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Liposuction—The Incision Process

Liposuction sculpts the body.

One of the many reasons liposuction at our Austin plastic surgery center is in such high demand is that it leaves little to no trace of surgery. Unlike other procedures that require long incisions, liposuction only needs tiny incisions to get the job done.

What parts of the body can liposuction treat?

Liposuction can help patients achieve a firm and fit look by getting rid of stubborn fat deposits in the following areas:

  • Chin, jawline, and neck
  • Upper arms
  • Hips
  • Waist
  • Thighs
  • Abdomen

How will the incisions be made?

Dr. Blagg, Dr. Crawford, Dr. Mehta, Dr. White, or I will start by making a small incision on the targeted areas. We will then apply tumescent fluid, which reduces bleeding and makes the procedure smoother and safer. This technique also helps keep you comfortable for hours after your procedure and minimizes bruising. These incisions are necessary to remove the unwanted fat, and you can expect them to be approximately 3 to 5 mm long.

Will the scars be noticeable?

We do our best to make the incisions in places that are inconspicuous and can be covered by underwear. Because the incisions are so small, they typically heal quickly and beautifully. Post-recovery they are hardly even noticeable. Remember, “scar-less” surgery does not exist. Non-invasive body sculpting alternatives may not require incisions, but they will not provide you with the same dramatic results.

How can I minimize the appearance of the scars?

First of all, make sure to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon who has years of experience performing liposuction. It is a good idea to check out a surgeon’s before-and-after gallery before scheduling a surgery date. Make sure you are comfortable with the results your surgeon’s other patients are getting. It’s okay to be nervous about your procedure, but ultimately you should feel comfortable with and trust your surgeon.

Once you have had your surgery, you can do a few things to make sure your scars are as discreet as possible:

  • Minimize tension with Steri-Strips
  • Keep your incision site clean to prevent infection
  • Protect your scars from the sun
  • Use scar maturation products (discuss with your surgeon first)
  • Go to your follow-up appointments with your surgeon so he or she can check if your scars are healing correctly

Generally, liposuction scars heal very well, but sometimes a patient’s genetics, medical conditions, or improper wound care can impair proper healing. In this case, there always the option of scar revision using lasers or other techniques.

To learn more about liposuction, read our previous blog post that answers common questions about the procedure. If you want to discuss your options and are ready to take the next steps, request a consultation online or give us a call at (512) 244-1439.

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