As men age, fat tends to gather around the abdomen, the breast area, known as gynecomastia, and the flanks, or “love handles”. Male liposuction is a way to shape and contour the body, producing dramatic changes in a small amount of time by removing stubborn fatty deposits under the skin. In men, the most common areas of liposuction are the lower back (love handles), abdomen, chest, and chin.
Vaser liposuction (ultrasonic) and Smartlipo (laser) are types of liposuction that use heat to liquify the fat prior to removal. The heat promotes collagen production and skin tightening.
Although the basis for liposuction is removal of fat deposits, male liposuction is not a substitute for weight loss. If you are planning on losing a large amount of weight, you should talk to your doctor about the best time to have the procedure. Usually, this is when you are close to your weight loss goals, or you have already achieved them. Dr. Hardaway will help you find the ideal time and procedure plan that works best for you.
Although the basis for liposuction is removal of fat deposits, liposuction is not a substitute for weight loss. If you are planning on losing a large amount of weight, you should talk to your doctor about the best time to have the procedure. Usually, this is when you are close to your weight loss goals, or you have already achieved them. Dr. Hardaway will help you find the ideal time and procedure plan that works best for you.
Is there a male alternative?
Non-invasive body contouring is a non-surgical procedure that can be used to sculpt parts of the body. Coolsculpting and Sculpsure are examples of non-invasive body contouring. These procedures are not a substitute for liposuction, but can be effective in decreasing fat in specific areas. These results are less effective than liposuction. Male liposuction offers more dramatic and longer-lasting results than non-invasive body contouring procedures. However, non-invasive body contouring can be a good option for those who are hesitant about surgery, or want a less invasive procedure.
How much does liposuction cost?
The cost of liposuction varies from patient to patient. Prices vary depending on the intensity of the procedure, as well as the number of areas liposuctioned. Liposuction is not normally covered by insurance. Dr. Hardaway will discuss pricing at your consultation.
How is male liposuction performed?
Liposuction is an outpatient procedure, meaning the patient will be able to go home after surgery. The patient is under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with IV sedation (twilight anesthesia) for the procedure. Small incisions are made near the areas of treatment and a very thin tube called a cannula is inserted under the skin to reach fat deposits. The cannula is attached to a vacuum, and the doctor will move the tube under the skin, to suction out fatty deposits. Liposuction is an outpatient procedure, so hospitalization is not required. Patients should plan on having someone to drive them home from the procedure.
What are the risks ?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with liposuction. The most common risks include bruising and swelling after the procedure. As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection if not taken care of properly. Blood clots and nerve damage are other risks from the procedure, but are uncommon. Strictly following the doctor’s instructions for aftercare can help decrease the chance of these risks.
How long do the results last?
Results from male liposuction lasts for many years, as the fat is removed from the body. However, natural processes such as weight gain, aging, and other lifestyle factors, including genetics, can cause variations. It is important to maintain a stable weight and to exercise after surgery to ensure the longevity of the results. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen will help the results last longer. If you are in the process of losing weight, it is best to be near or at your weight loss goal before having the procedure done. Following the doctor’s specific instructions after surgery will help the results from your procedure last as long as possible. This will ensure the best and longest lasting results from the procedure.
Who is a good candidate?
Someone is an ideal candidate for male liposuction if:
- They are looking for a procedure that will remove excess fat, as well help shape the contours of the body.
- They are generally in good health.
- They do not smoke or drink excessively.
- They do not have any medical conditions that can impair or slow the healing process.
- They have realistic goals for the outcome of the surgery. Dr. Hardaway will work with patients to determine which path will be best to meet their needs.