Body Contouring (Liposuction)

Liposuction is particularly well-suited for women and men who are of relatively normal weight but have isolated pockets of fat that cause certain areas of their body to appear disproportionate. These localized fat deposits may sometimes be an inherited trait and typically do not respond to dieting or exercise. Liposuction is often the only way to eliminate them.

While it is possible to undergo liposuction at almost any age, you will obtain the best results if your skin still has enough elasticity to achieve a smooth contour following fat removal. When skin is inelastic, as in some older patients, it may not redrape well and a skin tightening procedure may be necessary.

Because of individual physical factors, not everyone will achieve the same results from liposuction. Dr. Stewart will take into consideration your unique characteristics in determining the most effective treatment. During the consultation, you will be asked to point out the exact areas which you would like to see improved. This will help Dr. Stewart to understand your expectations and determine whether they can realistically be achieved.

Dr. Stewart will examine your troubled areas and take photographs for your medical record. He will consider such factors such as how much you currently weigh and whether you plan to lose or gain weight in the future. Dr. Stewart may ask you about the effects of prior weight loss on the appearance of those areas which you have indicated for contouring. He will assess the elasticity of your skin and estimate the amount of fat to be removed for optimal results.

Return to Work

You may be able to return to work in just a few days. In many instance, you can resume most of your normal activities within one or two weeks and begin some form of exercise soon after. The timing of your recovery depends largely on the extent of your surgery.

Understanding Risks

The subject of risks and potential complications of surgery is best discussed on a personal basis between you and Dr. Stewart, or with a staff member.

Some of the potential complications that may be discussed with you include bleeding, infection and reactions to anesthesia. Blood accumulations under the skin are possible, but these normally resolve themselves and rarely require removal. While numbness of the skin following liposuction is almost always temporary, it is possible for some lack of sensation to persist or for skin discoloration to appear in treated areas. Contour irregularities including depressions or wrinkling of the skin can result in some patients, but treatments are usually available to help minimize these problems if they occur.

How should I prepare for surgery?

If you are a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking well in advance of surgery. Aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs can cause increased bleeding, so you should avoid taking these medications for a period of time before surgery. Dr. Stewart will provide you with additional preoperative instructions at your consultation.

Depending on the extent of your surgery you may need to donate blood prior to surgery. You will go under a general anesthesia, therefore you will need someone to drive you home afterwards and to stay with you at least the first night.