Lifestyle Changes Help Keep That New Look After Liposuction

Lifestyle Changes Help Keep That New Look After Liposuction

by Dr. Diane Gibby • M.D., P.A., F.A.C.S

There are many reasons for having a liposuction procedure. For some women, all the exercise and dieting in the world cannot rid them of unwanted fatty deposits commonly found in the thighs, hips and abdomen. For others, loose skin in the buttocks, thighs or neck are problem areas. Although it is not a substitute for exercise or healthy eating habits, liposuction provides women with the option of removing those excess fatty deposits. While liposuction can help you obtain the look you want, it is important to maintain that look with proper health, nutrition, and exercise. Some of the most popular liposuction procedures today are the UAL (UltraSonic Assisted) Liposuction procedure and the Tumescent technique. Each are typically performed on an outpatient basis. The best candidates should be in good health and have realistic expectations of the procedure. The most frequently treated areas in women include the waistline, abdomen, outer thighs, inner thighs, buttocks, knees, ankles and neckline. The cosmetic success of liposuction relies on removing inches rather than pounds. Little weight is actually removed, yet dramatic results may be obtained. After the procedure, the patient’s satisfaction with her new look and dedication to maintaining that look are most important. Following the procedure, home rest is necessary for the first several days, after which a light work schedule may be resumed. The surgeon may recommend wearing a tight- fitting garment, similar to a girdle, after surgery for up to six weeks. These garments help promote healing by reducing swelling and bruising. Exercise is also encouraged, such as a brisk walk a few days after the procedure. Increased exercise is recommended as the healing process continues as part of an overall healthy lifestyle. If the patient gains weight after the procedure, the size of the individual fat cells will increase. Too much weight gain may mask the benefits of the liposuction procedure. Toning and aerobic exercises are also an important part of a good post operative regimen. Patients should strive to maintain or achieve their ideal weight following surgery. This can be accomplished with a healthy, well-balanced diet and exercise. It is important to remember that liposuction is a surgical procedure. Your body must heal before you see the full benefits. However, within two to three weeks, you should see results with the full effect completely evident within six months to a year after surgery, in some cases. Before proceeding with liposuction, it is important to thoroughly understand the options available for body contouring surgery, and how as a patient, you can improve and maintain your surgical result with lifestyle changes, if necessary. You should discuss any questions or concerns you have with your doctor before proceeding with any surgical procedure. The Women’s Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery is one of the few centers in the D/FW Metroplex offering the new UAL procedures for women.

For a DFW area plastic surgeon see Dr. Diane Gibby at http://www.drgibby.com