Liposuction remains one of the most commonly performed body contouring procedures in the United States, and for good reason. It is the most effective available method for permanently removing localized fat deposits that have resisted diet and exercise. At Richards Cosmetic Surgery in Las Vegas, Dr. Bryson Richards provides liposuction to patients seeking a more sculpted, balanced body contour.
What Is Liposuction?
Liposuction (also called lipoplasty or suction-assisted lipectomy) uses a thin cannula inserted through small incisions to suction fat cells from beneath the skin. The fat cells that are removed do not grow back, which is why liposuction results are long-lasting. However, remaining fat cells can still enlarge with weight gain, which is why maintaining a stable weight after liposuction is important for preserving results.
What Areas Can Be Treated?
Liposuction can be used to remove unwanted fat from virtually any area of the body where localized fat accumulates. The most commonly treated areas include:
Abdomen and Flanks
The lower abdomen and love handles are the most requested liposuction areas. Fat here tends to be diet-resistant, particularly in women, and responds well to liposuction when skin elasticity is adequate.
Thighs
Inner thigh fat creates rubbing and chafing and is notoriously resistant to diet. Outer thigh (saddlebag) fat can make the lower body appear disproportionate. Both areas respond well to liposuction.
Back and Bra Area
Fat rolls along the back and bra line are a common concern, particularly in women. Liposuction in this area creates a smoother, less bulky back and flanks.
Arms
The upper inner arm is a common area of concern. Liposuction here removes fatty tissue, though patients with significant skin laxity may need to consider an arm lift for the best result.
Hips and Buttocks
Selective fat removal from around the hips and outer buttocks can improve the overall lower body silhouette.
What Liposuction Is Not
Understanding what liposuction cannot do is just as important as knowing what it can:
- Liposuction is not a weight loss procedure, it removes localized fat, not significant overall body weight
- Liposuction cannot tighten loose or excess skin, patients with poor skin elasticity may see worsened skin laxity after fat removal
- Liposuction cannot repair abdominal muscle separation (diastasis recti), this requires a tummy tuck
- Liposuction is not a substitute for healthy lifestyle habits, it works best in patients who are already at or near their goal weight
Who Is the Best Liposuction Candidate?
- Adults at or near their goal weight with localized, stubborn fat deposits
- Patients with good skin elasticity who will retract well after fat removal
- Non-smokers in good overall health with realistic expectations
- Individuals who understand liposuction as a contouring tool, not a weight loss solution
Recovery from Liposuction
Most liposuction patients return to desk work within five to seven days. Compression garments are worn for four to six weeks. Strenuous activity resumes at three to four weeks. Swelling resolves progressively over two to three months, with the final refined contour becoming visible at approximately six months.
Dr. Richards provides liposuction and body contouring to patients in Las Vegas, Henderson, Summerlin, and surrounding Nevada communities. To discuss your goals, schedule a consultation at richardscosmeticsurgery.com.
Contact Las Vegas Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Richards to Schedule a Consultation
If you would like more information on cosmetic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada plastic surgeon, Dr. Bryson Richards please contact us at 702.870.7070
Taking new patients from Las Vegas, Bullhead City, Laughlin, Pahrump, Mesquite NV and surrounding areas.