Liposuction

There are several types of liposuction techniques. Traditional liposuction, commonly referred to as suction-assisted liposuction, (SAL), utilizes a vacuum-like cannula to remove unwanted fat after it has been injected with saline. The most recent development in liposuction is the use of ultrasonic waves to melt unwanted fat. The technique, commonly referred to as ultrasound-assisted liposuction, (UAL), uses a cannula-like device to deliver the sound waves to specific areas of fat that have been injected with a saline solution. Once the fat has been melted, it is then suctioned from the body.

The information provided will give you a basic understanding of the procedure but it can’t answer all of your questions, since a lot depends on your individual circumstances. For more information, view the “Frequently Asked Questions” or visit his “Resource Library” for related articles, web sites and video clips.
Am I a good candidate for liposuction?

Dr. Rohrich believes that liposuction can give you the “boost” you need to further improve your self image. He believes it is vitally important to have a proper diet and exercise regimen to obtain the maximal results for body contouring surgery.

Your visit with Dr. Rohrich will determine if you are a good candidate. If you are within 15 to 20 pounds of your optimal body weight and in good physical and mental health with reasonable expectations you should be an appropriate candidate. Before you decide to have surgery, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with Dr. Rohrich.

Liposuction Consultation?

During your consultation, you will learn in depth about the liposuction surgery, its advantages and disadvantages, and discuss your particular needs and concerns. Dr. Rohrich first and foremost wants to hear specifically from you the areas of your body you feel need improvement. This will help him understand your expectations and determine whether they realistically can be achieved. He will examine you and consider such factors as the quality of your skin tone and the contour of your body. He will explain which surgical techniques are most appropriate for you to give you the best result.

After your consultation a photographer will take photographs to be used for your medical record and surgical planning and you will meet with Dr. Rohrich’s patient coordinator to discuss the surgery fees and scheduling dates. You may also schedule an additional consultation to view computer imaging so that you can visualize the results of the surgical technique that Dr. Rohrich has specifically designed for you.

You should come to the consultation prepared to discuss your medical history. This will include information about any medical conditions, drug allergies, medical treatments you have received including previous surgeries and medications that you currently take. It is important for you to provide complete information.

How is the surgery performed?

General anesthesia is used for patients undergoing liposuction surgery. Dr. Rohrich only uses board-certified anesthesiologists who are familiar with his technique and operative rhythm to maximize his patient’s safety and operative efficiency. You will meet your anesthesiologist before surgery so that he/she may get to know you better and answer any questions you may have. Prior to anesthesia, Dr. Rohrich will mark the areas to be treated on you with a surgical marker. Once you are under a general anesthesia, a salt-water solution containing local anesthesia and adrenaline is injected into the areas to be treated and small, inconspicuous incisions are made for the insertion of the cannula. The cannula, which is connected to an ultrasound generator, is inserted beneath the skin and the ultrasound application causes the walls of the fat cells to break down and melt. This melted fat combined with the injected fluid creates an emulsion that is removed from the body by low vacuum pressure. After the procedure, the incisions are closed and you are dressed into a compression garment which helps to reduce swelling.