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What is liposuction?

Liposuction (lipoplasty) is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that is used to enhance the body’s natural shape. Suction is used to remove excess skin and fat that are just below the skin. This increasingly popular procedure is becoming more and more in demand throughout the country as it becomes safer and virtually painless. 

How liposuction works

Liposuction can be performed in large or small areas of the body, from the thighs and buttocks to the minimal area under the chin. No matter where the procedure is performed, it is done in the same manner. Fat is broken up and vacuumed from under the skin through a thin cannula that is used to make a small incision. 

Surgical instruments force fat cells out of the body after breaking them up. The fat is vacuumed out through the cannula with the help of a large syringe or a vacuum pump. Since patients may lose fluid as the fat is removed from the body, IV fluids are monitored by a professional and given to the patient during surgery.

Why choose liposuction?

While a healthy diet and regular exercise are the best ways to get the body you want, these methods may not always take care of your most persistent problem areas. If you maintain a healthy lifestyle but still have areas of your body that have excess fat, liposuction is an effective, safe way to get rid of them. The technology used in liposuction has advanced over the years to make the process less invasive and more comfortable. We use the most advanced techniques, and our staff is genuinely invested in the outcome of your procedure. We take pride in our patients’ results and experience, and we smoothly combine excellent customer service with the best in patient care to ensure that you’re happy with your outcome.

Positive aspects of liposuction

  • Effective, safe way to remove excess fat from problem areas
  • Appearance of cellulite is reduced throughout the body
  • Patients enjoy mental and physical benefits from liposuction
  • Areas of the body can be improved where non-invasive treatment or exercise have failed

Types of liposuction 

Liposuction may be performed several different ways. The right one for your specific needs will be chosen during your initial consultation. Different types of liposuction include:

Traditional liposuction

Traditional liposuction (also known as suction assisted liposuction/SAL) is the traditional method where a pressure vacuum is connected to a small cannula. The cannula is operated manually by the surgeon, and a medicated saline solution is injected into the treatment area. Small incisions are then made in each layer of fat, and the surgeon introduces the cannula to break up fat and remove it from the body.

Power assisted liposuction 

Power assisted liposuction (PAL) uses a mechanical cannula to extract fat through smaller incisions in the treatment area. This technique is particularly beneficial in areas of the body with fibrous tissue, as less physical effort and manual force are required. PAL does not use heat, which lessens concerns about accidental burning that are often present during other plastic surgeries. 

Ultrasonic assisted liposuction 

In ultrasonic assisted liposuction (UAL), fat is removed from the body in an easier manner, as ultrasound is used to liquefy the fat. This makes this method less traumatic and more efficient than other liposuction procedures. Surgeons may use two different approaches with UAL: draining fat as it is liquefied, or draining it after it is liquidized. 

Miami laser liposuction

Regardless of the body type, laser liposuction offers excellent results. The procedure uses a laser beam to inactivate fat cells, rendering them incapable of storing additional fat. Usually after this procedure, patients can return to work after just one day of rest. The laser also stimulates the body to grow more collagen, improving the look of the skin. The laser also reduces the risk of inflammation and bleeding.

What happens during a liposuction procedure?

During a liposuction procedure, a cannula (a hollow stainless steel tube) is combined with an aspirator (suction device) to remove fat from the body. While liposuction is not used to treat medical conditions such as obesity, it’s a valuable tool for those patients that maintain a healthy lifestyle and body weight. Liposuction is often combined with a facelift, tummy tuck, or breast reduction, but can also be performed on its own. Problem areas often treated with liposuction include: 

  • Waist
  • Belly
  • Hips
  • Buttocks
  • Chest
  • Back
  • Cheeks
  • Jaw
  • Calves
  • Ankles
  • Chin
  • Arms

Liposuction in Miami from The Maercks Institute

When you’re ready to take control of your body and get the look you want, come to us. We will get you on the path to your customized Miami liposuction procedure. The Maercks Institute is a high-profile, Miami-based surgical center that challenges the “status quo” plastic surgery by delivering bespoke results that appear as if they are made by nature. President and medical director Dr. Rian Maercks is a board-certified cosmetic, plastic, and reconstructive surgery specialist who is widely regarded for his specialized expertise in cosmetic breast and body procedures. His approach to both surgical and non-invasive aesthetic interventions of the face and body has garnered him international recognition by surgeons and patients alike. Attention to detail, vision, and experienced judgement are used to achieve optimal results. If you would like to learn more about liposuction and what it can do for you, we invite you to contact our office today. 

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Who is an ideal candidate for liposuction?

If you’re considering undergoing liposuction in Miami, it may be the perfect procedure for your needs. Ideal candidates for liposuction do not have any life-threatening illnesses or medical conditions that may make it difficult to heal after a cosmetic procedure. Candidates should be non-smokers who live a healthy lifestyle and want to remove fat and improve their body contour.  

How much does liposuction in Miami cost?

As with most cosmetic procedures, the quality of the surgeon is more important than the cost; however, we understand that your budget figures into your final decision. Liposuction usually starts at $5000, depending on the location. Cost also varies based on which area is being suctioned and the type of anesthesia used. Liposuction is often combined with other cosmetic procedures in order to lower costs, which we can discuss with you during your initial consultation.

SAL fast facts

  • The most effective way of removing large amounts of fat from the body at once
  • Used often in large treatment areas such as the buttocks, back, and abdomen
  • Less expensive than other types of liposuction
  • Used to treat some medical conditions (benign fatty tumors, lipomas, overdeveloped male breast tissue, etc.)
  • Results depend on the patient but are typically long-lasting
  • Results are elongated with proper diet and exercise
  • Risks include numbness, swelling, irritation, & color changes in the body area
  • Some patients may also experience a fluid imbalance 
  • While rare, an embolism may occur during liposuction (when fat detaches and is trapped in the blood vessels)
  • Swelling may be persistent for several months or weeks after surgery

Laser lipo fast facts

  • Most commonly treated areas are the back, abdomen, chest, thighs, hips, and male breasts 
  • Offers decreased risks of bruising and bleeding 
  • Faster overall recovery time
  • Laser liposuction’s thermal energy increases the risk of burning tissues and blistering, which may result in scarring and infection
  • Skin irregularities are common (patients may notice dimpling or wavy skin texture after treatment)
  • Light or dark skin discoloration may be noticeable (typically fades with time)
  • As long as the patient maintains a healthy lifestyle, results are permanent

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PAL fast facts

  • Power assisted liposuction offers more comfort to both the surgeon and the patient
  • The cannula does the job of releasing fat cells in order to lessen the effort required by the surgeon
  • Offers faster recovery times and less bruising
  • Fewer risks and complications involved
  • Risks include wrinkles or loose skin (this typically tightens up over time), or slight pigment changes in the skin

UAL fast facts

  • Typically used in the abdomen, back, and male breast areas
  • Results are softer and smoother
  • Surgeon has more control over body contouring during the procedure
  • Reduced bruising, bleeding, and trauma 
  • UAL gives better definition to problem areas like the arms, rib cage, and waist
  • While rare, UAL presents the possibility of burning during the procedure from the ultrasound energy 

Recovery from liposuction

Liposuction recovery may last anywhere from just a few short days to several weeks. Patients report being uncomfortable during recovery — particularly during the immediate period after treatment — but following Dr. Maerck’s instructions will ensure the smoothest recovery period possible. Common complaints after liposuction include burning, swelling, soreness, and numbing in the treated areas. These areas should be wrapped firmly after the procedure in order to minimize discomfort and pain. Proper care for the treated areas is essential after treatment. Compression garments or wraps may be used for several weeks after surgery in order to speed up recovery, reduce swelling, and keep the body toned up. Bandages should be replaced 24 to 48 hours after surgery, and sutures and drains are removed at 8 to 10 days. Stitches may dissolve, but if they don’t, they should be removed by the surgeon. Patients are able to remove compression garments after several weeks, and once the swelling subsides, the final results are visible. Antibiotics may also be given by your doctor in order to control for the risks of infection at the incision sites.

What to expect in your consultation

When you schedule a consultation with us for your Miami liposuction procedure, you will meet with the doctor to discuss any questions or concerns you have. You will undergo a full physical examination to determine if you’re a good candidate, and you should be prepared to answer questions about your medical history and lifestyle. 

This is the opportunity to address any concerns you have with your body and to identify your desired results to ensure that you are happy after the procedure. During this consultation, we will also discuss the cost with you, and how you plan to pay for your surgery. Liposuction is not covered by insurance, but we can direct you to the right place to contact your representative if you have questions about your insurance coverage. We’re here to make the process as easy and painless as possible for you. 

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FAQ

Is there anything I should do to prepare for liposuction?

Yes. We will give you a detailed list of preparation instructions during your consultation. In general, those who will undergo liposuction should arrange to have a ride to and from our surgery center, as well as someone who can help assist them at home for the first couple of days. You should go ahead and fill the prescriptions from Dr. Maercks before your procedure so that they’re at home, ready for you during recovery. You may also be asked to refrain from consuming food or drinks before your liposuction.

Does liposuction address obesity?

No. Liposuction is not an ideal solution for obesity. For individuals who are obese, surgery is the best option.

Will there be scars left from the liposuction procedure?

The cannula will only make very tiny incisions, and these typically heal very well and are hard to see. How many incisions you receive will depend on the number of entry points needed to treat the area. The type of skin you have will also make a difference in how apparent your scars will be.

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