Liposuction
By Dr Douglas Grace B.Sc., M.D., F.R.C.S.C.

Liposuction is particularly well-suited for people who are of relatively normal weight but have isolated pockets of fat that cause certain areas of their body to appear disproportionate.  These localized fat deposits may sometimes be an inherited trait and typically do not respond to dieting or exercise.  Liposuction is often the only way to eliminate these deposits.

While it is possible to undergo liposuction at almost any age, you will obtain the best results if your skin still has enough elasticity to achieve a smooth contour following fat removal.  When skin is inelastic, as in some older patients, it may not re-drape well and a skin tightening procedure may be necessary.

The goal of Dr. Douglas Grace and the entire staff at The Grace Clinic is to make your surgical experience as easy and comfortable for you as possible.

How should I prepare for surgery?

If you are a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking well in advance of surgery.  Aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs can cause increased bleeding, so you should avoid taking these medications for a period of two weeks prior to surgery.  If required, The Grace Clinic will provide you with additional preoperative instructions. 

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How will I look initially?

It is important to realize that the amount of time it takes for recovery varies greatly among individuals.

The day after surgery, you will need to move around a bit to promote blood circulation.  Dr. Grace will advise you to limit yourself to these brief periods of gentle activities for the first few days.  Remember, you must not take aspirin or certain anti-inflammatory medications, and you should not smoke for a period of time following the surgery.

Your dressings will be temporarily removed within several days so that Dr. Grace can examine the treated areas.  You will notice swelling and bruising, which is to be expected.  Swelling usually begins to subside a week or so following surgery, while bruising can last three weeks or longer.

There may also be numbness in some areas, and it may take several weeks before feeling returns.  If stitches need to be removed, this is typically done within ten days after surgery.

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When can I resume my normal activities?

You may be able to return to work in just a few days.  In many instances, you can resume most of your normal activities within one or two weeks and begin some form of exercise three to four weeks post surgery.  The timing of your recovery depends largely on the extent of your surgery.

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Results of your Liposuction

Liposuction surgery will reduce those areas of fatty deposits that previously created unflattering bulges and perhaps made it difficult to feel comfortable in your clothing or caused self-consciousness.  Factors such as fluid retention and prolonged swelling after surgery may delay the appearance of your new, slimmer contour.  The healing process is gradual, so you should expect to wait a while before fully enjoying the results of your liposuction.

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How long will the results last?

The results of liposuction will be permanent, as long as you maintain your postoperative weight.  Even if you gain a few extra pounds, you may find that the weight is distributed more evenly instead of accumulating in the areas that were problematic for you in the past.

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After Care

You will return to The Grace Clinic at prescribed intervals for follow up with the Nurse, at which time your progress will be evaluated.

Please remember that the relationship with Dr. Grace and The Grace Clinic does not end when you leave the operating room.  If you have any questions or concerns during your recovery, or need additional information at a later time, feel free to call The Grace Clinic.

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