Large volume liposuction - what should I prepare for?

Question

5'6/Afr. Amer/ f/ 40/ healthy/245lbs/fies not smoke nor drink any alcohol. The main reason why i want a large volume lipo done is because i dread the summer when i perspire "down below" heavy because of this gut that hangs so low. it is very uncomfortable to wear panties and other garments because they will roll. I am finished with children now. I just eant to work on "me". What should i prepare for and how much would this cost me?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

You need a formal evaluation by an expert in body shaping and contouring to determine what is best. You will likely need to lose weight first before undergoing any cosmetic procedure to get the best outcome. For best results, it is recommended to be at your ideal or stable weight before getting a sculpting liposuction procedure. Liposuction is not a weight loss procedure; rather, it is for sculpting, defining and removing problem areas that cannot be removed with weight loss, diet and exercise alone. If skin is very loose before surgery, then it will need to be removed: tummy tuck/abdominoplasty for lower abdominal skin; breast lift for excess breast skin; and/or a brachioplasty for loose arm skin. In the meantime, I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a bariatric doctor or dietitian. Best, Dr. Emer​

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Phenomenal490809,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. To provide a valid medical opinion I will need to see pictures of you body from different angles. I would suggest to be treated by board certified plastic surgeon with experience in this procedure, to get the best desired results.

Respectfully,
Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Respectfully,
Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Liposuction can remove 10 lbs safely during one session. This is done on an out-patient basis, takes about 2 hours to perform and cost $4,000-$7,000. Liposuction can be repeated if needed or desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Garrett Jones, DO · Answer

Large volume liposuction is a significant surgical procedure. Here’s what you should prepare for:1. Consultation: Start by consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals, expectations, and potential risks.2. Medical evaluation: Your surgeon will assess your overall health, review medical history, and may order tests to ensure you’re a suitable candidate.3. Pre-operative instructions: Follow any specific pre-surgery instructions provided by your surgeon, which might include dietary restrictions, medication adjustments, and lifestyle changes.4. Recovery planning: Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and help you during the initial recovery period.5. Clothing: Pack loose, comfortable clothing for the day of surgery and post-op period. Avoid tight-fitting clothes that can rub against the treated areas.6. Medications: Prepare any prescribed pain medications, antibiotics, and over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended by your surgeon.7. Compression garments: Purchase the compression garments your surgeon recommends to reduce swelling and aid in recovery.8. Post-op care: Plan for post-operative care, including follow-up appointments and potential drainage tubes or dressings.9. Emotional support: Understand that recovery may involve physical and emotional challenges, so having a support system in place is crucial.10. Recovery time: Allocate enough time off work or other responsibilities as large volume liposuction may require a longer recovery period compared to regular liposuction.Always consult with your surgeon for guidance specific to your situation.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

You didn’t include pictures so making an assessment is going to be limited. Based on what you’ve stated you are not a particularly good candidate for Liposuction.

Patients who have not mastered Weight loss successfully are more likely to regain the weight after liposuction and though it will be in a new fat distribution.

Most plastic surgeons limit Liposuction to taking that no more than 5 L of fat. This and sub typically being 10 pounds of fat or less. In reality a high-volume a liposuction procedure will bring you from 245 pounds to 235 pounds if you do not regain the weight.

Prices vary based on geographic location and what provider you choose.  you can probably expect to see prices varying between $5000-$25,000.  The real question is does it make sense to spend thousands of dollars to lose 10 pounds of fat and someone who is 245 pounds.

Even without seeing pictures I can tell you that most likely your best option for looking and feeling better about yourself is weight loss followed by an assessment for a full abdominoplasty or tummy tuck.

You’re most likely be able to find someone to take your money and offer Liposuction. It’s a free market and enough plastic surgeons are motivated by financial gain.

You simply are not a good liposuction candidate and that should be made clear in the name of patient advocacy.

For weight loss I recommend people talk to their primary care physicians and find local support networks of others who have gone through the journey successfully. losing weight can be a challenge but lots of people have done it successfully and everyone is capable with enough effort and commitment.

Best,

Mats Hagstrom MD

Robert T. Buchanan, MD (retired) · Answer

You are not a candidate for liposuction for a number of reasons. First, even if you did liposuction the areas of concern, you would still have the problem "down there" because the the "gut that hangs so low" does so because you have significant excess skin, not just fat. Liposuction will only make this worse. Secondly, your greatest accumulation of fat is intraabdominal, not external where liposuction can get to it. Thirdly, though you say you are "healthy," no one with a BMI of 40 is really healthy. The first thing you need to do is loose weight to closer to a BMI of 25, essentially loss of 95 pounds to about 150 pounds. After that, you will need a panniculectomy (removal of the hanging skin) or a tummy tuck. If you look hard enough you will find someone to do your liposuction, but I highly caution you not to as you will be risking your life and will not be happy with the result.

Large volume liposuction - what should I prepare for?

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