When diet and exercise haven’t succeeded in removing stubborn fat, it may be time to consider receiving liposuction. This in-office procedure helps to remove fat and contour the body and stands as the most frequently performed cosmetic procedure in the United States. Tumescent liposuction involves injecting a large amount of dilute anesthesia into tiny incisions at the treatment area, typically the abdomen or flanks. This allows the entire treatment area to safely become numb and allows us to perform the procedure while you are awake. The entire procedure is done in the office and takes about 6 hours from start to finish.
What does tumescent liposuction treat?
Tumescent liposuction can remove fat from nearly any part of the body. This includes the ankles, calves, outer thighs, hips, flanks, neck, face, breast, chin, buttocks, and stomach. It is also effective for the removal of lipomas, a harmless form of fatty tumor, and to reduce the size of enlarged breasts.
How long is the downtime?
The downtime for tumescent liposuction is typically 2-3 days. During this time, you may feel more tired and groggy than usual, and you may notice the anesthesia drain out of the small incisions where it was injected. These incisions will heal on their own over the course of a few weeks. Since the anesthesia we use contains epinephrine, there is minimal bleeding both during and after surgery.
What will I need to do prior to treatment?
We will plan to see you for consultation prior to your treatment. At this time, we will obtain a detailed history and order labs which you will need to have drawn 2 weeks prior to your procedure. You should plan to wear loose fitting clothing and have someone drive you the day of your procedure.
When will I see results?
Immediately after the procedure, you will be swollen due to the anesthesia that we inject. As the anesthesia drains out and the swelling improves over the first couple of weeks, you will start to notice results. It can take up to 6 months for the full effects to become apparent.
If you think liposuction may be the answer to your cosmetic concerns, call our office at 404-513-6372. You’ll be connected with our friendly staff, who will schedule you an appointment with one of our doctors, such as Dr. Murad Alam and Dr. Simon Yoo. On the date of your appointment, you will make your way to 676 N St Clair St, Suite 1600, Chicago, IL 60611. You’ll want to arrive up to 15 minutes early to ensure all your paperwork is in order prior to the appointment.
