Your Guide to Liposuction Procedure, Risks, and What to Expect

When it comes to cosmetic surgery, you want to walk into the decision with your eyes open to all of the important details.

Understanding the liposuction procedure, risks, and what to expect from start to finish is exactly how you do that.

What Happens During the Procedure?

Liposuction is a surgical procedure for body contouring that suctions out unwanted fat from targeted areas.

It is commonly used on the abdomen, thighs, flanks, upper arms, back, and chin.

Here’s how the process works:

• You’ll receive anesthesia, which may be local, sedation, or general.
• Your surgeon will make small incisions strategically in the treatment area.
• A thin cannula is inserted through an incision to loosen and suction out the fat.
• The incisions are closed.
• You’ll be monitored briefly before heading home the same day in most cases.

Typically, compression garments are applied immediately, and you’ll be instructed on usage as well.

Is Liposuction a Risky Procedure?

Every type of surgical procedure, whether cosmetic surgery or medically necessary, carries some degree of risk.

In the hands of a board-certified plastic surgeon at an accredited facility, it’s considered a very safe treatment.

Potential risks include bruising, swelling, temporary numbness, contour irregularities, and infection, most of which are rare and manageable when your surgeon follows proper protocols.

Choosing an experienced, qualified surgeon is the single most important factor in minimizing your risk.

What to Expect After Body Contouring Surgery

Generally, you can expect:

• Swelling and bruising for two to four weeks
• Compression garments worn for several weeks to support healing
• Light activity within a few days, with strenuous exercise cleared at four to six weeks
• Initial results visible once swelling subsides, with the final outcome apparent after three to six months

Get Expert Guidance on the Liposuction Procedure, Risks, and What to Expect at Capital Surgical Center

Jonathan Johnson, MD, MBA, CWSP, FAPWCA brings renowned surgical skill and a patient-first approach to every liposuction procedure. He prioritizes your safety and your results so both are exceptional.

Call our team at 202-861-2252 to schedule your consultation today and learn more about the liposuction procedure, risks, and what to expect!