Liposuction - Cosmetic Body Surgery Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Liposuction is a routine surgery that removes excess body fat and is performed in almost all cosmetic surgery offices to enhance body contours and overall appearance. This article will answer the most frequently asked questions about liposuction.

Will my insurance pay for liposuction?

It is not likely. Almost all forms of liposuction are considered a cosmetic surgery, and most insurance companies do not pay for cosmetic procedures that are not medically necessary. If you have some condition that necessitates having the procedure done, your insurance may pay for it, but it is not a definite.

Does liposuction remove cellulite?

This cosmetic surgery is designed to get rid of excess body fat. It will reduce some of the cellulite in your body, but it will likely not eliminate all of the cellulite that you have.

Is it permanent?

The fat cells that the cosmetic surgeon takes out will not grow back, so that part of it is permanent. The body, however, continues to change as we grow older, so there is always the possibility that the patient will gain more weight and body fat. If this happens, however, they will not accumulate as much fat in the areas that have been operated on as they will in other areas.

Is this a good option for obese people?

No, liposuction is not a good option for people who are obese. It is not effective for people who are unable to lose weight through exercise and diet. While it can remove up to ten pounds, it should not be used to remove any more than that, and people who are considered to be obese have much more than ten pounds of body fat to get rid of. Those who are obese and need help do have surgical options available to them, but this procedure is not one of them.

Will I be in pain for a long time?

Most patients who undergo a cosmetic surgery will have a bit of discomfort for a few days, and this procedure is no different. After three or four days, however, the discomfort will drop dramatically and the patient will feel like moving around again. Most cosmetic surgeons will prescribe a pain medication that the patient can take to help take the edge off any of the discomfort they feel.

How long does the surgery take?

A liposuction surgery can take anywhere from an hour to a few hours, depending on how many areas have to be treated.

To learn more about liposuction as well as facelift, eyelid surgery, and rhinoplasty (nose job), and breast augmentation surgery with breast implants, it is important to visit our Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania plastic surgery office.