Liposuction in St. Louis

Refined Results

Liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure that uses small hidden incisions to insert a thin metal wand (cannula) under the skin and remove that unwanted, stubborn fat. Areas patients often request liposuction for include the neck, back of the arms, chest, abdomen, flanks, upper and lower back, inner and outer thighs. A variety of different cannulas may be used varying from 2mm to 5mm in thickness depending on the area being treated and the volume of fat that needs to be removed. Our surgeons use a variety of different liposuction techniques including suction-assisted, power-assisted, and SAFElipo to truly optimize the contouring to each specific area. The end result is a slimmer, better-shaped you!

Liposuction can be performed alone, or it can be combined with other procedures such as a face/neck lift, tummy tuck, and mommy makeover. Liposuction is not a substitute for traditional weight loss, diet, and exercise. However, it can specifically target those stubborn areas and unsightly bulges you just can’t seem to get rid of. Liposuction is more consistent and can slim down larger areas than other non-invasive techniques.

The best candidates for liposuction are close to their desired body weight, with areas of excess fullness but without sagging skin. Areas to be treated should have youthful, unbunched skin without stretch marks. During your consultation, our surgeons will expertly assess each area and determine if you will get amazing results with liposuction alone, or if your desired look may be enhanced with additional excision techniques. Measurements may be taken for postoperative compression garment sizing.

Before & After

Patient #3370

Before:

After:

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How to Prepare for Your Liposuction Surgery

Smoking and all forms of nicotine should be stopped at least 2 weeks prior to any surgery.
This includes e-cigarettes, patches, and gum.

Any medications and supplements which cause an increased risk of bleeding should also be stopped 2 weeks prior to any major surgery. Please see our list of medications and supplements to avoid. As always, make sure to check with your doctor before stopping any medications.

Liposuction Surgical Techniques

Our surgeons will make tiny incisions hidden in natural creases or undergarment lines. They will infuse a medicated fluid into the area being treated to help minimize pain and bruising. The fat is then separated from the surrounding tissues and removed by a thin metal cannula on suction. Additional smoothing procedures may be performed on the remaining fat just underneath your skin. You will be placed in a special compression garment or elastic bandages that you can remove and shower in 24 hours, but will often be requested to wear at all times other than bathing for the next 4 weeks.

RECOVERY FROM LIPOSUCTION

You will see some immediate results the day following liposuction. However, residual fluid and swelling will be present that will make a dramatic decrease over the next 6-8 weeks. Your final contour will take shape over 3-6 months. This will be enhanced by wearing your compression garment as requested, typically throughout the day and night other than bathing for the first 4 weeks. Chesterfield Plastic Surgery will place you into the correct Stage 1 liposuction compression garment immediately after your surgery. Additional garments can be purchased if you desire, including Stage II garments with lesser compression for use 4-8 weeks after your surgery. You will have soreness in areas treated for a few days to weeks, but typically not significant pains. You will have some watery drainage from your incision sites the first few days after surgery and may need to frequently change absorbent pads during that time. You should be up and walking the evening of surgery, and back to more normal exercise routines in about 2 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions about Liposuction

A: The amount of skin retraction after deflating the fat volume underneath will depend on the remaining skin elasticity. Younger skin and areas without stretch marks tend to shrink better than older, loose, or thin skin. Our surgeons will specifically evaluate and discuss this with you during your consultation. If the skin appears too loose or inelastic, alternative procedures to help you achieve your desired look will be recommended

A: Liposuction is not an alternative for traditional methods of weight loss including diet and exercise. It is considered a contouring technique to help enhance your shape and remove those stubborn areas. Most patients do not lose a significant amount of weight after liposuction.

A: No. Once the fat cells are removed, they are gone for good. However, there is always a layer of fat cells left under your skin to minimize contour irregularities. If you gain a significant amount of weight, later on, your body will distribute excess weight in these and other areas. Liposuction results are best maintained through regular exercise and a healthy diet. You will want to maintain a stable weight and protect your investment!