Liposuction surgery, also known as liposuction, lipo suction, lipo, lipoplasty, liposculpture, and suction lipetomy is a suction assisted fat removal surgery performed by surgeons at the Straith Clinic. Liposuction is one of our specialties and no other metro Detroit, MI plastic surgery center that performs liposuction can offer the level of care and expertise that our surgeons routinely provide. Our surgeons are expertly trained in procedures that remove undesirable fatty deposits while minimizing conspicuous scars using the traditional tumescent technique and/or ultrasonic assisted liposuction.

Liposuction for fat removal is often used in combination with other cosmetic surgery procedures, such as abdominal surgery (tummy tuck), neck lifts, and thigh lifts. However, liposuction surgery is not an alternative for a tummy tuck, neck lift or thigh lift, which are different procedures involving the manipulation and contouring of skin and surrounding tissue. Our surgeons will provide guidance in determining what procedure path to follow for your unique body type and circumstance.

View our cosmetic liposuction surgery before and after photos on the right on this page.

Areas of the body that liposuction surgery can normalize or improve:

• Arms
• Abdomen, also known as the abdominal area or tummy
• Neck
• Waist area or “love handles” or “flank” area
• Outer and inner thigh area and knee areas

What cosmetic liposuction surgery will not do:

The suction assisted fat removal technique is not a cure for obesity and is not a substitute for weight reduction. Liposuction is not a substitute for abdominal (tummy tuck), neck lift or thigh lift procedures.

Is liposuction fat removal surgery right for me?
Patients of reasonably normal weight with good skin elasticity are the best candidates for lipo suction. Patients that are less than optimal candidates must accept a greater likelihood of skin irregularities in return for a better appearance in clothing. Nearly all areas of the body, with certain exceptions, can be treated.

Liposuction Techniques Used for Fat Removal

Tumescent Liposuction Technique
During the tumescent technique, our liposuction surgeons inject the areas of the fat to be removed with a solution of saline and local anesthetic. This numbs the area, decreases blood loss, and allows for easier fat removal. A suction tube is passed through one or two small incisions and then moved back and forth under the skin to remove the fat.

Power Assisted Liposuction (PAL)
With the power assisted liposuction (PAL) technique, our liposuction surgeons use an oscillating liposuction tip that helps to remove fat more efficiently. It is especially well suited for fibrotic areas and can lessen trauma to tissues.

Ultrasonic-Assisted Liposuction (UAL)
Ultrasonic-assisted liposuction (UAL) is a procedure that uses the tumescent technique and then utilizes high frequency sound waves to liquefy the fat, which is then aspirated by our liposuction surgeons. It is used on selective body areas.

What to expect from liposuction fat removal surgery:

• Anesthesia: Usually local with IV sedation.
• Length of liposuction surgery: 1 to 2 hours, or more.
• In/Outpatient: Generally out-patient in our accredited office operating room suite.
• Recovery: Back to work 1 to 2 weeks. More strenuous activity: 2 to 4 weeks. Full recovery from swelling and bruising: 1 to 6 months or more.

Frequently asked questions about cosmetic liposuction surgery:

Q1: What happens in the liposuction postoperative period?

Some numbness may be present around the operated areas after liposuction. The intensity and duration vary with each individual. If surface imperfections such as skin dimpling, often called "cellulite," are present before surgery, they will remain after.

Q2: When are the sutures removed?

Sutures are minimal and are removed seven to ten days after liposuction surgery by our plastic surgeon. A support type pantyhose is worn immediately after liposuction surgery for four to six weeks, possibly longer.

Q3: When can I take a shower?

A shower can generally be taken the day after cosmetic fat removal surgery. The healing process may cause our surgeon to change these instructions.

Q4: When can I resume my social activities?

Normally, full social and employment activities can be resumed three to five days after liposuction, depending on the extent of surgery. Strenuous exercise and activities such as sports should be avoided for approximately three weeks depending on the extent of the surgery. The healing process, your occupation, and the judgment of our liposuction plastic surgeon may cause the length of time to vary.

The Straith Clinic is one of the premier plastic surgery centers in Detroit, MI, and has always been supported by a highly trained staff of surgeons; a true leader in procedure, safety, and results. Our greatest satisfaction is the interaction we have with our patients and seeing the lives that our cosmetic surgeons have improved over the years. Schedule a free consultation with one of our liposuction surgeons and make the first step towards an improved appearance with higher self esteem. You’ll get answers on the cost of liposuction surgery, recovery time and expectations, or any other issues that concern you. Once you’re at our clinic, you’ll meet with one of our plastic surgeons and they’ll determine if you are a candidate for this liposuction surgery. Call 1-800-401-1212 or fill-in the contact form on the right of the page and a Straith Clinic representative will respond to you promptly. Thanks for considering the Straith Clinic.