Plastic Surgery Basics – The 411 on Liposuction

Liposuction is a procedure that helps many people but there are many misconceptions about liposuction in  general circulation. Some people believe that liposuction is a cure all for every type of excessive weight condition, and that simply is not the case.

Liposuction is a tool used by a skilled, board certified plastic surgeon that can have positive benefits. It can be used in combination with other procedures to remove fat deposits that diet and exercise just can’t handle. But those who are chronically overweight should not look at liposuction as a substitute for diet and exercise.

Of course, popular TV shows like Nip/Tuck and the admission of many celebrities that they have had liposuction have led to its increased popularity. Abdominal liposuction is quite popular. Some people however think it is cheating to have abdominal liposuction and  refer to it as a cop out. Of course many of those people who consider it such are those who do not have weight problems, and perhaps have metabolisms that burn off the calories. Your clients should visit with a plastic surgeon to determine if they are good candidates for liposuction. The doctor can discus pros and cons including risks associated with the procedure. Many women have suffered from weight gain from pregnancy. Many men and women both have suffered from weight gain due to sedentary lifestyles that come from the types of jobs we perform these days. Many people have physical disabilities that have made weight gain more common and easy. For many of them liposuction is a valid, and even a good option. However, while it is one of the most commonly performed plastic surgery procedures done in the US, it is not cheap and generally insurance does not cover it as it is an elective cosmetic procedure.

Liposuction is not complicated but there is a healing process and recovery time involved, The healing  period can take a few months. A strict diet is a part of it. Also the patient should be aware that there will be bruising and lumps may form around the fat extraction area. This is temporary however, and will eventually go away.

As an esthetician, you should have basic knowledge of plastic surgery procedures in general, including liposuction. Your clients may ask about it.