Houston Liposuction / Body Contouring and Abdominoplasty

Body Contouring Procedures

Liposuction, or "lipoplasty," is a procedure used by plastic surgeons to remove unwanted and stubborn areas of fat from the body and re-contour the area, most often in the abdomen, hips, waist, buttocks, thighs, knees, upper arms, chin, cheeks and neck.

Liposuction is not a substitute for dieting and exercising and can be of risk for patients who suffer from diabetes, heart or lung disease, circulation problems or recent heart surgery patients. Dr. Newall will review your medical history to determine if you are a candidate for liposuction.

During the procedure, Dr. Newall will make tiny incisions to insert a narrow tube, called a cannula, that is used to vacuum fat from deep below the skin. The cannula breaks up fat cells and then they are suctioned out from the body.

New Techniques in Liposuction

Tumescent Technique

The tumescent technique is a more recent method of liposuction in which Dr. Newall injects areas where excess fat occurs with controlled amounts of a special fluid, which causes the fat to become very firm, or "tumesced" so it is easier to remove through the cannula. The fluid also reduces the amount of blood that is lost during the procedure and lessens the chances for post-op bruising.

The injected fluid also contains pain medication to reduce discomfort experienced in the 18 to 24 hours after the tumescent technique is used. Patients are instructed to wear a girdle after surgery for at least six weeks. The pressure of the girdle against the skin causes the tiny tunnels to collapse, and as the tissue contracts, a slimmer appearance is created.
Dr. Newall will discuss with you any risks that may be involved with the tumescent technique, including complications that can result from traditional liposuction, such as infection, blood clots and fluid accumulation.

Ultrasonic Liposuction

Ultrasonic liposuction, or Ultrasound Assisted Liposuction (UAL), became popular in the United States in 1997. UAL converts ultrasonic energy into heat, letting fat cells so they can more easily be suctioned away. Benefits of UAL include minimal blood loss and less bruising, but as will all procedures, there are also associated risks. Ask Dr. Newall if UAL is right for you.

Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

Abdominal liposuction, or "tummy tuck," is a common procedure for patients who desire a flatter and more-toned stomach. Abdominoplasty removes excess skin from the mid and lower abdomen, while tightening the abdominal muscles.

Men and women who diet and exercise but still can't lose large fat deposits or tighten loose skin in the abdomen are the best candidates for abdominoplasty. Dr. Newall will discuss with you any risks that may be involved with this procedure, as well as talk with you about your weight loss plans, if any. It is important to know that a permanent scar will result from the procedure.

Liposculpting the Athletic Abdomen: Abdominal Etching