Target and Sculpt Stubborn Fat for a Proportional, Firm Body Contour
- Fully customizable
- Combine with breast surgery, tummy tuck, or other procedures
- Permanently removes fat cells
- Minimal incisions
Liposuction (lipoplasty) slims and reshapes the body by removing excess fat deposits, most commonly from the thighs, hips, arms, abdomen, back, knees, and neck. The result is a more shapely, proportional, and firm body contour. Although you may exercise regularly and be physically fit, localized fat deposits may remain, which can be due to genetic inheritance rather than weight.
Dr. Kirby Explains: “What is liposuction?”
Liposuction remains one of the top plastic surgery procedures in the nation year after year for its versatility as well as its ability to achieve effective, long-lasting body contouring results. Liposuction offers targeted fat reduction, as it focuses on stubborn fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise. When performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, modern liposuction techniques are minimally invasive, allowing patients to enjoy a faster healing process and a quicker return to daily activities. Liposuction can reduce unwanted fat in the following areas:
- Abdomen
- Flanks (love handles)
- Thighs (inner, outer, and front)
- Waist/Hips
- Belly
- Back (upper and lower)
- Bra line
- Arms (upper arms)
- Chest (including gynecomastia in men)
- Neck and chin (double chin)
- Buttocks
- Knees
- Ankles and calves
Who is a good candidate for liposuction?
People within 30% of their ideal weight who have firm, elastic skin and good muscle tone are the best candidates for liposuction. Liposuction surgery is not a treatment for obesity and is not a replacement for regular exercise and good eating habits.
Meet Dr. Emily Kirby
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
- Founder and Medical Director of Kirby Plastic Surgery, Kalos Medical Spa, and City Surgery Center—a Quad A-accredited, state-of-the-art facility located onsite
- Specialist in breast surgery and body contouring, including postpartum
- Castle Connolly Top Doctor since 2019
- Over 14 years of experience in private practice
- First female Chief of Plastic Surgery, Texas Health Resources Harris Methodist Hospital
“Dr. Kirby and her amazing staff have been an absolute God send! From the first time I stepped into her office I felt welcomed and genuinely comfortable. My biggest fear is that there would be a moment of embarrassment about my needs, but there never was. I had liposuction completed on my abdomen and back, and the results have been life changing to say the least. I feel like I have a new body! Dr. Kirby must have a magic wand she keeps hidden because my results are truly magical. She answered all of my questions throughout the process and has been encouraging and positive through the follow ups. The office staff and nursing staff are also part of the reason why I would recommend Dr. Kirby to anyone and everyone. They are so incredibly helpful and kind! They greet you with a smile at every appointment and are as helpful as possible. If you are considering any type of plastic surgery, search no more, Dr. Kirby is the absolute BEST!”
Your Liposuction Consultation
Your one-on-one consultation takes about one hour. You’ll spend most of that time with Dr. Kirby discussing your goals, concerns, and questions, and learning how she tailors the procedure to address each of these. Dr. Kirby will perform a thorough assessment of your areas of concern and evaluate your skin tone and elasticity to ensure you’re a good candidate for the procedure. She’ll explain the liposuction process in detail, including what to expect before, during, and after surgery, and answer any questions you may have. You’ll also get to meet our nursing staff who will take your vitals and review your medical history, and our patient care coordinator will schedule your procedure and help guide you through the process from start to finish.
Together, you and Dr. Kirby will create a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals. Your consultation is an important first step toward achieving the sculpted, confident look you’ve always wanted.
Dr. Kirby Explains: “What can I expect at a consultation?”
Preparing for Surgery
Prior to any procedure, it is necessary to review the medications you are taking that may affect your surgery. You may be asked to stop or adjust some medications you are on. As always, it is important to include supplements on your list of medications. Aspirin and aspirin products (Alka-Seltzer, Carisoprodol, Excedrin, Goody’s, Midol), anti-inflammatory medications (except acetaminophen, or Tylenol), and herbal supplements must be avoided for 10 days prior to your surgery. Dr. Kirby will discuss your medications with you.
Depending on your medical condition, you may be asked to get lab testing or a medical checkup before your surgery. Tobacco products impair your body’s ability to heal. You will be asked to stop smoking for 6 weeks before any surgery. Tobacco step-down products such as chewing gum continue to provide your body with tobacco and must be stopped as well. Please ask Dr. Kirby if you will need assistance with quitting. Be sure to arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from your surgery. You will need someone to stay with you the night following your surgery as well. You will receive specific instructions for your surgery day from Dr. Kirby’s office.
What to Expect During Your Procedure
Dr. Kirby performs all surgeries in our on-site, state-of-the-art plastic surgery center to ensure you are getting the highest level of care during your procedure.
Anesthesia
Liposuction is typically performed under general anesthesia for optimal comfort. It can also be done using intravenous sedation which gives you medicine through an IV in your arm that makes you drowsy. Dr. Kirby will discuss these options with you so that you can make an empowered choice.
Incision Placement
Several different small incisions are used to perform your liposuction. The incisions are about 5 mm in length, or about the size of a pea. They will be closed with stitches that dissolve after surgery and will not have to be removed. The placement of your incisions is specific to your body and to your surgery. Dr. Kirby will discuss the incision locations with you before your surgery.
Surgery Duration
Liposuction, if performed alone, typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on the areas you have chosen to have treated. Liposuction may be performed in combination with a breast reduction or tummy tuck as well. Combination surgeries will take longer.
What are the risks of liposuction?
The decision to have liposuction is extremely personal and you will need to decide if the benefits will achieve your goals and if the risks and potential complications are acceptable. Possible liposuction risks include: uneven skin contour, rippling or loose skin, skin or nerve damage, skin discoloration, infection, fat clots or blood clots, unfavorable scarring, thermal burn or heat injury from ultrasound with the ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty technique, anesthesia risks, bleeding (hematoma), asymmetry, damage to deeper structures such as nerves, blood vessels, muscles, lungs, and abdominal organs, persistent swelling in the legs, deep vein thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications, and possibility of revisional surgery.
Dr. Kirby Explains: “Liposuction vs. CoolSculpting: Which one is best for me?”
How much does liposuction cost in Fort Worth?
The cost of a liposuction procedure in Fort Worth will depend on the number of areas you are having treated and whether you are combining your liposuction procedure wth any additional breast or body contouring surgeries. We will give you a personalized quote with the exact cost of your procedure at your initial consultation with Dr. Kirby. We also offer plastic surgery financing options to help make paying for your procedure even more straightforward. We will happily answer any questions you have about pricing.
Recovery
After liposuction surgery, you should expect to have some soreness, swelling, and some temporary changes in sensation. Typically you can expect to return to work within a week after your procedure, depending on your occupation. Soreness will likely last for several weeks, though. You will wear a tight post-operative garment following surgery to help your body heal appropriately. Scar massage techniques will be discussed by Dr. Kirby when the timing is appropriate.
Dr. Kirby Explains: “What can I expect in plastic surgery recovery?”
Frequently Asked Questions about Liposuction
How much fat can be removed during liposuction?
Typically, up to 5 liters (about 11 pounds) of fat can be safely removed during a single session, depending on your body and the treated areas.
Will liposuction help me lose weight?
Liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure. It’s designed to contour and sculpt the body by removing stubborn fat deposits.
Can liposuction lower my BMI?
Liposuction may result in a slight decrease in your Body Mass Index (BMI), but it is not intended as a method for significant weight loss or BMI reduction. Its primary purpose is body contouring, not weight management.
What is tumescent liposuction?
Tumescent liposuction is a technique that involves injecting a solution of saline, local anesthetic, and epinephrine into the treatment area. This fluid helps numb the area, reduce bleeding, and loosen fat cells for easier removal, making the procedure safer and more effective.
What type of anesthesia is used for liposuction?
Depending on the extent of the procedure, liposuction may be performed under local anesthesia, general anesthesia, or sedation.
What is the recovery time for liposuction?
Most patients can return to light activities within a few days and resume normal routines, including exercise, within 4 to 6 weeks.
Are the results of liposuction permanent?
Yes, the fat cells removed during liposuction are gone for good. However, maintaining results requires a healthy diet and consistent exercise.
Will I have scars after liposuction?
Liposuction incisions are small and strategically placed to minimize scarring. Any scars typically fade over time with proper care.
Can liposuction treat loose skin?
Liposuction focuses on fat removal and does not tighten skin. If skin laxity is a concern, additional procedures like a tummy tuck may be recommended.
When will I see my results?
Initial results can be seen within weeks, but it may take 3 to 6 months for swelling to fully subside and final results to become apparent.
Is liposuction safe?
When performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Kirby, liposuction is a safe and effective procedure. Risks are minimal when proper techniques and safety protocols are followed.
Book Your Consultation Today!
- Discuss your goals and concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon
- Get a unique female perspective
- Review convenient financing options