Body Cosmetic Surgery

Liposuction

First Step

Your first meeting with Dr. Spies will help determine if you are a good candidate for liposuction. In general, the best candidates are:

• Of normal weight
• Have firm, elastic skin
• Have pockets of excess fat in certain areas
• Are physically healthy
• Of any age

Types of Liposuction

During the past 10 years, liposuction has benefited from several new refinements and variations. You do not need to be an expert on these techniques. Dr. Spies will help decide which is the most appropriate treatment for your needs.

Techniques:

• Fluid injection: a medicated solution is injected into areas to help remove fat
• The tumescent technique: large amounts of fluid are injected and fluid contains anesthetic so additional anesthesia may not be necessary
• The super-wet technique: the amount of fluid injected is equal to the amount of fat to be removed
• Ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty (UAL): uses special cannula that produces ultrasonic energy that explodes the walls of fat cells, liquefying the fat

Good News
Liposuction removes those stubborn areas of fat that don't respond to traditional weight-loss methods. You may find that you are more comfortable in a wide variety of clothes and more at ease with your body. By eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise, you can help to maintain your new shape.

Abdominoplasty or "Tummy Tuck"

A "tummy tuck" is a major surgical procedure in which the surgeon draws underlying muscle and tissue together and stitches them, thereby narrowing the waistline and strengthening the abdominal wall. Abdominal skin is drawn down and excess is removed.

If you are a man or woman who is in relatively good shape but are bothered by abdominal fat or loose skin that won't respond to diet or exercise, this surgery may be for you. If your fat deposits are limited to the area below the navel, you may require a less complex procedure called a partial abdominoplasty. Another option may be to have a tummy tuck in conjunction with liposuction to remove fat deposits from the hips for a better body contour. In any case, Dr. Spies will help you decide on the procedure that is right for you.