Ultrasonic assisted liposculpting incorporates the use of mechanical energy to liquefy the fat under one's skin. This allows for less bruising, less pain, better skin retraction, and a more even resection of fat. The liquified fat is then removed using small liposuct or cannulas.

Any surgical procedure may involve risks and potential complications. Liposuction is the most commonly performed plastic surgical operation in the United States and is usually quite safe. As with any surgical procedure, risks such as bleeding, thrombophlebitis, infection, nerve damage, etc, can occur and a careful assessment of the potential risks and benefits must be made preoperatively during the consultative process. Aesthetic complications such as skin and fat irregularity can occur. Fortunately, complications are uncommon and most patients are satisfied with their results following liposuction.

About The Procedure
This operation is designed, with the properly selected patient, for the removal of localized fat deposits. It is not performed to lose weight or in lieu of dieting. Rather, it is for the person who has abnormal localized fat deposits which cannot be lost despite adequate diet regimens and exercise programs. Generally, this is a genetic problem; one in which a person is born with a particular body type that manifests itself relatively early in life.

Liposuction can be done as early as the teen years, and while there is no definite upper age limit, generally it should be done while the skin still has good tone and elasticity. The patient is usually extremely self conscious of his or her appearance. This poor body image affects the patient's self image, normal activities, and interpersonal relationships. Many people are afflicted with asymmetries to areas of the body. While body contouring is similar to sculpting, one must realize that unlike with clay or stone exact and precise lines and curves and contours of human tissue is difficult to obtain. Similarly, exact symmetry cannot be assured. Dr. Diaco uses his artistic judgment and technical skill to make improvements so they will be satisfactory from a cosmetic standpoint.

The areas most commonly involved in this kind of surgery are the "saddle bags" or outer thigh areas; the inner thighs; "love handles" or flank areas; hips, abdomen, knees; ankles; buttocks; upper arms. Less common indications are after reduction mammoplasty, if any residual fat is present; gynecomastia (fatty breast in men), and fat under the chin. The procedure is done using the tumescent technique.

Procedure
It is done as an outpatient procedure. It may also be done in conjunction with other procedures.

Surgery Time
Variable according to the number of areas operated on. Approximately one to two hours.

Surgical Procedure
Tiny 1/4 to 1/2 inch incisions are made in inconspicuous areas. Frequently, multiple areas may be reached through one incision. A cannula is inserted through the incision and attached to a suction machine. The cannula is directed to the involved areas and when the suction is applied, the fat is removed from this area VIA the cannula. After adequate contouring is achieved, the incisions are sutured closed.

Postoperative care
At the conclusion of the surgery, pressure dressings are applied either with the use of special foam tape and/or elastic girdles or binders. Tapes are left on one day, girdles for two weeks. Bed rest is required for the first one or two days. Thereafter, limited activity is permitted for the next two weeks. Usual activities may resume in about two weeks post surgery.

The patient undergoing such surgery should expect some soreness for the first day or two which will be alleviated by medication.

You must remain within a reasonable traveling distance of my office for the first week. You may also find answers to minor questions in our Frequently Asked Questions of this site.

Questions Or Problems
Please the office with ANY questions or problems you may have. Don't take "advice" from anyone not directly concerned with your surgery. You must remain within a reasonable traveling distance of the office for one week. You may also find answers to minor questions in our Frequently Asked Questions section of this web site.

Medications
Take all medications exactly as ordered, including those to be taken before your surgery. Do not take aspirin or aspirin containing compounds for 2 weeks before or 3 weeks after your surgery. Acetaminophen ( Tylenol, Valadol, Tempra ) may be used instead. At first sign of hives or a rash, discontinue ALL medications and call the office immediately.

Possible Minor Complications
Collection of blood or fluid in operated areas which may need aspiration with a needle and syringe. Black and blue and swelling in the operated areas is to be expected in all cases. Infection is possible but uncommon. Dr. Diaco will go in to detail about any possible complications, no matter how remote, at the time of your consultation.

Scars
Scars are permanent but are small and should be barely discernible after a reasonable period of time.

Showers And Baths
Since the compression dressings are to be worn continuously for two weeks, Dr. Diaco will advise you when to bathe/shower.

Social Activity
Social activities should be limited the first week and then engaged in moderation. Excessive exercises or exposure to warm areas should be avoided since this causes extreme sweating beneath the bandages. No physical contact sports or swimming should be engaged in for two to three weeks and then ONLY after allowed by Dr. Diaco. Bruised areas should be protected form the sun.

Fees
For more details regarding this procedure, please contact our office to schedule a free consultation with our patient care coordinator. (813) 876-3611.