Liposuction Alternatives
San Antonio Liposuction
There are several different methods of non-surgical fat removal that have been introduced to the American market in the past decade. Many of these procedures are touted as alternatives to liposuction surgery. Although non-surgical body contouring treatments can benefit certain patients, liposuction is widely considered to be the most effective fat removal procedure on the market. It involves the creation of incision through which extra fat can actually be suctioned out of the body. Non-invasive weight loss methods use injections, radiofrequency energy, infrared light, and other techniques to break up fat cells in hopes that they will be naturally expelled from the body. While non-surgical body contouring treatments can work, multiple treatment sessions are required and treatment works best on patients with small amounts of excess fat or skin. San Antonio plastic surgeon Constance Barone reviews the liposuction procedure and its most popular alternatives in this blog post.
Liposuction
The liposuction procedure involves the surgical removal of fat from specific areas of the patient's body. Our San Antonio liposuction patients are put under general or local anesthesia for the procedure. Next, Dr. Barone creates an opening in the skin through which a cannula is inserted. The cannula, a fat suctioning device, removes unwanted fat cells from the body. After the appropriate amount of fat has been taken out of the body, the incisions are closed and the wound is cleaned and covered. After all bruising and swelling has gone down, results of treatment are visible.
VelaShape
The VelaShape procedure incorporates use of radiofrequency energy and infrared light to heat deeper layers of the skin, in addition to massage rollers and a suctioning device that manipulates the surface of the skin. The treatment is designed to promote the removal of fat cells, tighten the skin, and reduce the appearance of cellulite in the treatment area.
Body by Thermage and Laser Skin Tightening
The Body by Thermage and laser skin tightening procedures tighten mild to moderate amounts of skin laxity. These treatments complement liposuction surgery; after liposuction, patients may notice that the skin in the treatment area looks a bit loose. Body by Thermage or laser skin tightening procedures can be performed on the treatment area to produce a more toned, fit appearance.
Lipodissolve
The lipodissolve procedure received a lot of buzz in the mid-2000s; it involves injections of a concoction of ingredients that are designed to cause localized fat cells to dissolve and move out of the treatment area. However, the FDA has not approved lipodissolve injections, and long-term studies researching the safety of the procedure have not been conducted. We recommend that our patients avoid undergoing the lipodissolve procedure due to potential safety concerns. Do you have unwanted deposits of fat in your stomach, thighs, hips, or another area of your body? Contact our practice to schedule a consultation and learn more about the body contouring treatment options that are available to you.
