People have been seeking to change and alter their appearance since the beginning of time. While it may seem like there is nothing new about cosmetic surgery, what is new is the methods that we now use and the capabilities we have. One of the most popular cosmetic procedures in modern times has been liposuction. Liposuction involves removing pockets of fat from problem area to help contour the body in a desired manner.
How does modern liposuction differ?
The first liposuction practices can be dated back to 1920, but the techniques did not gain traction until the 1970's. In the 1970's, two Italian-American cosmetic surgeons in Rome invented what can closely resemble modern liposuction techniques. They deemed their methods for body contouring the Illouz Method and tumescent technique. Their technique and procedure were soon used by other surgeons around the globe.
Nowadays, there are several methods available for fat removal, and procedures are often most effective for those that are generally healthy, stay in shape, and maintain a healthy diet. The persistent areas of fat are the ones best reduced through liposuction. Modern liposuction should not be used as a weight loss treatment, since after the fat is removed, the body will try to gain it back to stay in balance. This could mean that patients who don't watch their weight after liposuction may gain weight and get bulges of fat in other areas of the body.
Laser liposuction is helpful to induce skin tightening and treat cellulite. Ultrasonic liposuction is helpful to break up thicker fat. Power liposuction adds vibration to the procedure to make it faster and less stressful. Some patients may also be candidates for CoolSculpting, which is an FDA approved way to eliminate fat without surgery, needles, or downtime.
For anyone seeking to undergo liposuction, the technique matters as much as the experience of the surgeon that performs the procedure. Technologies continue to shape and evolve, with each claiming to be better than the last, but the only thing that remains constant is the need of a skilled surgeon to perform the procedure. Some doctors learn to do liposuction late in their career to get on the popularity bandwagon. Some have no real training or experience and are not even surgeons. With the experienced hand of a board certified plastic surgeon, liposuction treatment can be performed safely and with great results in the right patients. Dr. Gorodisky is a board certified plastic surgeon, call his office for a free consultation to discuss your body contouring options including liposuction.