Why Liposuction Is an Ideal Way to Sculpt and Contour Your Body 

Liposuction, commonly known as liposculpture, involves removing unwanted pockets of subcutaneous fat. The procedure—which removes excess fat through a suctioning process—is not a substitute for weight loss, but it can change the body’s shape and contour. 

Liposuction can be used to remove excess fat that’s resistant to exercise and dieting, including fat around the thighs, stomach, upper arms, buttocks, or waistline, says Dr. Mark McClung, who has done countless of these successful procedures in his storied 25-year career in Kansas City. 

“Think of liposuction as a way to selectively remove fat and contour skin,” says Dr. McClung. “These persistent fat pockets are usually found in localized areas—areas that are usually unable to be shrunk or toned otherwise.” 

Some body parts respond better to liposuction than others, adds Dr. McClung. “The abdomen, flanks, arms, and neck all tend to respond well. Upper inner thighs do well in younger people, however, older patients have difficulty with skin contraction. The bra line and upper back are two other areas that can be difficult to see good results.” 

The best patients for liposuction, you ask? Dr. McClung says these are his ideal candidates:

• Physically healthy people who are normal weight or slightly overweight 
• People with firm, elastic skin
• People who have pockets of excess fat in certain areas 
• People with realistic expectations

The liposuction procedure begins by making small incisions in natural skin folds to limit scarring. A special tumescent solution— a fluid with anesthetic medication—is placed within the fatty areas to be removed. Fat is then carefully suctioned out from problem areas using a surgical instrument called a cannula, a small blunt-ended instrument with specialized openings at the end to allow for easy removal of fat with limited bruising and swelling. “The current technique involves power-assisted liposuction, which uses high-frequency vibration to facilitate easier fat removal,” says Dr. McClung. “Post-op, there will be some soreness and possible numbness. A compression garment must be worn for up to three weeks.” 

After the procedure, “bruises may last 2 to 3 weeks,” says Dr. McClung. “Numb areas, meanwhile, will recover over a couple of months. Be advised—there can be risks of small contour deformities.” 

Finally, adds Dr. McClung, don’t expect to see an overnight transformation. “Final results can be impressive but may not be evident for three to six months for most lipo procedures,” he says.  “And, keep in mind, final results also depend on proper nutrition and exercise in conjunction with the procedure,” Dr. McClung adds.  

At Associated Plastic Surgeons, all of our doctors are well-versed in various cosmetic surgery procedures—including liposuction. Want to learn more or schedule a surgical consultation? Call us today at (913) 451-3722 or visit here.