Can liposuction from U Plastic Surgery + Aesthetics give you the shape you’ve always wanted? It can if you follow Dr. Tag’s instructions and use it together with other shaping strategies. It’s frustrating when fat refuses to budge, even after you’ve hit the treadmill, counted your calories, and done countless crunches. Liposuction in Owings Mills offers a straightforward way to tackle those areas. By removing fat cells from targeted locations, our patients in the greater Baltimore area can finally see the slimmer, smoother contour they’ve hoped for.
What Exactly Is Liposuction?
Liposuction is a surgical process that removes fat deposits in areas like your belly, thighs, arms, or chin. Dr. Tag uses a narrow tube called a cannula to break up and suction out fatty tissue. It’s designed to help you reduce those areas that don’t seem to respond to exercise or changes in your diet.
This isn’t a one-size-fits-all fix. Liposuction is more of a shaping tool than a massive weight-loss method. If your main goal is to lose a lot of pounds, you might need to explore other approaches first. But if you’re near your ideal weight and want to sculpt trouble spots, this procedure can help you see real changes.
Not All Liposuction Is the Same
Traditional liposuction removes fat, but sometimes your skin also needs extra help. At U Plastic Surgery + Aesthetics, Dr. Tag can use power-assisted liposuction (PAL) with the MicroAire device to gently break up stubborn fat.
Because not all liposuction methods are the same, and at U Plastic Surgery + Aesthetics, Dr. Tag frequently uses VASER liposuction and pairs this with traditional liposuction for enhanced results. VASER, which stands for Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance, is an ultrasound-based technique that delivers energy pulses through a specialized probe. These pulses gently loosen fat cells from surrounding tissues, making them easier to remove. This treatment helps to remove fat more smoothly and helps with definition as well as skin retraction.
Additionally, VASER can stimulate collagen production, which may help tighten the skin for a more sculpted and refined appearance.
If you have loose skin, BodyTite can be added. This radiofrequency treatment helps tighten areas that need more support. By mixing and matching these methods, Dr. Tag has multiple ways to reduce and smooth out any concerns with your body to give you a smoother, more refined look.
Common Areas Liposuction Can Shape
Here are some common areas that our U Plastic Surgery + Aesthetics team can help with liposuction.
- Abdomen: Stubborn belly fat can be tough to lose, even if you hit every spin class and do every situp in the book. Liposuction can take care of that last layer and help accentuate all the work U have done by highlighting your abs.
- Hips and Thighs: These zones often hold fat that’s hard to shed, especially if you’re genetically prone to carrying weight there.
- Arms: If your arms don’t appear toned, this procedure can tighten and smooth out the area.
- Back: Some of Dr. Tag’s patients notice bulges around the bra line or flanks, making them feel less at ease in fitted clothes.
- Chin and Neck: Liposuction here can sharpen your jawline and refine your profile.
The Liposuction Process: What to Expect
Here’s the rundown of how your process at U Plastic Surgery + Aesthetics will go.
- Consultation
- You’ll meet with Dr. Tag, a board-certified plastic surgeon. This is your chance to ask every question you have. You’ll share what you’d like to change and talk about your health history. You’ll also discuss realistic outcomes, potential risks, and how liposuction fits into your overall goals.
- Preparation
- If you move forward, you’ll receive instructions to follow before surgery. For example, you might need to pause certain medicines or dietary supplements. Our team may also ask that you quit smoking for a while. Your health and safety are top priorities, so it’s important to follow these steps carefully.
- Procedure Day
- You’ll arrive and go through the final checks. You’ll receive anesthesia, which might be local or general, depending on how many areas you’re addressing. Then, Dr. Tag will make small incisions near the treatment area. Through these tiny openings, the surgeon inserts a narrow tube to loosen and remove fat cells.
-
- The length of time depends on your treatment plan. You might be done in under an hour for a single area, or it might take a couple of hours if you’re treating several spots. Afterward, you’ll rest in a recovery room while the anesthesia wears off.
- Recovery
- Dr. Tag may place a compression garment on you. This helps your skin conform to your new shape. You might notice mild swelling or soreness, but it should ease up within a few weeks.
- Dr. Tag may recommend lymphatic massage postoperatively to help improve your results and recovery by decreasing swelling and to help soften scar tissue that may form.
Addressing Common Concerns
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we get about liposuction.
“Does Liposuction Leave Scars?”
Your procedure involves small incisions, so scars are usually tiny and fade with time. With proper aftercare, they’re often barely noticeable. Your doctor might give you tips, like protecting the area from the sun and using approved skincare.
“Is Liposuction Permanent?”
The fat cells taken out are gone for good. But that doesn’t mean you’re off the hook with exercise or daily habits. Weight gain can still happen in other parts of your body. If you stick with a healthy routine, you’ll likely keep your new shape for years.
“Will I Lose Weight?”
Liposuction is more of a remodeling procedure than a weight-loss option. You might notice a small drop on the scale, but the main benefit is a slimmer, more balanced look. It’s best to think of it as fine-tuning after you’ve done all you can to shed unwanted pounds.
“How Long Is Recovery?”
Recovery times vary by person and by how many areas you treat. If you work at an office in Owings Mills or the greater Baltimore area, you might return to your desk within a few days. More demanding tasks or workouts may need to wait a couple of weeks or more. We’ll let you know when it’s okay to resume your usual activities.
“What Are the Risks?”
As with any surgery, there are some possible side effects. You could have swelling, bruising, or temporary numbness in the treated spot. In most cases, these pass with time. Choosing a board-certified surgeon (like Dr. Tag) helps limit risks and improve your overall outcome.
How to Decide if Liposuction Is Right for You
Is liposuction best for you? Ask yourself a few questions.
- Are you happy with your current weight but not with certain trouble spots?
- Do you plan to keep up healthy habits after surgery?
- Are you in good health with no major medical conditions?
- Can you set aside time for a short recovery?
If you answered yes to most of these, you might be an ideal candidate. Even so, it’s wise to have a thorough exam and an honest conversation with a licensed surgeon.
Things to Keep in Mind
Here are some important things to remember about your liposuction procedure at U Plastic Surgery + Aesthetics.
- Be Realistic
- Liposuction can help shape your body but won’t change your bone structure or overall build. Keep realistic expectations about your end result.
- Think Ahead
- If you’re planning to have more children or you’re still losing weight, you might want to wait. Major changes in your body can alter your results over time.
- Remember the Limitations
- Liposuction doesn’t firm all loose skin. If skin laxity is a concern, you may need an additional procedure, like a tummy tuck or BodyTite.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
Want a better experience? Keep Dr. Tag’s tips in mind.
- Ask Questions: Don’t hold back during your consultation. Your surgeon can explain everything, from anesthesia to aftercare.
- Follow Pre-Op Instructions: If our team advises you to stop certain meds or vitamins, take it seriously. If you have a prescription, speak with the provider who prescribed it.
- Plan Your Recovery Space: Before surgery, set up a comfortable spot with pillows, blankets, and entertainment. You’ll appreciate having things ready for you.
- Arrange a Ride: You’ll need someone to take you home and help you around the house for a day or two.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking water aids in healing and helps flush out toxins.
- Wear Your Compression Garment: Don’t skip this. It supports your new contour and helps reduce swelling.
Ready to Learn More?
Your next move is to schedule a consultation with a reputable plastic surgeon, like Dr. Tag at U Plastic Surgery + Aesthetics. You’ll be able to discuss what you want, ask questions, and learn about other options that might suit you. Liposuction can empower people in Owings Mills and the greater Baltimore area to refresh their confidence. With the right plan, you’ll see a difference that blends well with your shape and reflects how much effort you’ve already put in.