Liposuction in St. Louis, MO

Liposuction is a technique used to remove unwanted subcutaneous fat deposits on various parts of the body. Suction lipectomy can be used to target stubborn fat deposits that are otherwise unresponsive to diet and exercise. Liposuction can permanently re-define those stubborn areas of localized fat. A patient can still gain weight after this procedure, but it is often no longer in those localized, troublesome areas as those fat cells have been permanently removed. Results from this procedure are impactful, while causing little weight change overall. 

Dr. Hulsey uses power-assisted liposuction while using the SAFELipo is a technique. This method is used to safely reduce fat, and reshape the fat that remains to avoid contour irregularities that can be seen after liposuction surgery. The SAFE in SAFELipo stands for separation, aspiration, and fat equalization.

• First, the fat that is being targeted for removal is separated from surrounding tissue using a cannula
• The separated fat is then aspirated, or suctioned out. Because it has already been loosened, the fat removal at this stage is much easier and less traumatic.
• Finally, the remaining fat is equalized to ensure the overlying skin is even and smooth. Dr. Hulsey redistributes remaining fat across the treatment area, creating a smooth layer of fat beneath the skin. This reduces the risk of dimpling and other contour irregularities. 

Candidates for liposuction are at or near their ideal body weight. Dr. Hulsey advises that patients have a BMI of less than 30, or be close to their ideal weight. Liposuction is not a weight-loss method, but instead removes stubborn fat that remains after diet and exercise.  In addition to being near or at their goal weight, patients are advised to establish and maintain healthy dietary and exercise habits.  Patients should not smoke for an extended period of time before and after the surgery in order to limit risks for complications and promote proper healing during recovery.  Although there is no age cap on liposuction in Missouri, the ideal results require good skin elasticity. With older patients with inelastic skin, the skin may not redrape well and a secondary skin tightening procedure may be necessary. 

The patient can typically go home right after the liposuction procedure. We recommend that our patients arrange for a friend or family member to drive them home, and to stay with them for the first day or two of their recovery process.

Moderate swelling, bruising, and fluid accumulation are normal immediately following surgery You will feel sore for 1-2 weeks, and the area will be swollen for up to 6-12 weeks. Dr. Hulsey  will instruct you on how to use compression garments to mediate swelling and promote proper healing. As a general timeline, Dr. Hulsey suggests that patients:

• Wait one to two weeks before returning to work (depending on the nature of the patient’s profession)
• Wait two or more weeks before engaging in more strenuous activity
• Wear postoperative compression garments for four to six weeks

Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled so Dr. Hulsey can closely monitor your recovery progress. 

The most common complications include: 

• Contour irregularities or uneven results
• Scarring
• Bleeding
• Delayed healing
• Seroma (fluid collection)

Dr. Hulsey works closely with all of her patients to mitigate these risks, and find the right procedure to fit their needs.