Every year in the U.S. liposuction is one of the top three aesthetic procedures performed. That’s because no matter what kind of shape you’re in, the human body is adept at storing fat in areas such as the lower abdomen, the thighs, even along the bra line area. 

But some people assume liposuction can be used as a weight-loss tool, akin to bariatric surgery. Ah, but that’s not what liposuction with Dr. Barrera is all about. Liposuction is for body contouring, not weight loss. In fact, removing too much fat from a person in a single surgery is dangerous. 

But if you have pockets of unwanted fat you’d like to see go the way of the passenger pigeon, liposuction with Dr. Barrera is the way to do it. 

Would liposuction help me? 

If you have areas on your body where the fat simply won’t go away, no matter what you do, liposuction could be a good procedure for you. As mentioned above, it’s not for weight loss — liposuction is meant to only remove isolated pockets of fat, not broad areas. 

Liposuction could be a good fit for you if: 

•     You have firm skin.
•     Your skin still has good elasticity.
•     You are within 15% of your ideal body weight.
•     Your weight has been consistent for a length of time.

Liposuction can remove fat in the abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, inner knees, chest, cheeks, chin, calves, and ankles. 

The procedure 

Liposuction is an outpatient procedure with the patient under only local anesthesia. Dr. Barrera uses the tumescent technique, but also sometimes adds ultrasound or vibration from the cannula to assist in making the fat easier to remove. These are known as ultrasound-assisted and power-assisted liposuction. The technique used depends on the patient and you will discuss your options with Dr. Barrera during your consultation. 

Dr. Barrera begins by making several very small incisions in the target area. He then injects a lidocaine solution into the area to make the procedure more comfortable and to make the fat expand and become firmer. Next, he inserts the cannula into the incisions, moving it with a horizontal motion to break up the fat deposits that are then suctioned out by the cannula. 

Recovery and results 

After your liposuction, treated areas will be wrapped to help reduce swelling, bruising, and pain. Compression garments or elastic bandages will then be worn over the treated areas for three to four weeks. This minimizes swelling and helps your skin and tissue adapt to their new contours. You will have a fair amount of bruising and swelling for a week or so. Depending on if you had one area or multiple areas treated, you can typically return to work in two to three days, a week with multiple areas. 

Want to show those stubborn pockets of fat who’s the boss? Call Dr. Barrera at (713) 468-5200 and set up a consultation for liposuction.