Are you frustrated with stubborn fat that won’t go away, no matter how hard you try? Bathing suit season may be coming to a close, but that doesn’t mean you can’t invest in a bit of body sculpting to get the silhouette you crave. If you are particularly concerned about loose skin or extra weight around your waist and hips, you may be interested in the results of a recent study.
According to a press release from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), one surgeon has found that a combination of liposuction and abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, can produce excellent results. Plastic surgeon and ASPS member Dr. Eric Swanson of Kansas shared his experiences performing what he refers to as “lipoabdominoplasty” to remove love handles and other fatty deposits while tightening loose, sagging skin along the belly. Dr. Swanson revealed new techniques that have been devised to reduce the risks of both procedures while maximizing the benefits.
Understanding Liposuction Techniques
Liposuction is often at the top of the list when it comes to popular plastic surgery procedures, and for good reason. It’s a tried-and-true method for body sculpting—removing stubborn fat from beneath the skin with a suction device called a cannula. Some surgeons, such as Dr. Sheila Nazarian and Dr. Suzanne Trott, have embraced advanced techniques like power-assisted liposuction. This method uses a specialized cannula that vibrates rapidly, allowing for more precise fat removal and improved body contouring. As Dr. Trott explains, “With power-assisted liposuction, you’re sculpting the body and not having to worry about getting the fat out at the same time. Without it, you’re so focused on getting the fat out that you can get too close to the skin, which will cause indents.” This technique helps deliver smoother, more natural-looking results.
High Satisfaction and Lower Risks
“In a previous study […] last year, Dr. Swanson reported high patient satisfaction rates and improved self-esteem in patients undergoing liposuction and/or abdominoplasty – especially the combined technique. The new results show that, with attention to some basic measures to reduce risk, excellent cosmetic results are achieved with a low complication rate,” the release states.
Whether you’re interested in flattening your stomach, targeting love handles, or seeking an overall slimmer silhouette, modern advances in both liposuction and tummy tucks offer more refined and safer options than ever before.
How to Get (and Keep) Your Best Body Sculpting Results
So, you’ve done your research and you’re ready to take the plunge with body sculpting—what next? Achieving your ideal silhouette isn’t just about the procedure itself; it’s also about the steps you take before and after surgery to make sure your efforts—and investment—reap long-term rewards. Here are a few tried-and-true pointers to pave the way for looking your best.
Choose a Qualified Surgeon
First things first: Trust your body only to a trained, board-certified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Lett in Nashville, TN. As tempting as it may be to chase a bargain, there’s no substitute for experience and credentials. Ask your surgeon about their training, how frequently they perform your chosen procedure, and request to see before-and-after photos. It’s your body; you deserve the best care possible.
Gather a Few Opinions
Don’t be shy about consulting multiple surgeons. Comparing recommendations and surgical styles will help you make an informed decision and put your mind at ease. Most reputable surgeons expect their patients to do a little comparison shopping before committing.
Plan Your Timing
You might be eager to jet off to the beach with your new shape, but patience is key. Swelling and bruising are normal parts of recovery—so schedule your procedure well before any big events or vacations. Most people start seeing their final results within a few months, so plan ahead and give your body time to heal.
Compression is Crucial
A hidden hero of post-surgical recovery? Compression garments. Wearing these snug, supportive pieces helps to reduce swelling and minimize bruising, and they can even decrease the risk of complications. Your surgeon and their staff will advise you on proper fit and duration, so don’t skip this important step.
Maintain Healthy Lifestyle Habits
Remember, body sculpting isn’t a free pass to ignore nutrition or exercise. Staying active and eating well after your recovery not only helps preserve your new curves but also boosts your overall health. Even light activity, like daily walking, can make a noticeable difference.
Taking these steps to heart will help ensure your results are just as stunning a year from now as they are the day your bandages come off.
Lipo and Tummy Tuck in Middle Tennessee
Are you interested in either of these procedures – or both? Then contact Dr. Lett and his experienced staff at the Lett Center in Lebanon, Tennessee, today. Dr. Lett is a board-certified surgeon who can help you obtain the figure you desire without putting yourself at undue risk.