Liposuction

liposuctionIf you have localized pockets of fat on the body that have not reduced despite dieting and exercise programs, you might benefit from liposuction. This surgical procedure can remove the unwanted fat and recontour the treated areas so that they are slimmer and smoother.

Liposuction can be done on most areas of the body, but it is most often used to sculpt the chin and neck, abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, knees, calves, and upper arms.

Dr. Ledding has years of experience performing liposuction for his patients. No two patients are the same, however, so he will spend time with you during your initial consultation and examination to discuss your options and his recommended surgical plan for you.

Who is a Good Candidate for Liposuction?

Liposuction is best for people who are near their ideal weight. It is not a weight loss procedure and is for stubborn, localized pockets of fat.

Is Liposuction an Outpatient Procedure?

Liposuction is usually performed as an outpatient procedure with the patient under a local anesthetic and sedation. In some cases, general anesthesia may be necessary. You can go home the same day, provided someone is available to drive you.

What Incisions Are Used For Liposuction?

Incisions are made in the areas to be treated, and they are usually small (3-5mm) – just large enough to fit the cannula that is used for the procedure.

What Happens During Liposuction?

After the incisions are made, Dr. Ledding inserts a cannula, which is a small tube, into the treatment area. The cannula is attached to a suction device and moved in and out as it breaks up the fat and removes it.

The incisions are closed with sutures.

What Happens Immediately After Liposuction?

After some time spent in the recovery room following your surgery, your incisions will be dressed with bandages. Then, you may go home with instructions for after-care and an appointment set for a couple of days later for your first follow-up exam.

When Can I Return to Work After Liposuction?

Most people take seven to 14 days off from work, depending upon the extent of the surgery. You may resume exercise or sports activities in four to six weeks. If your occupation is physically demanding, you may need four to six weeks off work as well.

What Post-Operative Symptoms Can I Expect After Liposuction?

Your recovery will include some bruising, numbness, and pain for a couple of weeks. You can take prescription or non-prescription medications to ease you through this period. For most areas of the body, you must wear a compression garment for a short time to promote healing. Many will wear a layer of foam inside this garment to aid in achieving a smoother postoperative result.

Swelling takes a bit longer to resolve, gradually improving over a period of months. There are sutures that will be removed in about a week.

Are There Scars After Liposuction?

lipoThere are scars after liposuction, but Dr. Ledding will try to place them in discreet areas whenever possible. The incisions for liposuction are generally small, and the scars will fade and become less prominent in the months following your surgery. We will also provide strategies for healing the scars as quickly as possible.

What is SAFELipo?

This is a specific technique of liposuction that has been shown to provide a smoother end result or help smooth irregularities from previous surgeries and liposuction. Dr. Ledding has traveled out of the country to learn this procedure from its originator and bring it back to Saskatchewan. He now uses this technique in most of his liposuction cases. For more information, visit the SAFELipo website.

Contact our office for a consultation to discuss how liposuction with Dr. Ledding can help you look better.