Liposuction is one of the most popular body sculpting procedures for addressing hard to get rid of fat. For some of us, localized pockets of fat stay put no matter how hard we exercise or deprive ourselves with restrictive diets. These fatty areas rob us of confidence and make us feel self-conscious, especially on the beach.

Liposuction removes excess fat so that you are smooth and proportionate once again. Dr. Steven Montante has performed numerous successful liposuction surgeries for his patients in Richmond, Virginia. Think of him as a sculptor who uses this technique to reshape your body.

If you also have loosened skin in the areas where there is excess fat, you may need a different procedure, such as a Tummy Tuck.

Besides the torso and limbs, a liposuction procedure is also sometimes performed on the neck and chin. Again, if there is loose skin in these areas, you might need a Face Lift or Neck Lift instead.

See Liposuction Results

Process of a Liposuction Procedure

Liposuction can reduce fat and smooth areas, such as the:

  • Abdomen
  • Hips
  • Love handles
  • Inner and outer thighs
  • Inner knees
  • Chin
  • Neck
  • Chest and pectoral area (for men)

Note that liposuction does not remove stretch marks.

Liposuction surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure in Richmond using sedation or general anesthesia. It takes 1-3 hours depending on the number of areas to be treated.

The surgery requires only small incisions (3-4mm) that can often be discretely placed in the body’s natural creases or in areas that are hidden even under a bathing suit. A small tube called a cannula is placed within the incisions and attached to a vacuum-like device that extracts the excess fat. Dr. Montante moves the cannula back and forth during this process.

Fat Removal Consultation

Dr. Montante will spend time with you during your initial consultation to hear your concerns and goals, as well as answer your questions. He will review your medical history, followed by an examination of the areas that concern you. This will allow him to recommend a surgical plan tailored specifically for you.

Candidates for liposuction in Richmond are near their ideal weight with a BMI (body mass index) of 35 or under. They also have good skin elasticity with few stretch marks. If you have loose skin, you may wish to have a Tummy Tuck, Face Lift, or other surgery that will remove both excess skin and fat.

Dr. Montante will advise you of all preparations to take prior to your operation. If you are a smoker, for example, you will need to stop for a period of time before surgery.

Schedule an Appointment for Liposuction Surgery in Richmond

You will wear a compression garment for about 3 weeks after surgery, which decreases swelling and bruising. Sutures are removed in about a week. You should be able to return to work and other normal activities in about a week. Avoid strenuous exercise for approximately 6 weeks.

You may experience some post-operative discomfort, but this can be managed with oral pain medication. Swelling can be reduced with cold compresses. You will notice some results immediately, but final results will not be visible until swelling fully resolves within a few weeks. Liposuction is a permanent procedure, but new fat can accumulate. If you exercise and try to avoid weight gain, your results will be long-lasting. If you have stubborn localized pockets of fat, consider a liposuction in Richmond. Call us today to schedule a consultation and find out more about this procedure.