Liposuction: 3 Myths Busted

Like many kinds of cosmetic surgery, liposuction is fraught with myths, from celebrity nightmares to unrealistic expectations. From advances in surgical techniques to new, non-surgical liposuction, the range of experience will only continue to increase. As you read about the procedure and make your way towards a decision about what’s right for you, here are three myths you may come across—and how to navigate your way through them as a smart, informed woman.   

“Lunchtime Lipo” doesn’t exist. Surgery is time intensive and involves a lot of downtime. 

False! Lunchtime lipo is a catchphrase coined to describe the outpatient procedure known as laser-assisted liposuction, or ProLipo. With this technique, a laser is used to melt the fat before it is removed. Patients report less post-operative discomfort, less bruising and a quicker return to normal activities. It’s minimally invasive and results include a slimmer appearance and tighter skin.

 

So you’re saying laser-assisted lipo offers the same results as traditional liposuction—but faster? 

This one’s tricky. For the right candidate, laser-assisted liposuction can be a wonderful alternative to traditional surgical techniques, and can save up to half the cost. With a combination approach of melting then removing the targeted cells, ProLipo can be performed in less than an hour and involves less downtime. Ideal candidates are slightly to moderately overweight and have realistic expectations. Talk to your doctor to see if this is the right choice for you.  

Liposuction can’t be done in conjunction with other surgical procedures.  

Not true. Many women undergo liposuction as part of a comprehensive surgical program, from mons pubis reduction to labiaplasty. Aesthetic procedures are never one size fits all, and should be tailored to your individual goals—talk to your doctor about what’s right for you.  

For women in Minnesota and beyond, Dr. Erhard is a board certified gynecologist and cosmetic surgeon with a practice emphasis in vaginal rejuvenation and mons pubis reduction. If you are interested in learning more about what this procedure can do for you, email Dr. Erhard and her team at info@mngaclinic.com or read more about the procedure at http://www.mngaclinic.com/AestheticServices/LiposuctionInOfficeProLipo.aspx.

Liposuction vs. Lift: Which Is Right for You?

The common catchphrase is “junk in the trunk.” But for those of us who carry our extra weight out in front—and may be considering liposuction—the topic can be a bit more sensitive. Relax. The lower abdomen is a stubborn foe for many a woman, and often, even a rigid diet and exercise regimen won’t cut it. If you have decided to take the next step with surgical intervention for a mons pubis reduction, you may be wondering: liposuction or lift? Let’s break it down.  

Liposuction—What to Know  

 

Liposuction, known medically as suction assisted lipectomy, is a surgery in which a cannula is used to loosen and remove subcutaneous fat deposits. Liposuction is not a substitute for weight loss and good fitness, but rather a great way to address stubborn areas that remain unresponsive to lifestyle changes. A mons pubis reduction refers specifically to liposuction of the area between the pubis and the lower abdomen. When muscle tone is still strong and skin elasticity intact, liposuction can be the best way to contour this region and achieve a great aesthetic outcome.  

Lift—When to Choose 

If you recently lost a significant amount of weight, or experienced significant tissue stretching over a short period of time (think: pregnancy), a mini-abdominoplasty or mons lift may be a better choice. While liposuction only removes fat, a lift can tighten the underlying tissues of the area as well as remove excess skin, ensuring a better cosmetic outcome for women with poor muscle tone or loose, sagging skin. A lift does come with a small scar, but it will be placed low in the pubic region, out of sight in most underwear and bikini bottoms. 

Who to Ask—Which Is Right for You? 

For women in Minnesota and beyond, Dr. Erhard is a board certified gynecologist and cosmetic surgeon with a practice emphasis in vaginal rejuvenation and mons pubis reduction. If you are interested in learning more about what this procedure can do for you, email Dr. Erhard and her team at info@mngaclinic.com or read more about the procedure at http://www.mngaclinic.com/AestheticServices/LiposuctionInOfficeProLipo.aspx.