Frequently Asked Questions
How many treatments will I need?
For most patients, typically only one treatment is required. The session may last from 45 minutes to one hour for each area being treated.
Do I have to do anything post-treatment?
After the treatment, you will have minimal pain or bruising. We recommend 1-2 days rest but some patients are able to return to work immediately (the so-called Lunch hour lipo).
Can Liposculpture treat cellulite?
The procedure will improve the body's shape and may improve cellulite to a certain degree, tightening saggy skin.
When can I expect to see results?
Results can be seen immediately with continued improvement over several months.
Does Liposculpture produce lasting results?
Yes. Fat cells do not reproduce in the body. Once they are removed, there is only the problem of expanding the remaining cells due to food intake.
Does Liposculpture respond well to all skin types?
Yes! Liposculpture works on people with darker skin. The laser is below the skin targeting the fat cells and the underside of the dermis. The melanocytes are NOT affected. Many men and African-Americans have a tougher and more fibrosis fat that may be more difficult to shape/sculpt with standard liposuction techniques. The use of Liposculpture minimizes any difference.
Can more than one area be treated in a single session? Yes. You may treat up to six areas, depending on the extent of correction. Speak to your cosmetic surgeon to find out more information.
What happens immediately following the procedure?
A special garment may be required to facilitate healing and compress the area. There may be some swelling and discomfort, but any pain is typically considered simply a dull ache. The rate of bruising, if any, is mild.
How long do I have to wait to go back to work?
If you don't need to exert too much physical effort at your job, you can go back the same or next day. For jobs that are more strenuous, consult your cosmetic surgeon for advice. Where there has been fat removal over larger areas you may be able to return to work after a weekend.
When will I see results?
The patient will look significantly smaller the day after surgery and continue to see dramatic improvement as the swelling wears off. Over a course of 6 weeks following a procedure, you'll be able to see dramatic improvements as swelling wears off. You can expect to see the final results in approximately 2-4 months. However, this depends on the extent of treatment and your health. Follow your cosmetic surgeon's instructions as closely as possible to ensure a quicker recovery.
How long do results last?
Results will last as long as you follow a healthy diet and exercise regimen, in which case is permanent.
Is it possible to repeat Liposculpture the same area of the body?
Yes, but patients must wait at least 3 months.
What are the risks and side effects of Liposculpture?
Like any procedure, Liposculpture also has its risks and side effects. These include bruising and/or discomfort, and mild pain.
What does the Liposculpture feel like?
The laser has a pleasantly warm feeling. The skin will be numbed causing you to sense some mild heat similar to the feeling of strong sun light.
By adding Liposculpture with traditional liposuction, is the recovery different?
Liposculpture recovery is much more rapid than traditional liposuction due to its much less invasive methods. Many patients return to work the next day.
What is the safety factor of Liposculpture?
Liposculpture is similar in safety to other laser treatments such as Thermage. With a skilled surgeon there is no risk of lymphatic problems related to the any liquefied fat. In addition there is no risk of damaging tissue.
What is the cost of Liposculpture?
The cost of Liposculpture ranges from the very smallest removal fat for a slight double chin to a more extensive abdominal fat removal. The cost can range anywhere from $2000 to $10,000. The cost depends on the areas of the body needing fat removal. You may wish to have several areas of fat pockets removed. For each area of the body there is usually a set fee. This can be discussed at the time of consultation.
What complications may occur?
Surgical complications of Liposculpture are quite rare. They are less than 1 percent. Like any surgical procedure, Liposculpture is associated with common side effects such as slight bruising, swelling, and numbness. Skin irregularities have been greatly reduced due to the very small cannulas that result in a more even and less traumatic reduction of fat.
Can fat reaccumulate in the contoured areas?
Fat cells that are permanently removed are thought not to multiply after puberty. As long as you do not gain excessive weight, the new silhouette is permanent. Fat removal however, does not allow for abuse of diet later. Patients, after Liposculpture, have sometimes found that areas treated by the laser retain the new contour whereas areas not treated have been new sites for fat development.
If you gain weight, the size of the individual fat cells will increase, and too much weight gain may mask the benefit of the procedure. The benefit will show when the extra weight is reduced. People with prior weight problems still have to watch their weight and exercise.
How are the benefits of Liposculpture measured?
The cosmetic success of Liposculpture relies on appearance and not scales. Though little fat may actually be removed, dramatic change in silhouette is often possible. The most important thing is your satisfaction and increased self-acceptance of the change in appearance.
Is Liposculpture right for me?
The best way to decide is to speak with a surgeon who has experience and specializes in surgical fat removal, as well as skills in facial and body sculpturing. It is important that the surgeon has sensibility and an artistic touch.
How will my skin look after surgery?
Stretch marks, dimples, and ripples may remain less than a 100% improved, Even so, a skilled surgeon can smooth out much of these distressing issues of body fat. In some cases, cellulite may appear visibly reduced. The changes following Liposculpture are analogous to those who expect losing an equal amount of fat in localized areas by dieting alone. Smaller cannulas allow the fibrous connections between the skin and body to remain. These contract or shorten during healing. For this reason, excessive skin folds are rare and many patients would have previously required surgical excision of skin alone.
Where will the procedure be performed?
Liposculpture is usually performed in a specially equipped in-office surgical suite. Liposculpture can be performed completely by local anesthetic and is most often performed with local anesthetics. Single areas, i.e., neck, abdomen, knees, outer thighs, etc., and multiple areas can be treated in a given session, depending on the number and size of the areas.
You will be given specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating, drinking, and taking certain vitamins and medications. Smokers should plan to stop smoking for a minimum of one to two weeks before surgery and during recovery. Smoking decreases circulation and interferes with proper healing resolution of swelling.
