With the recent deluge of winter weather, most of us are trying to remember that summer is just around the corner and let’s face it, the focus on body image increases with the temperature. With that in mind, let’s learn a little bit about one method of obtaining a more pleasing body image, liposuction.

Suction-assisted lipectomy is the standard method of liposuction. In this approach, a small cannula (like a straw) is inserted through a small incision. It is attached to a vacuum device and fat is removed as the suction cannula creates tiny tunnels through the fatty layers. After surgery, these tiny tunnels collapse and thus result in an improved body contour.

The areas most commonly treated include the hips, abdomen, thighs, buttocks, arms, neck and face.

Liposuction is NOT a good alternative to dieting or exercising and not everyone is a good candidate for liposuction. To be a good candidate, one must be over 18 and in good general health, have healthy, elastic skin, have tried a diet and exercise regime, and have found that the last 10 or 15 pounds persist in certain pockets on the body. Most importantly, patients must not expect perfection. It is realistic to expect a significant improvement, but it is unrealistic to expect perfect results.

Under most circumstances recovery is usually quick. Most people can return to work within a few days and to normal activities within about two weeks. Bruising, swelling, and soreness are to be expected for a few weeks. However, every person's outcome will vary based on factors such as volume of fat cells removed and area of removal.

Liposuction removes fat cells permanently so if you gain weight after the procedure, it usually will not concentrate in the area that was treated. However, it is important to note that liposuction will not prevent you from regaining weight. To keep your new shape and new weight after liposuction, you must follow a proper diet and exercise plan.

The Holzer Clinic Plastic Surgery Department and Medical Spa can help you achieve your desired results. During the month of March all liposuction is offered at a 15% discount. Please call 740-446-5225 for an appointment in Gallipolis, Athens, Jackson, Point Pleasant or Proctorville.

Holzer Clinic… Medical Excellence, Local Caring.

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Holzer Clinic is a multiple discipline health care system of over 140 board certified physicians providing care in more than thirty areas of expertise. With nine locations throughout southeastern Ohio and western West Virginia, Holzer Clinic provides “Medical Excellence, coupled with Local Caring”.

Holzer Clinic is accredited by the Accreditation Association of Ambulatory Health Care.

If you would like more information about this topic, or to schedule an interview, please contact MarJean Kennedy @ 740-441-3288 or MKennedy@holzerclinic.com