Liposuction by Melissa Johnson MD, FACS
Liposuction in Longmeadow, MA
Liposuction is a surgical procedure to remove unwanted deposits of fat from specific areas of the body including the face, neck, upper arms, trunk, abdomen, buttocks, hips, thighs, knees, calves and ankles. The best candidates for liposuction are individuals of relatively normal weight who have excess fat in particular body areas. There are a variety of surgical techniques for liposuction. These procedures include, but are not limited to, suction-assisted lipectomy and tumescent liposuction.
Localized fat deposits can create disproportionate contours. These areas of excess fatty tissue can be due to heredity, rather than a lack of weight control or fitness. If you are bothered bu excess fat deposits that don't respond to diet or exercise, liposuction may be right for you. Treatment areas and techniques vary and Dr. Johnson will consult with you to assess your individual needs.
Liposuction FAQs
Liposuction before & after photos
All photos are of procedures performed at Pioneer Valley Plastic Surgery
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Am I a good candidate for liposuction?
Liposuction removes unwanted fat that has not responded to diet and exercise. If you are unhappy with a particular area or areas of your body, liposuction can help reshape that area. Liposuction, however, is not a weight loss procedure. We recommend that you be at an ideal and stable weight. During your consultation, we will discuss whether you are a good candidate for liposuction, the liposuction surgical process, and any possible risks or complications of the surgery.
Will I be seen by the surgeon?
Yes. Dr. Johnson will meet with you and she will discuss all your surgical options. Dr. Johnson will provide you with the necessary information so that you feel confident and comfortable with your surgical decision.
Will I be charged for an initial consultation?
Yes. There is a $100 consultation fee. If you choose to have liposuction, the $100 will go towards it.
Is the plastic surgeon board certified?
Yes. Dr. Johnson is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and is a proud member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Additionally, she is a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, which recognizes surgeons who specialize in cosmetic plastic surgery.
How should I prepare for a liposuction consultation?
Research on reputable internet sites such as the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons can be very informative to help provide basics about the procedure and your recovery. However, the best information will be obtained by making an appointment and speaking with Dr. Johnson. At the time of your consultation, it may also be helpful to review before and after photos of patients who have had the procedure.
Where will my liposuction be performed?
Dr. Johnson has privileges at Baystate Medical Center and Mercy Medical Center. Both are surgical facilities in Springfield, MA, accredited by the Joint Commission, and have been awarded the Gold Seal of Approval.
Are there different types of liposuction procedures?
Yes, there are a variety of different liposuction techniques available. Dr. Johnson recommends the traditional liposuction procedure. Small stab incisions are made to insert the liposuction cannula into the areas with the fat deposits and the fat is suctioned out. The incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures
What is the surgical process for liposuction?
During surgery you will receive general anesthesia. The surgery will take between 1-2 hours depending on the number of areas to be addressed. Once you are awake you are taken to the recovery room for another 1-2 hours and then discharged home.
Are there risks involved with liposuction?
Yes, there are risks with any surgical procedure. Some of the possible risks with liposuction are pain, infection, bruising, swelling, wound healing complications, bleeding, numbness of the skin, unsatisfactory results or scars that may require a revision surgery, uneven skin contours, or injuries to deeper structures.
What is the recovery process?
The first few days you may have discomfort or achiness to the area treated with liposuction. Initially, you may have extra drainage from the small incision sites. You will have bruising and swelling of the treated areas. You are sent home on pain medications which will decrease your discomfort. We will recommend that you ice the area for the first 72 hours to help minimize swelling. We will also recommend that you wear a compressive garment. We will see you about one week after surgery to evaluate your healing process. We request that you do no strenuous exercise for at least 3 weeks after surgery.
Will my insurance cover lipoplasty?
No. Liposuction is considered a cosmetic procedure. Insurers do not deem this procedure medically necessary.
Can I finance my liposuction procedure?
Yes. We offer patient financing through CareCredit or ALPHAEON CREDIT. See our Financing FAQs for more information.
What forms of payment are accepted?
We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, cash, money orders, and certified bank checks, or you can finance through CareCredit.
Can I make payments online?
Yes. You can make credit card payments securely online.