Abdominal Liposuction
Offered at our convenient location in Baltimore, Maryland
Liposuction, otherwise known as lipoplasty or simply “lipo,” removes fatty tissue from the body for the purpose of body contouring. Specifically, abdominal liposuction targets the fat localized in the patient’s midsection and is one of the more common liposuction procedures in the U.S.
For many patients, the decision to undergo abdominal liposuction operation is the culmination of a long struggle with their body image. The surgery is far more than a matter of health and well-being. Receiving liposuction can mean reclaiming one’s confidence and sparking a happy new outlook on life.
With her years of successful practice, Dr. Alyson Wells ranks as one of the top doctors in the mid-Atlantic and Chesapeake Bay regions by both GBMC and Baltimore Magazine. She will provide personalized attention and guidance during your consultation to help you achieve your aesthetic goals
Are you interested in what your liposuction journey could look like? Get in touch with Valley Plastic Surgery today by scheduling a consultation, calling (410) 628-8200, or reaching out via our online contact form.
Contents
Before and After Photos
About Abdominal Liposuction
Abdominal liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to remove excess fat and sculpt the midsection, resulting in a more defined and contoured abdomen. It is not an alternative to traditional weight loss methods but rather is an available option to remove stubborn pockets of fatty tissue that, despite best efforts like regular exercise and dieting, have not shown reduction. Each patient’s liposuction journey will be different in terms of goals, starting point, healing, and more.
While the world of liposuction is as diverse as its patient base, all procedures are centered around the eradication of subcutaneous adipose tissue — otherwise known as body fat — with the use of medical suction. Dr. Wells will consider each patient’s individual goals and ideal body image when planning their liposuction journey and will collaborate with the patient to identify their target areas during their consultation. The abdominal focus can target areas like love handles, muffin tops, and stubborn tummy fat.
Dr. Wells will remove the fatty tissue in these areas by inserting a cannula, a thin, hollow metal tube. These are about the length and width of a number 2 pencil and have undergone many evolutions since their adoption in the 1980s. Formerly sharp-ended with one hole — similar to a conventional needle — they have now been refined to have a round end with multiple holes on the top and sides to maximize their suction efficiency. (1)
The Tumescent Method
Tumescent solution is a diluted mix of adrenaline and the numbing agent lidocaine. (2) It is used to numb the area and swell the fat for easier removal. After the fluid takes effect, Dr. Wells will make an incision to insert the cannula. She will focus the cannula suction on the superficial layer of fat where the adipose tissue will be extracted. (3)
Benefits of Abdominal Liposuction
- Enhanced Body Proportions: Abdominal liposuction helps create a balanced and harmonious appearance by refining the waistline and improving body proportions.
- Defined Abdominal Contours: By removing excess fat, this procedure can reveal the underlying muscles, providing a more sculpted and toned appearance to the abdomen.
- Improved Clothing Fit: Getting rid of stubborn abdominal fat allows for better-fitting clothing and the ability to wear outfits that may have previously felt uncomfortable or unflattering.
- Waistline Refinement: Liposuction can help define the waistline, resulting in an hourglass figure and enhancing feminine curves.
- Reduced Belly Fat: Abdominal liposuction targets specific areas of fat accumulation, reducing belly fat and providing a flatter and smoother stomach profile.
- Improved Overall Body Shape: The removal of unwanted abdominal fat can enhance the overall body shape, contributing to a slimmer and more balanced silhouette.
- Increased Confidence: Eliminating unwanted belly fat and achieving a smoother, more contoured abdomen can significantly boost self-esteem and body confidence.
- Long-lasting Results: With proper diet and exercise maintenance, the results of abdominal liposuction can be long-lasting, allowing patients to enjoy their improved physique for years to come.
Candidates for Liposuction
Candidacy for abdominal liposuction is determined by many factors. Surgeons consider the persistence of fatty tissue in the midsection to be the most important factor in determining whether or not it is necessary. If you have exhausted the traditional methods of dieting, calorie reduction, and increased exercise, and are still not able to eradicate torso fat, then abdominal liposuction may be what you need to help you reach your body goals. (3) Whatever your reasons may be, Dr. Wells and her team look forward to helping you redefine your silhouette through liposuction.
Patients within a 15-30% range of their goal weight, who are nonsmokers, above 18 years old, and are generally unhappy with their midsection usually respond to the procedure best. (1)
Liposuction procedure plans differ greatly from person to person because they are tailored to best meet each patient’s unique needs. Prior to your consultation with Dr. Wells, we recommend considering some of the following:
- What part of my torso do I want to target?
- What is my goal body image?
- For smokers: Am I willing to quit prior to and following my treatment?
- Am I comfortable with the treatment plan?
- Will liposuction give me the results I’m looking for?
Depending on the amount of excess skin you have in your abdomen, and if the muscles have separated as a result of pregnancy, a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) may be necessary to remove excess skin. To learn more about abdominal liposuction and discuss your individual needs, please contact Dr. Wells and her team at Valley Plastic Surgery at (410) 628-8200.
Preparation
- Adjusting medication usage: Certain medications and supplements may interfere with the surgery or recovery process, so it is crucial to discontinue them as instructed.
- Quitting smoking: Smoking can impair circulation and delay healing, so patients are advised to quit smoking several weeks before the procedure and throughout the entire recovery period.
- Blood tests and medical evaluations: Dr. Wells may request additional tests or evaluations before surgery to ensure your safety and suitability for the procedure.
- Arrange post-operative support: Patients should make necessary arrangements for transportation to and from the surgical facility, as well as arrange for someone to stay with them during the initial stage of recovery if needed.
- Prepare a recovery space: Creating a comfortable space in your home for post-operative recovery, including essential supplies and aids, can contribute to a smoother healing process.
- Follow dietary guidelines: Dr. Wells may provide specific dietary instructions to follow in the days leading up to surgery, helping minimize potential risks and ensure a successful outcome.
Abdominal Liposuction Procedure
Liposuction methods may differ based on each individual’s circumstances, but all will follow a similar structure. After the administration of local anesthesia, Dr. Wells will inject a tumescent fluid to numb the surrounding skin before making a small incision for the insertion of the cannula. Through these small incisions, Dr. Wells will sculpt the midsection and contour the abdomen for a smoother, slimmer look. Once the necessary amount of fat has been removed, Dr. Wells will close the incisions and you can begin your recovery.
Recovery
- Post-Operative Care Instructions: Following your detailed aftercare instructions is crucial for successful recovery. These instructions may include using compression garments, taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, avoiding strenuous activities, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
- Rest and Recovery: It is essential to take time off work and other responsibilities to allow the body to heal properly. Patients should rest and limit physical activity, especially in the first few days after surgery.
- Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising around the treated area are common after the procedure. These usually resolve gradually over several weeks.
- Pain Management: Dr. Bonnor may prescribe pain medications to manage any discomfort during the recovery period.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Bonnor are essential to monitor healing progress, remove any sutures, and ensure optimal results.
Results
You will notice the results of your abdominal liposuction almost instantly. While there may be some swelling and bruising, you’ll notice a toned, slimmer physique as the healing process completes. Dr. Wells will permanently remove fat cells from your midsection. However, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle through increased activity and healthy eating habits to maintain your results in the long term.
Cost of Abdominal Liposuction in Baltimore
As liposuction is highly individualized, the cost of your procedure will vary according to your treatment plan. Dr. Wells will give you a cost estimate for your procedure as you discuss your personal goals, target areas, and amount to remove at your consultation. Schedule yours today or call us at (410) 628-8200 for more information.
References
- Bartow MJ, Raggio BS. Liposuction. PubMed. Published 2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563135/
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Practice Advisory on Liposuction: Executive Summary https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/medical-professionals/health-policy/key-issues/Executive-Summary-on-Liposuction.pdf
- Bellini E, Grieco MP, Raposio E. A journey through liposuction and liposculture: Review. Annals of Medicine and Surgery. 2017;24:53-60. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amsu.2017.10.024
- Chia CT, Neinstein RM, Theodorou SJ. Evidence-Based Medicine: Liposuction. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 2017;139(1):267e. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/PRS.0000000000002859
