What is Liposuction?
Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery to remove unwanted fat deposits from different parts of the body. It was first developed in 1977 by Dr. Gerard Illouz in Paris and introduced in the U.S. in 1982. Today, it’s the most popular plastic surgery procedure, designed to eliminate fat with minimal scarring.
Over the years, the technology has improved, making the procedure safer and more effective. Dr. Rodriguez’s technique uses thin 3mm cannulas, which provide smoother results. With his method, patients usually don’t need lymphatic massages because the results are even from the start.
Areas of Liposuction
Liposuction can be performed in several areas, including:
- Abdomen
- Flanks (love handles)
- Upper back
- Scapular
- Arms
- Neck
- Outer and inner thighs
- Inner knees
What is Lipo 360?
Lipo 360 targets fat around the entire waistline, including the abdomen, flanks, and lower back. The term “360” refers to the full-circle approach used to sculpt the body, creating a slimmer, more contoured appearance.
What problems does a Liposuction address?
How do I get rid of these saddle bags?
Liposuction is ideal for people who have stubborn fat that doesn't respond to diet or exercise. Common areas include the abdomen, flanks, arms, and thighs.
However, liposuction is not a treatment for obesity, loose skin, or poor muscle tone. If you have poor skin elasticity, other procedures like a Tummy tuck may be better suited for you.
How is the Liposuction procedure performed?
Dr. Rodriguez uses the Tumescent technique with thin 3mm cannulas for safety, precision, and the best results. Here’s how the procedure works:
- Tumescent solution: Before the fat is removed, a tumescent solution containing lidocaine and epinephrine is injected to numb the area and reduce blood loss.
- Suction method: Both manual and power-assisted suction remove the fat. Thin cannulas are inserted through small incisions to remove fat evenly.
- Cannula size: Thin 3mm cannulas ensure smoother results and more precise contouring. There is no need for post-op massages because the thin cannulas minimize tissue damage and fluid collection.
What Type of Anesthesia is Used?
Dr. Rodriguez took time to explain everything and answer ALL of my questions. He was very attentive to the results I wanted to achieve.
The type of anesthesia depends on the size of the treated area. For small areas, local anesthesia is used. For larger areas, IV sedation is preferred, which offers faster recovery and reduces risk compared to general anesthesia.
Extraction of Fat with Thin Cannulas
Once the area is numbed with the tumescent solution, I insert thin 3mm cannulas through tiny incisions to remove the fat. These tiny incisions are only 1/4" - 1/2" long and they are placed very strategically into hidden areas such as the buttock fold. In nearly all patients, these tiny incisions close completely and do not leave any type of mark or scar.
I use very precise extraction pressures. Fat is collected in 1-liter medical containers. Each liter holds 1000cc of fat.
How Much Fat is Removed?
Dr. Rodriguez typically removes 4-5 liters of fat in one session. Thanks to the tumescent solution, even large quantities of fat can be removed safely. The current limit for fat removal is 5 liters per session, set by QuadA, a certification agency for Surgery Centers. This 5-liter rule went into effect in 2014.
How Much Weight Do I Lose?
The weight loss depends on the area treated. You can read more about this at How much fat is taken out during Liposuction?
Here are average fat amount removed per area:
- Stomach: 2 pounds
- Love handles: 1-2 pounds
- Inner thighs: 1 pound
- Outer thighs: up to 2 pounds
- Upper back: up to 1.5 pounds
- Upper arms: up to 1 pound
What is the Importance of Thin Cannulas?
Using thin 3 mm cannulas allows for finer contouring similar to using a small paintbrush for more detailed work. While it takes longer to remove fat with smaller cannulas, the results are smoother, making the extra time in the operating room worthwhile.
What are the preoperative requirements?
Before your procedure:
- Stop smoking at least 2 weeks prior.
- Avoid aspirin and herbal supplements for two weeks
- Make sure your BMI is below 35 kg/m².
- Schedule a medical clearance within 30 days of your surgery
- Attend a pre-op appointment to review your surgical plan
- Fill all prescriptions
Make sure your surgeon is board-certified and your surgery facility is accredited. Dr. Rodriguez’s facility is accredited by both QuadA and Medicare, ensuring high safety standards.
What is Liposuction Post-Op recovery like?
After surgery, you’ll wear a custom compression garment to promote healing.
Recovery Timeline:- Day 1-5: Rest and wear the compression garment at all times. No showers.
- Day 5: Follow-up visit to remove the garment and pads. You can now shower.
- Week 2-4: Continue wearing the garment for 12 hours a day and slowly resume activities.
Do I Need Drains or Massages?
No. Dr. Rodriguez’s technique with thin cannulas prevents fluid build-up, eliminating the need for drains or post-op massages.
What are the risks and possible complications?
Liposuction is generally safe. Minor complications can include contour irregularity or fluid collection.
More serious risks, although rare, include infection or pulmonary embolism. Dr. Rodriguez’s technique helps minimize these risks.
How much does Liposuction cost?
Liposuction costs for 2024 are as follows:
| Type of Liposuction | 2024 Liposuction Prices |
|---|---|
| Jawline and Neck (local anesthesia ) | approx. $3,300 |
| One area (IV anesthesia ) | $4,000 to $5,000 |
| Lipo 360: abdomen and flanks | approx. $7,300 - $8,000 |
| 5 Liter Lipo (Maximum fat removed from torso) | approx. $8,900 |
Total costs include the surgeon's fee, operating room fee, anesthesia fee, and post-op garments.
Can I finance my Liposuction?
Yes, financing options are available to help manage the cost of your liposuction. Call us at 410-404-8100 or see our financing page for more information.
I had no nausea or vomiting afterward, and the pain was minimal. It has been 5 weeks and I see great definition in my waist, my stomach is flat and my bra rolls are gone!!
Ready to explore what's possible? I invite you to schedule a personal consultation, where we can talk about your goals, answer your questions, and create a plan that's uniquely yours.
Schedule Your Consultation Today!
Together, we'll find the perfect approach to help you look and feel your best.
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Board Certified Plastic Surgery, ASPS Member
NOTICE
Patients depicted in our before and after galleries have provided their written consent to display their photos online. Every patient is unique, and surgical results may vary. Please contact us if you have any questions.