The History of Liposuction: Houston surgeon Dr. Chris Livingston answers your questions

Q: WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF LIPOSUCTION?

A: The original description occurred in 1921 when Dujarrier used a curette to remove fat from the backside of the knee on a ballerina. Unfortunately this procedure was not successful and the technique was abandoned. The 1960's brought a rekindle to the procedure with more advanced equipment and techniques to reduce blood loss. With the advent of ultrasonic and laser liposuction and tumescent anesthesia, the modern liposuction procedure is now extremely safe, effective, and a simple operation which not only removes unwanted fat but can sculpt the body.

Q: WHO ARE THE CANDIDATES FOR LIPOSUCTION?

A: Houston liposuction patients must be healthy, active, and maintain an active lifestyle and diet control. Patients with localized fat deposits, realistic expectations, BMI (body mass index) < 32, and elastic skin tone without stretch marks are the best candidates. Ultrasonic liposuction techniques have made the technique more reliable for larger fat removal and heavier patients however, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is a better solution. Your board certified plastic surgeon should discuss all of the options during the consultation.

Q: WHAT SHOULD YOU EXPECT IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING LIPOSUCTION?

A: Liposuction can be performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia. Depending on the areas treated, 30 minutes to several hours are necessary but rarely an overnight hospital admission is required. Compression garments are mandatory for 6 to 8 weeks. Return to work usually occurs within 3-5 days and results are noticeable once swelling has resolved in 6 weeks. Final results usually take 6-9 months, although small touch-up procedures are sometimes necessary.

Q: WHAT ARE THE LATEST ADVANCES IN LIPOSUCTION?

A: Ultrasonic and Laser liposuction has allowed plastic surgeons to remove fat in delicate areas such as the face, and in a more precise manner, in essence, sculpt the body. The equipment is smaller so the procedure can be performed under local anesthesia (awake), and in some instances re-injected for volume deficiencies in other body areas. The most promising development is high intensity focused external ultrasonic energy, which is currently being studied for its efficacy. This technique requires no incisions or anesthesia and can be completed in your board certified plastic surgeons office. However, strict diet control and daily exercise are still the preferred method for an improved figure.