PRM Cosmetic Surgery in Los Angeles offers advanced liposuction as a refined approach to body contouring. The procedure targets stubborn fat deposits that resist diet and exercise, helping to enhance natural proportions and create a balanced figure. By incorporating innovative methods, such as tumescent liposuction, our approach prioritizes effectiveness and patient comfort. Focusing on precision and artistry, each treatment is customized to complement natural contours while ensuring minimal downtime.
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Liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess fat deposits from specific body areas to improve proportions. It involves the insertion of a thin tube called a cannula through small incisions to suction out unwanted tissue beneath the skin. The procedure can target stubborn fat pockets in the abdomen, hips, thighs, buttocks, arms, back, and neck. Liposuction is not a weight-loss method or treatment for obesity – it is designed primarily for body contouring. A typical surgery takes one to four hours to complete, depending on the number and size of the target areas.
Tumescent Liposuction
Tumescent liposuction revolutionized the field by injecting a solution containing a local anesthetic, epinephrine, and saline into fatty tissue before extraction. This technique causes the targeted areas to become swollen and firm, making fat removal more precise while minimizing blood loss and patient discomfort. Tumescent approach allows for procedures under local anesthesia, reduces recovery time, and has become the foundation upon which most modern liposuction methods are built.
Ultrasonic-Assisted Liposuction (UAL)
UAL utilizes high-frequency sound waves to liquefy fat cells before removal. A specialized cannula emits ultrasonic energy that selectively targets fat while preserving surrounding tissues and blood vessels. This technique is particularly effective for fibrous areas, such as the male chest, back, and flanks. UAL offers the advantages of more uniform fat removal and improved skin retraction.
Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL)
PAL employs a motorized cannula that rapidly vibrates back and forth, facilitating fat breakdown and removal. This mechanical assistance reduces surgeon fatigue and allows for more efficient procedures, particularly when treating large or dense areas of unwanted tissue. PAL results in shorter operative times and more controlled outcomes, especially for extensive surgeries.
Laser-Assisted Liposuction (LAL)
LAL incorporates laser energy to liquefy fat cells before extraction. Concentrated heat disrupts fatty tissues and stimulates collagen production, providing skin tightening effects. This technique offers reduced bruising, faster recovery, and improved skin retraction compared to traditional methods. LAL is often favored for smaller areas requiring precise contouring.
Tumescent Liposuction
Ultrasonic-Assisted Liposuction (UAL)
Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL)
Laser-Assisted Liposuction (LAL)
Before liposuction, patients undergo a comprehensive preparation process that begins with an initial consultation with our qualified surgeon. During this meeting, we evaluate the patient’s medical history, current health status, and cosmetic goals to determine candidacy for the procedure. The preparation phase typically includes baseline laboratory tests and possibly other diagnostic examinations to ensure the individual is physically fit for surgery.
Patients are generally instructed to avoid certain medications and supplements that could increase bleeding risk, such as aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs, for at least two weeks before the procedure. Smokers are strongly advised to quit consuming tobacco products to promote optimal healing. Additionally, patients receive detailed pre-operative instructions regarding diet, appropriate attire for the day of surgery, and transportation arrangements, as they will not be permitted to operate vehicles immediately after the operation.
Anesthesia
Anesthesia is provided before liposuction to ensure patient comfort. We can offer many options depending on the extent of the treatment area and surgeon preference. Patients usually receive local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
Tumescent Solution
Our surgeon injects large volumes of tumescent solution into the treatment zone until the tissues become firm and swollen. This fluid helps to numb the area, reduce bleeding, and make the fat deposits easier to remove. The tissues are allowed to absorb the solution for approximately 30-45 minutes before the extraction begins, ensuring optimal conditions for the procedure.
Incisions
Small incisions (measuring about 1/8 inch in length) are strategically made near the treatment areas, typically in natural body creases or locations where resulting scars will be less noticeable. These tiny openings serve as entry points for the cannula and are positioned to allow optimal access to the targeted fat deposits.
Removal of Fat Cells
Our surgeon inserts a cannula (thin tube) connected to a vacuum device. Using controlled back-and-forth motions, we carefully maneuver the device through the fatty layer, dislodging cells. This tissue is then suctioned out through the tube. The tumescent technique allows for more precise fat removal and better results than traditional methods.
Contouring
Our surgeon periodically steps back to visually assess the treatment area for symmetry and desired contour throughout the liposuction procedure. This critical evaluation ensures balanced fat removal across the body and helps achieve natural-looking results. We may adjust the technique or focus additional attention on specific areas to create harmonious body proportions.
Closure
Once the desired amount of fat has been removed and appropriate contouring achieved, the small incisions are closed with a few stitches or sometimes left open to allow the remaining tumescent fluid to drain. Compression garments are then applied to the treated areas to control swelling and help the skin conform to the new body contours.
Anesthesia
Tumescent Solution
Incisions
Removal of Fat Cells
Contouring
Closure
Once the desired amount of fat has been removed and appropriate contouring achieved, the small incisions are closed with a few stitches or sometimes left open to allow the remaining tumescent fluid to drain. Compression garments are then applied to the treated areas to control swelling and help the skin conform to the new body contours.
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to enhance breast size and shape using implants or fat transfer. This operation is often combined with liposuction to harvest donor tissue from other body areas before injecting it into the breasts. Fat transfer augmentation can address asymmetry, restore volume lost after pregnancy or weight loss, and improve body proportions.
BBL is a specialized procedure that enhances the size and shape of the buttocks without using implants. The technique involves harvesting fat through liposuction from the abdomen, flanks, or thighs, processing the extracted tissue to isolate healthy cells, and strategically injecting the purified fat into specific areas to create a fuller, more lifted backside. This dual-benefit procedure simultaneously contours the donor sites while enhancing buttock projection and shape.
First 24 Hours
During the initial 24 hours after liposuction, patients typically experience significant swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated areas. Pain medication prescribed by our surgeon helps manage discomfort, while compression garments must be worn continuously to minimize side effects and support the new contours. Patients are advised to rest but should engage in light walking to promote circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. Limited mobility is expected, and assistance with basic activities may be necessary during this period.
Week 1
The first week of recovery involves continued swelling and bruising, though pain generally begins to subside. Compression garments remain essential and should be worn as directed by our surgeon. Most patients can return to light, sedentary work after 3-5 days without strenuous activities. Small amounts of drainage from incision sites are normal during this time. Patients typically attend their first post-operative appointment, where our surgeon assesses their healing progress and may remove any stitches if necessary.
Weeks 2-6
By the seventh day, bruising begins to fade significantly, though swelling persists. Patients can gradually increase their activity levels while avoiding strenuous exercise until approximately the sixth week. Compression garments may still be required, possibly for fewer hours each day. Sensation changes, like numbness or tingling in treated areas, are common during this period and typically improve gradually. By the end of the sixth week, most patients have resumed normal daily activities, including light exercise, though some residual side effects might still be present.
Months 3-6
The final recovery phase spans three to six months post-procedure, during which the swelling slowly subsides and final results become increasingly apparent. Any residual numbness or firmness in the treated areas continues to improve. Patients can engage in all regular activities, including vigorous exercise. The body’s internal healing continues as scar tissue softens and the skin adapts to new contours. By the six-month mark, patients typically see the final results of their procedure. However, minor improvements in contour and sensation may continue for up to a year in some cases.
First 24 Hours
Week 1
Weeks 2-6
Months 3-6
Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes specific body areas through fat removal. While it is not a weight-loss solution, it can be an effective option for individuals seeking plastic surgery to refine their contours. Suitable candidates include:
Targeted Fat Removal
Liposuction offers the unique advantage of removing stubborn fat deposits that resist traditional weight loss methods. Unlike diet and exercise which reduce fat cells throughout the body in a general pattern determined by genetics, this surgery allows us to specifically address problem areas, such as love handles, saddlebags, double chins, or abdominal bulges. This selective approach enables customized body sculpting to address individual aesthetic concerns.
Improved Body Contours
Liposuction refines contours by removing disproportionate fat accumulations, creating more harmonious proportions and smoother silhouettes. While maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise regimen remains essential for overall wellness and weight management, this surgery can correct specific areas and help reveal underlying muscular definition.
Safer Than Traditional Liposuction
Modern liposuction techniques are much safer than traditional methods used decades ago. Tumescent solutions, LAL, PAL, and UAL have dramatically reduced complications and anesthesia-related risks. Our refined approaches involve smaller incisions, more precise targeting of fat deposits, reduced trauma to surrounding tissues, and faster recovery.
Can Be Combined With Other Procedures
Liposuction’s versatility allows it to be effectively combined with other body contouring procedures to achieve comprehensive rejuvenation results. Common add-ons include breast augmentation (to rejuvenate and enhance the breast area) or tummy tuck (to address excess abdominal fat and loose skin). This complementary approach enables us to achieve more dramatic transformations while requiring only a single recovery period, making it an efficient option for patients seeking multiple aesthetic improvements.
Targeted Fat Removal
Improved Body Contours
Safer Than Traditional Liposuction
Can Be Combined With Other Procedures
The cost of liposuction in Los Angeles ranges from approximately $2,000 to over $15,000, depending on various factors, such as the specific areas treated and the complexity of the procedure. More extensive surgeries addressing multiple problem zones involve higher expenses. Los Angeles liposuction centers determine pricing based on the surgeon’s expertise, facility fees, and the extent of fat removal required. Feel free to consult our highly qualified surgeons for an accurate estimate tailored to your needs.
We approach aesthetic plastic surgery with precision, innovation, and personalized care. Each treatment is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring refined enhancements that complement the body’s natural structure. Our skilled Los Angeles plastic surgeons utilize advanced liposuction techniques to create harmonious results tailored to each individual’s unique contours. Every procedure is guided by a commitment to excellence, combining surgical artistry with a deep focus on patient well-being. We always ensure perfect treatment to help each individual achieve their aesthetic goals.
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Dr. Andrew Ordon
Dr. Andrew Ordon is an Emmy® nominated co-host of the award-winning talk show The Doctors. For over three decades, Dr. Ordon has been an acclaimed surgeon in private practice of aesthetics, plastic, and reconstructive surgery. He is consistently recognized as a top doctor by Castle-Connolly, a trusted source for premiere doctors in the United States.
Dr. Andrew Jarminski
Dr. David Henry
Dr. David Feldmar
Dr. Dennis Alwen
dr. Maria M. Diaz
Dr. Maria Diaz is a fellowship trained cosmetic surgeon. She is board certified, a diplomat of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery and is devoted to helping patients achieve their aesthetic goals. A UCLA School of Medicine graduate, Dr. Diaz pursued her passion through a surgical residency and an intensive Cosmetic Surgery Fellowship specializing in facial, body, breast, post-weight loss, mommy makeovers, cosmetic gynecology, and non-surgical treatments.
dr. Maria M. Diaz
