Liposuction
Despite a consistent routine involving an active and healthy lifestyle, many individuals still struggle with areas of fat that they cannot tone away. These stubborn fat pockets are often resistant to exercise and a nutrient-rich diet, which can be discouraging when trying to achieve a well-defined physique. Our board-certified plastic surgeon in Corpus Christi, Dr. Cassidy Hinojosa, performs liposuction to eliminate excess fatty tissue from virtually any area of the body to achieve firmer, smoother, more defined contours.
- What is Liposuction?
- Liposuction Treatment Areas
- Liposuction Procedure
- Liposuction Recovery
- Liposuction Cost
What is Liposuction?
Liposuction is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to remove unwanted fat from the face and body for a more sculpted, defined appearance. During treatment, a thin tube called a cannula is inserted through small incisions to break up, remove, and recontour localized fat pockets with a gentle suction to provide natural-looking results. It is important to note that liposuction is typically most effective for patients who are at or near their ideal weight, and it should not be considered as a weight loss solution.
What Areas Can Liposuction Treat?
One of the main benefits of liposuction is how versatile the procedure can be for removing fatty tissue to support an array of aesthetic enhancements. At our practice in Corpus Christi, Dr. Hinojosa offers liposuction for a broad range of areas, including:
- Abdomen
- Chin
- Neck
- Flanks (“love handles”)
- Arms
- Back
- Hips
- Inner and outer thighs
- Buttocks
- Bra-line areas
Liposuction can be used to diminish both small and large pockets of stubborn fat accumulation, depending on the area and the patient’s desired goals. Dr. Hinojosa can offer more precise recommendations after a thorough evaluation during your personal consultation.
How is the Liposuction Procedure Performed?
Liposuction is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. The procedure begins with carefully selecting the incision sites based on the regions of interest and planning for minimal visible scarring upon healing. Dr. Hinojosa will insert a specialized cannula through small incisions with meticulous guidance and technique, such as power-assisted liposuction (PAL), suction-assisted liposuction (SAL) with a tumescent solution, or VASER® liposuction. Each method is focused on providing an optimized result for the patient as Dr. Hinojosa breaks down and removes excess fat cells. The length of surgery will depend on the size and number of areas to be treated, the details of which will be confirmed prior to the day of the procedure.
What is Recovery After Liposuction Like?
Generally, recovery after liposuction is well-tolerated by most patients as the necessary incisions are quite small and no surgical alterations are made to the underlying muscles. As with most incisional procedures, it is normal to expect some degree of swelling, bruising, and discomfort or tenderness, but these symptoms should fade with time. Wearing your post-surgical compression garments as directed to protect the incision site(s), prevent additional swelling, and shape the new contours can be essential to a successful healing process.
Depending on the nature of the treatment plan, patients can often return to work within a few days after the procedure. However, depending on the volume of fat removed and the number of areas treated, this timeline can differ. Dr. Hinojosa can provide more specific timelines during a consultation and/or during your post-surgery follow-up appointments.
How Much Does Liposuction Cost?
The estimated average cost of liposuction in Texas is around $7,300*. However, the total cost of treatment varies based on a number of different factors. During a personal consultation, Dr. Hinojosa will develop a treatment plan based on your medical history and comprehensive aesthetic goals. At that point, our team can provide a price quote that includes the scope of the liposuction procedure(s), liposuction technique, anesthesia, lab tests, and other fees for the surgeon, facilities, etc.
For patients that wish to combine liposuction with additional procedures—such as a tummy tuck and/or breast augmentation, as part of a mommy makeover plan—Dr. Hinojosa can explain the full range of costs so there is a clear picture of all pricing. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is available to discuss financing options for qualified applicants through our third-party lenders, CareCredit® and PatientFi®, and review any other payment questions you may have.
To learn more about achieving beautifully refined contours with a liposuction procedure, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hinojosa, please contact us today.
