Liposuction is a body contouring technique pioneered by dermatologic surgeons that reduces localized fat deposits that are difficult or impossible to remove with diet or exercise. Also known as tumescent liposuction, the procedure is not a technique for treating obesity. During the procedure, a solution is injected under the skin into the fatty tissue, which is then removed. Afterward, the skin is taped or a girdle is worn for support. Patients usually return to work after two to seven days. Ultrasound and massage may be necessary for several months. Sedation is not necessary for the procedure.

Using liposuction, Atlanta Dermatology surgeons can remove larger volumes of accumulated fat from areas such as hips, buttocks, neck, knees, “love handles” or abdomen to improve one’s body contouring when dieting is ineffective. Liposuction can be performed at our Atlanta office as an outpatient procedure with local anesthesia. Advantages of the tumescent liposuction procedure include no blood loss, exceptional safety, rare complications and return to work within 48 hours.

Devices that shrink the skin do not work as well as removing the fat cells with liposuction under local anesthesia. We do not offer an array of these devices because the results are unpredictable. Liposuction of the neck, for example, provides only around three to four days of down time and far exceeds machine tightening with little difference in price.

Liposuction can be used in conjunction with fat transfer.