Liposuction

Liposuction, sometimes referred to as “lipo” by patients slims and dramatically changes the body contours of a patient’s figure who have localized areas of excess fat. Liposuction is not a way to lose weight.  Most commonly we see liposuction performed in the abdomen, hips, flanks (back rolls) and inner and outer thighs. 

Small incisions are made followed by injections of dilute local anesthetic to the regions being targeted, which reduces bleeding and bruising. It also has the added benefit of decreasing post-operative pain. Next, small cannulas are used to aspirate or liposuction the excess fatty tissue out. This technique also calls for the suctioning of fat just below the skin, which leads to shrinkage of the overlying skin, and improvement in results when compared to standard liposuction techniques. Dr.Rehnke uses small suction cannulas that reduce the size of scars. This fat will not come back or “re-grow.” However, if a patient puts on weight, the fat cells that have been left behind can double, triple or quadruple in size. It’s very important that a patient maintain a stable body weight following liposuction.

Liposuction is usually performed under a general anesthetic and can be done as an out-patient procedure and typically requires two to three weeks for recovery. During that time, it is recommended that patients wear a garment or girdle to put compression on the area operated on. This will help lessen swelling and bruising. Most liposuction patients no longer require pain medications within three to four days, and can return to work in a week.  

Fat Injection (Autologous Fat Transfer) 

Autologous fat transfer is liposuction of fat from areas that are unwanted and re injecting the fat into areas where the patient desires augmentation. Once the fat has been carefully removed to avoid injury to the cells, it is then processed by centrifuging the fat. This allows for separation of the pure fat cells from non living tissues such as water, blood, or local anesthetic. Once harvested, the fat is transferred into small syringes and injected into the desired area as such the lips, face and breast. Fat is injected into depressions or dimples to improve overall contour and achieve aesthetic improvements that would be unattainable with liposuction alone. This technique can also be used in the face to achieve fuller lips or more youthful facial proportions. Dr. Rehnke also transfers fat to the breast for contouring and enhancing the shape of the breast. 

If you are interested in cosmetic plastic surgery procedures such as a liposuction, autologous fat transfer, or just have a question about your different body contouring procedure options, click the link below to schedule a personal and confidential cosmetic surgery consultation through our convenient on-line form. Or call 1-727-341-0337.