Exploring the Varied Possibilities of Liposuction
There are hundreds of different plastic surgery procedures being practiced today, designed to address literally thousands of different concerns, but few are as versatile as liposuction. In 2014 alone, more than 200,000 men and women underwent liposuction procedures, often as a complement to other cosmetic plastic surgery procedures of the face and body. Many have found that liposuction can be an excellent way to remove areas of stubborn fat from the hips, thighs, and midsection, but the procedure can actually also be used to selectively target a number of other specific areas as well, subtly helping to improve the overall appearance of the body and face.
Sculpting the Chin and Neck
As we age, the skin starts to lose elasticity, and as a result, fat deposits underneath the skin begin to slide downward, pooling in lower areas of the body. When this occurs in the face, it creates the appearance of sagging jowls and a double chin, both of which can make a patient look prematurely aged. In the early stages, before more comprehensive procedures like a face lift or neck lift may be necessary, liposuction can help slim the jawline, chin, and upper neck, making you look thinner and taking years off your appearance.
Reducing the Breasts
Overly large breasts are not only uncomfortable and inconvenient, but can also potentially cause health problems. However, many of the women who might benefit from breast reduction surgery are dissuaded by the possibility of scarring in this sensitive area. Liposuction can remove small amounts of fatty tissue from the breasts and nearby areas of the chest and back, allowing women to achieve a more slender and sculpted physique without the need for full breast reduction surgery. Similarly, the procedure can also be used on men who suffer from gynecomastia, the development of male breasts that may accompany age-related hormonal changes. It is important to note, however, that in both men and women it may be necessary to surgically remove a small amount of breast tissue in order to achieve the best possible results.
Shaping Up the Calves
Just like in the face, gravity and time can conspire to cause fat to slide downward in the body and deposit in the lower extremities, particularly in the area where the calves meet the ankles. When this occurs, “cankles” are the result, turning what was once a smooth transition into an unsightly bulge. Liposuction of the lower legs can help restore the shapely lines of the leg to a more youthful and graceful appearance.
While liposuction is safe and effective for eliminating stubborn fat deposits from specific areas, it is not suitable for more generalized weight loss and should never become a substitute for a healthy diet and exercise program. Many patients seek out other body contouring procedures, like Dual CoolSculpting® or even post-bariatric surgery, after undergoing significant weight loss in order to finalize their results. If you are interested in learning more about any of the cosmetic plastic surgery procedures we perform, or about how the variety of financing options, including Alphaeon® and CareCredit®, that we provide can help you, please contact Atlanta Plastic Surgery, P.C. at one of our Atlanta, Alpharetta, Cumming, or Newnan offices. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for the latest plastic surgery news.
