Liposuction is a popular type of plastic surgery and surgeons can perform it on its own or combined with other procedures. Its purpose is to remove stubborn pockets of fats that no amount of healthy eating and physical activity can get rid of. Individuals often seek liposuction for their inner and outer thighs.
This body contouring procedure helps enhance your appearance for greater symmetry and definition. When you attend your initial consultation with your plastic surgeon, they conduct a thorough physical examination and review of your medical history. They can then determine whether you are a good candidate for liposuction or if they should recommend alternative solutions.
#1 Your General Health Matters
An important thing to keep in mind is that liposuction is not a weight loss treatment. Plastic surgeons recommend that you have already reached your desired weight by the time you consider liposuction. Being at a healthy and stable weight can help maximize the results of your procedure and help you keep them in the long term.
Eating a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity are also important before and after liposuction. If you have loose skin, your provider may suggest a thigh lift in addition to your liposuction to achieve effective body contouring.
If you use tobacco products, you should quit at least two weeks before your surgery, or earlier depending on your surgeon’s instructions. During your first consultation, they also make sure that you do not have any medical conditions that could interfere with the surgery or the recovery process.
#2 Liposuction Does Not Treat Cellulite
Although cellulite is a common concern that affects various tissues, including connective ones, to create a dimpling look. Since liposuction only impacts fat cells, it does not change the appearance of cellulite. However, your provider may use additional treatments such as some laser procedures, to boost your body’s natural production of collagen.
Similarly, liposuction cannot treat stretch marks because they are scar tissues, and removing the fat underneath does not change the way your stretch mark looks.
#3 Various Types of Liposuction Procedures Exist
Traditional liposuction is a plastic surgery that your doctor can perform under local or general anesthesia depending on how much fat they need to remove. The incisions are small and in discreet locations to minimize their look after your recovery, so you can confidently flaunt your legs.
Thanks to technological development, additional liposuction options now exist. They can involve ultrasound energy like with VASER. This type of equipment disrupts fat cells without affecting nerves and blood vessels and can be especially effective if you had prior liposuction.
Some other liposuction methods use radio frequency assisted lipolysis. BodyTite and Renuvion/J-Plasma combine a specific fluid injection in the treated area before leveraging energy devices and suction for lasting results.
#4 Light Physical Activity Supports Your Postop Recovery
You can usually expect one to two weeks of recovery after liposuction. This may depend on the extent of the treated area and how much fat the procedure removed. If you get liposuction on both inner and outer thighs, healing usually takes a couple of weeks.
While rest is important to make sure that your body recoups from the procedure, engaging in light physical activity can make a positive difference in your healing. Stimulating blood flow is important and walking is an effective way to do so.
You should avoid high-impact workouts, but making time to stretch your legs and go for short walks every day can help prevent the formation of blood clots. If you are concerned about discomfort or pain, talk to your doctor about possible medication for the first few days after your thigh liposuction.
Are you looking for a certified plastic surgeon for thigh liposuction? Call West Coast Plastic Surgery Center today at (805) 978-8545 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation in Oxnard, CA!