Select a Procedure: Liposuction | Abdominoplasty

Body Procedures

Liposuction

Liposuction is a procedure that addresses excess fat deposits that do not respond to diet or exercise. These areas may be due to heredity or family traits rather than lack of weight control or fitness. In general, liposuction reshapes specific areas of the body by removing localized or regional excess fat, improving body contours and proportion. There are three common variations to the procedure:

• Suction assisted lipectomy, surgical suctioning of fat deposits (SAL)
• Tumescent or super-wet liposuction, infusion of a saline solution combined with adrenaline and anesthetic prior to the removal of the fat
• Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL), ultrasonic energy is used to liquefy excess fat prior to surgical suctioning

Liposuction is not a treatment for obesity or a quick fix for weight reduction, it is also not the solution for cellulite. Liposuction can permanently reshape body contour.

Liposuction Consultation

We begin with a consultation with Dr. Yates to discuss if liposuction is an option for your specific concerns and if your expectations can be met. Following an evaluation of your skin elasticity, areas of fat deposits, volume of tissue to be removed, and review of your health history, a treatment plan will be formulated to best suit your needs.

Liposuction Procedure

Liposuction is performed through small incisions that are hidden within the natural creases and contours of the body. A thin, hollow tube or cannula is inserted through these incisions to loosen excess fat using a controlled back and forth motion. The dislodged fat is then suctioned out of the body using a surgical vacuum. The improved contour will be apparent once the swelling subsides. Compression garments are worn for 4-6 weeks following the surgery.

Liposuction - The Surgical Procedure

Suction assisted lipectomy can take 1 to 2 hours depending on the number of locations, volume of fat to be removed, and complexity of the planned procedure. The procedure is performed as an out patient and the anesthesia options will be discussed at the initial consultation. Once the surgery is complete a compression garment is applied to assist in the control of swelling and to compress the skin to the new body contours. Initial healing will include swelling, bruising, numbness, and soreness. It may take several months for the swelling to fully dissipate and your new contour to be fully realized. Your comfort and safety is always our primary concern. Dr. Yates will perform all of the surgical procedure. Dr. Yates was the first plastic surgeon to perform suction assisted lipectomy in central Pennsylvania, he has a vast level of experience with liposuction and was instrumental in implementing advances in liposuction, ultrasonic liposuction and the tumescent method in this area since 1983. While any surgical procedure entails risk, choosing an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Yates can help to ensure a safe outcome.

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Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

In general terms a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty removes excess fat and skin, and in some cases restores weakened or separated muscles. The most common causes for this can be heredity, multiple pregnancies, prior surgery, or fluctuations in weight. Abdominal contouring can be performed using a variety of techniques and may involve the areas of the abdomen ranging from the lower aspect of the rib cage to the pubic area and extend from side to side. When localized fat is the cause and there is good skin elasticity, abdominal contour surgery may only involve liposuction techniques. If fat and loose, sagging skin is the concern then contouring may require excision. The addition of weakened and separated abdominal muscles of varying levels may be repaired at the same time as a tummy tuck. A tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss. Individuals planning on future pregnancies or a substantial weight loss may wish to postpone the tummy tuck procedure. Smokers or those patients who live in a smoking environment are not considered good candidates for this procedure, they do risk skin loss and potential complications prolonging healing. Realistic expectations are also essential to abdominal contouring surgery.

Tummy Tuck - Abdominoplasty Consultation

We begin the process with an in depth consultation with Dr. Yates to determine the level of abdominal contouring required to meet your specific needs. A complete review of your health history, the options available to you, a discussion of your goals and expectations, and potential complications are discussed.

A full tummy tuck requires and a horizontal incision above the pubic hairline and may extend from hip to hip, with the potential for a vertical extension. Through this incision weakened muscles may be repaired, excess skin and fat may be removed. An incision around the belly button may also be necessary to enable tightening of the upper abdomen. A limited or mini tummy tuck may be applicable if the area involved is primarily below the belly button. A tummy tuck results in a firmer abdominal contour.

Abdominoplasty may be performed in either a hospital setting or an ambulatory surgery center. The more complex the procedure, the greater the potential for an overnight stay at the hospital to ensure your safety. Modified or mini tummy tucks are performed at an ambulatory surgery center. This surgery is performed with general anesthesia administered by an anesthesiologist (physician). Dr. Yates will perform all of your procedure. Following your surgery you will wear a compression type garment to reduce swelling and discomfort. Your comfort and safety are our primary concern. There will be stitches in place that will be removed gradually over a period of several weeks following your surgery.

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Debra Yates serves as a skin care consultant and the editorial board of NewBeauty Magazine.