Why Do People Get Liposuction?
Localized fat deposits become more common as we age, and more difficult to eliminate through diet and exercise. Often, these areas of localized fat have more to do with genetics than with lifestyle.
Liposuction is one of the most popular plastic surgeries in the country, providing a way to target and remove unwanted fat deposits, particularly those that do not respond well to diet and exercise. Liposuction may be the best way to achieve the figure you desire, and to regain a sense of confidence in your appearance.
Am I a Good Candidate?
During an initial consultation, Dr. Hopkins will verify your eligibility for a safe and successful procedure. The best candidates for liposuction:
- Have specific areas of excess fat that they wish to address
- Have a stable body weight and a generally healthy lifestyle
- Are in good health overall
- Do not smoke
- Have realistic expectations about what liposuction can do
Our Liposuction Process Explained
The Consultation
Your treatment journey will begin with a consultation, and you will meet one-on-one with Dr. Hopkins in Dallas to discuss your treatment options and verify your eligibility for surgery. During this meeting, Dr. Hopkins will perform a physical examination, ask about your medical history, and discuss your aesthetic goals. This is also a great opportunity to ask any questions you may have about treatment and recovery.
What Should I Do in Preparation?
During your consultation, Dr. Hopkins will advise you on any steps you need to take for a successful procedure. You may be asked to abstain from certain supplements and medications or cease using tobacco products.
What Is Surgery Like?
For liposuction, you will be placed under anesthesia, ensuring your comfort throughout the procedure. Dr. Hopkins will make a small incision near the area targeted for fat removal, through which the liposuction applicator can be inserted. Excess fat and tissue are carefully suctioned out of the body, leaving you with a more streamlined silhouette.
What Should I Expect in Terms of Recovery?
Most people who have liposuction are ready to resume their normal activities after a week or so, though you will need to abstain from heavy lifting and vigorous exercise for at least six weeks. Some physical discomfort can be anticipated, but this is easy to manage with over the counter or prescription medications.
How Long Will My Results Last?
Liposuction results are often long-lasting, with patients able to see a difference in their body contours for years after the procedure. However, these outcomes will depend on lifestyle choices and overall health. Eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly can help maintain your liposuction results for a longer duration.
Meet Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Hopkins
Dr. Jeffrey Hopkins is a triple board-certified plastic surgeon, holding certifications from the American Board of Plastic Surgery in both Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Hand Surgery, along with the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. He serves in active positions in the Texas Medical Association, Dallas County Medical Society, and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. To date, Dr. Hopkins has performed more than 6,000 plastic surgery procedures, in a career spanning over 20 years.
Liposuction FAQs
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How long does the liposuction procedure take?
Depending on how many areas of the body you choose to address, and the amount of fat that needs to be removed, liposuction surgery can take between 45 minutes and 2 and a half hours.
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What happens if I gain weight after having liposuction?
The good news is that when Dr. Hopkins removes fat through liposuction, that fat is gone for good! You don’t grow new fat cells. However, your existing fat cells can increase in size, so it is possible to negate your liposuction results if you gain a significant amount of weight after having the procedure. The ultimate goal of liposuction is to better define and contour the body. So if you gain a small amount of weight, those contours could be less noticeable, but your results will not be lost.
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Will I have loose or sagging skin after liposuction?
Liposuction, when performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon like Dr. Hopkins, causes the skin to retract and conform to the underlying tissue; therefore, if you have good skin elasticity you will not experience sagging after your procedure. During your consultation with Dr. Hopkins, he will examine your skin and determine its elasticity to ensure you have positive results. If he decides that your skin is too loose and may not retract, he will likely recommend additional treatment.
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When can I resume my normal exercise regimen after I have liposuction?
Dr. Hopkins recommends that all of his patients get up and start moving the same day as their procedure to encourage healing. However, you should not do any activity beyond walking. Once Dr. Hopkins examines you at your follow up appointment, he will determine when you can resume your normal exercise program. Most Dallas patients are able to hit the gym within 2 weeks after their procedure.
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When will I be able to see my results?
Remember, everyone’s body is different, and everyone heals differently from surgery, so how quickly you will see your results will be determined by your specific genetics. That being said, most Dallas patients are able to see a difference in their body shape within one month after the swelling from the procedure has reduced. Final results are typically visible within 6-12 months.
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Are There Any Risks Involved?
Any surgical procedure brings some level of risk, but liposuction is one of the most common plastic surgeries in the world. You can significantly minimize your risk by choosing a well-credentialed surgeon and carefully adhering to all aftercare instructions.
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Will I Need to Request Extensive Time Off from Work?
Most patients are ready to resume their normal day-to-day activities within one to two weeks.
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Will I Have Scars After the Surgery?
While you can expect minor scarring, Dr. Hopkins will position your incisions to minimize their visibility.
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Does My Insurance Cover the Procedure?
While all insurance policies differ, most will not cover cosmetic procedures, such as liposuction. You are always welcome to call our office with any questions about insurance or financing.
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Is Getting Liposuction Really Worth It?
Only you can determine whether liposuction is worth it, but virtually all patients who have liposuction from Dr. Hopkins are highly satisfied with their results.
You’re in Good Hands with Dr. Hopkins
Liposuction can help you achieve the figure you have always wanted and eliminate the stubborn fat deposits that diet and exercise do not address. To schedule a liposuction consultation with Dr. Hopkins in Dallas, contact us at (972) 298-6641.
Contact J. Hopkins Plastic Surgery at our Dallas offices to inquire about a liposuction procedure you want and deserve. Call us today at (972) 298-6641.
*Individual results may vary.
“Our daughter is a patient of Dr. Hopkins. He is probably THE best physician we have ever encountered. He is meticulous, very knowledgeable and so very, very kind. I would go so far as to say he is OCD with his abilities and how he treats patients which is awesome. He also does not have the typical doctor ego, which we hate. He explains things and always asks if you have questions. He also is judgement free which is also greatly appreciated. If you are looking for a solid plastic surgeon for cosmetic or wound issues, we highly recommend him.”
- Cliff M.“Dr Hopkins is an excellent surgeon. I’ve worked with him for years. He is very meticulous in his work. He spends a lot of time with his patients and family members. He gives high quality care to his patients whether they are cash pay, insured, or uninsured. His office staff give the same quality care. They are quick to respond and efficient. Dr Hopkins and his staff are true blessings to the community they serve.”
- Holly C.“I was very nervous coming in as a patient but
- Janai M.Dr. Hopkins and his office staff made me feel very comfortable and at ease. They were very polite and made me feel at home and answered every question that I had. I loveeee my results and if I need anything done in the future he will be the person I go too. From beginning to end the service was amazing.”