Liposuction was initially introduced in the late 1970’s by a French Gynecologist. American Plastic Surgeons visited France and the technique was brought and further refined in the United States. Since this is an effective and safe technique (with current modifications) it has stood the test of time and the results are reproducible.
The current technique involves making small stab incisions next to the area of liposuction and infiltrating a solution containing salt water, local pain medication (xylocaine) and epinephrine. The purpose of the solution is to blow up the fat for easier removal, pain control and to minimize bruising and bleeding (due to the epinephrine). The fat is then aspirated with specialized instruments designed specifically for this procedure.
Although fat can be removed from any patient, the ideal candidate is at or near their ideal body weight and has localized areas of fat collection which are resistant to diet and exercise.
Studies have shown liposuction can remove as much as 85% of fat cells, which means out of every 100 fat cells, 15 remain in the body. Liposuction, therefore, is not a substitute for continued diet and exercise. With weight gain, the remaining fat cells will become enlarged, off-setting the final result.
The most common areas for liposuction are the neck, male breast (gynecomastia), abdomen, flanks (love handles), inner and outer thighs, and inner knees.
Currently, newer procedures are being marketed as an alternative to liposuction. These include mesotherapy and laser-assisted liposuction (Smart Lipo). These techniques have not been proven as safe, effective or reproducible as traditional liposuction. I have provided the links from American Society of Plastic Surgery regarding these procedures. Since these techniques currently are not endorsed, I do not perform them.
I have attached before and after photos to illustrate the effectiveness of this procedure.
Michael A. Jazayeri, M.D. is a board certified plastic surgeon in Santa Ana and member of American Society of Plastic Surgeons. His office is centrally located in Orange County, in the city of Santa Ana.
To schedule a complimentary consultation, please call
(714) 834-0101.