We are a society obsessed with image and staying thin.
When diet and exercise doesn't seem to be working, many people turn to plastic surgery for a helping hand in obtaining their ideal slender physique. According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, liposuction is the most popular cosmetic procedure in the world. It is important to note that liposuction is not a weight loss technique; it is a reshaping technique.
So, having a lot of excess fat doesn't make you a good candidate for liposuction; in fact, it is actually the opposite. Individuals who maintain a healthy lifestyle but have a few problem areas make the best candidates because their skin is more firm and elastic.
There are two layers of subcutaneous (lying under the skin) fat: deep and superficial. In a typical procedure, the doctor makes a tiny incision and inserts a hollow, stainless-steel tube (cannula) into the deep fat layer, because there is less risk of injuring the skin. The doctor pushes and pulls the tube through the fat while breaking down fat cells, and a "vacuum" pump or syringe removes the fat with suction.
The liposuction heals in a few weeks, but be prepared for a considerable amount of bruising and swelling. You may also experience lumpy skin and numbness for several months following the procedure.
Liposuction is generally not covered by health insurance. The cost varies based on the areas worked on, amount of fat removed, the state you live in and the doctor performing the procedure.
Renowned Chicago plastic surgeon, Dr. Peter Geldner, MD, shares the latest technologies and techniques of liposuction, plus the risks and complications you need to know before undergoing the procedure.
Liposuction: Facts You Need to Know
You would think having a lot of excess fat would make you a good candidate for liposuction. Unfortunately, that's not the case.
Additional Info
- Segment Number: 1
- Audio File: staying_well/1333sw1a.mp3
- Featured Speaker: Peter D. Geldner, MD
- Organization: University of Chicago, Department of Surgery: Plastic Surgery
- Guest Website: The Geldner Center
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Guest Bio:
Leading the charge in life-changing enhancement and progressive, patient-focused care, Peter D. Geldner, MD, is one of Chicago's premier plastic surgeons and founder of The Geldner Center in Chicago, IL. With more than 20 prestigious years in the field and specializing in cosmetic surgery of the breast, body, and face, Dr. Geldner collaborates with patients to assure the proper procedure is performed and the best results are achieved.
Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery in 1993, Dr. Geldner serves as Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Surgery at the University of Illinois, Chicago. He is also Clinical Instructor at the University of Chicago, Department of Surgery, Section of Plastic Surgery.
A native of Warsaw, Poland and raised in Israel, Dr. Geldner immigrated to the United States at age six and went on to attend Johns Hopkins University. After receiving his Bachelor of Arts in Science, Dr. Geldner continued his studies at the University of Wisconsin at Madison Medical School. Upon graduation, his training led him to the University of Chicago where he served as a General Surgery Resident and began his plastic surgery residency. Following in the footsteps of his mentor, Dr. Geldner furthered his experience at Wayne State University in Detroit and the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, where he completed his residency in plastic and reconstructive surgery. However, the pull of the Windy City drew Dr. Geldner back to the Midwest, as he honed his expertise at Michael Reese Hospital, near the South Side, ultimately becoming the Chief of Plastic Surgery prior to its closure. Additional hospital affiliations include Mercy Hospital and Medical Center and Illinois Masonic Hospital in Chicago.
In 2003, Dr. Geldner opened The Geldner Center to practice and provide plastic surgery in a concierge setting, ensuring the best interest of patients remain at the forefront of care and treatment plans. It is the discovery of each patient's goal – and how Dr. Geldner can best meet such requests – that he finds most rewarding.
Under the direction of Dr. Geldner and his colleague, Lawrence H. Iteld, M.D., The Geldner Center has emerged as the premier practice of plastic, reconstructive, cosmetic surgery and aesthetic procedures, with a unique concierge characteristic that prioritizes patients' needs clinically, emotionally, and logistically. With two locations (Chicago and Hinsdale) that boast an impressive offering of services, highly qualified and personable doctors, staff and esthetician, and an unparalleled level of commitment, accessibility, and attention to patients, The Geldner Center has established itself as a leader in the field, while cultivating a loyal clientele and consistent referral process.
A nationally recognized expert in plastic and cosmetic surgery, Dr. Geldner has appeared in numerous publications and media outlets, including: ABC, Fox News, NBC, WGN, Chicago Magazine, Chicago Social, Chicago Tribune, Life & Style Weekly, The Learning Channel, the Jenny Jones Show, and Larry King Live. Dr. Geldner is the former President of the Chicago Society of Plastic Surgeons and proudly serves as an active member of the American Medical Association, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and the Illinois Society of Plastic Surgeons. Also a published author, Dr. Geldner has been recognized as one of Castle Connelly America's Top Surgeons and Top Plastic Surgeons in 2008 and 2009, as well as a Castle Connelly Top Doctor in 2008 and 2009. He resides with his wife and two sons in River Forest. - Length (mins): 10
- Waiver Received: Yes
- Host: Melanie Cole, MS
Published in
Staying Well
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