Liposuction of the Stomach

Many patients may find that, despite a vigorous exercise regime and a low-fat diet, there may be areas on the body where the fat remains. One of the most common of these areas is the abdomen. Patients may find that despite their toned arms, thighs, and buttocks, they somehow cannot get rid of that stubborn “spare tire” around the middle. In such cases, liposuction may be the answer for patients seeking a completely toned and trimmed figure.

Candidates for Stomach Liposuction

The best candidates for stomach liposuction are those who are nonsmokers, otherwise in good health, and under the age of 65. Patients will have excess abdominal fat distributed in the lower abdomen and/or upper abdomen. The best candidates for stomach liposuction on its own have good skin contraction. Those who do not have good skin elasticity may elect to undergo a tummy tuck in combination with liposuction.

Liposuction Procedure

In the liposuction procedure, small incisions are made in the stomach at strategic locations. A thin, hollow metal tube is then inserted into the body at these incisions sites and the fat is gently suctioned at. This procedure may be done in conjunction with ultrasound or lasers, which first heat the fat, which makes it easier to remove. The procedure is very quick and generally does not take more than an hour.

Recovery

Recovery from a liposuction procedure is relatively fast. Patients can generally expect to be able to return to normal activities within a few days from surgery, including going back to work. More vigorous activities, such as exercise, should wait until three to four weeks from the surgery.

Side Effects and Risks

Side effects following a stomach liposuction procedure are relatively mild. The most common side effects are bruising and swelling at the suture sites. Patients are encouraged to use cold compresses and take the herb Arnica montana to reduce the effects of swelling and bruises. Dr. Crawford may provide patients a special compression garment to wear around their lower abdomen to further reduce the effects of swelling.

Risks from liposuction are relatively rare, but the most common is infection. Taking all prescribed antibiotics and keeping the suture sites clean and dry will cut down on the risk of infection. Hematomas, or blood pools may also form. While most are minor and do not require immediate attention, large hematomas should be brought to Dr. Crawford’s attention. A hematoma differs from a bruise by being raised and somewhat hard to the touch.

Results

Patients should begin to see results after the first week or two following the procedure, once most of the bruising and swelling has gone down. They should be able to notice more definition to their lower abdominal region, and less sag.

For patients who have most of their body in the shape they want, but may just have a few “trouble spots” around their midsection, abdominal liposuction may be just the answer they are looking for. The surgeons at Crawford Plastic Surgery can help them take that final step to the body they have worked so hard toward. Contact Crawford Plastic Surgery today.