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FACE
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BREAST
BODY
Liposuction (Vaser liposelection)
If you have excess subcutaneous fat that is resistant to diet and exercise, liposuction (“lipoplasty”) is an effective procedure you may want to consider. This type of cosmetic surgery is a popular procedure for improving the various contours of your body, and Terry L. Hand, M.D., F.A.C.S. can help you attain a more flattering figure.
Liposuction is a surgical procedure designed to sculpt and remove localized fat in areas that appear to be resistant to diet and exercise. Very often, because of the aging process, fat redistributes to locations that were previously never a problem. Liposuction targets these areas permanently. The possibility to gain weight still exists, so fat redistribution may occur with a large weight gain. Liposuction may be performed on the neck, the arms, abdomen, hips, back bulges, buttocks, thighs and knees. An appropriate candidate for liposuction is in good health and usually is of average weight with healthy, elastic skin. Some individuals have bulges in the neck or thighs that have been apparent since puberty, changing little with weight loss. Others, particularly when entering the 40's, will see increased abdominal fat and back fat that lingers. Often, genetically inherited fat accumulations can be altered positively. Small amounts of fat, removed from isolated areas, often create amazing results in the body's contour.
Procedure Description
Bay Area plastic surgeon, Dr. Hand, performs liposuction at our accredited Marin County outpatient surgical facility. General anesthesia is required in order to ensure total patient comfort during the surgical procedure. Dr. Hand is then provided an enhanced ability to sculpt and refine the targeted areas completely with no discomfort.
Dr. Hand utilizes Vaser liposelection, an internal ultrasonic instrument that is tissue-selective in that it targets unwanted fat while preserving other surrounding tissues. This technique also promotes smoother contours, decreased healing time and bruising. It is much more precise than older methods that used large cannulas and were not selective of the tissues that were disrupted. The ultrasonic waves produced by a special cannula tip, essentially rupture and emulsify the targeted fat cells, making them easier to aspirate with smaller cannulas. During the procedure, tiny incisions are placed in discreet locations. An infusion fluid is injected into the fatty layer under the skin and the ultrasonic sound waves are applied via the cannula. After the fat has been treated, a small suction cannula is inserted and the area is carefully sculpted so that the body contour is refined and the treated area is proportionate to the rest of the body. The incision sites are sutured and a compressive garment applied.
Recuperation and Healing
Immediately after surgery is completed, the treated surgical areas can be very uncomfortable for a few hours. The discomfort is usually easily managed with oral pain medications and rest. A few hours later, the bulk of the discomfort has quieted and the area will usually only be sore for a few days. A small amount of drainage from the incision sites is normal and may persist for 24 hours. The liposuction garment is to be left in place continuously for 5 to 7 days following surgery. Its purpose is to control swelling and fluid collection in the treated areas and to assist in skin contraction. Removing the garment prematurely may increase the healing time and general discomfort. After the 1st week, the garment may be removed to launder or to shower but should be reapplied and worn continuously for another 2 weeks. Most patients can return to non-strenuous work in 3 to 5 days after surgery. Most exercise maybe resumed in 2 to 3 weeks. Some swelling and discoloration may persist for 3 weeks but a dramatic difference in contour is often seen immediately. The final result of liposuction can take 4 to 6 months during which time the skin tightens over the treated areas.
If I am seeking a physician who offers liposuction in Marin County, why choose Dr. Hand for my procedure? With board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), as well as membership with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), Dr. Hand is a highly respected plastic surgeon in Northern California. He values professionalism and compassion toward his patients, and his extensive training, years of experience, and emphasis on personalized care all contribute to his renowned reputation.
You may view before and after liposuction pictures of patients in his photo gallery. With a private practice in Marin County since 1981, Dr. Hand understands the importance of seeking a qualified Greenbrae plastic surgeon who is thoroughly experienced in performing your surgical procedure. To schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Hand, please call (415) 461-6742 or fill out the patient contact form.
