Liposuction is one of the leading cosmetic procedures performed by plastic surgeons. This minimally-invasive body contouring technique has been performed millions of times over the years and has sculpted arms, abdomens, hips, thighs, and more. Over time, we’ve seen several new developments in the area of liposuction, such as the use of innovative technologies to aid in fat reduction. What we do not yet have is a way to prevent loose skin from occurring after liposuction using any particular technique. Here, we discuss why loose skin may be noticed after liposuction and what can be done about it.
Loose skin may look more prominent after liposuction. Does that mean that liposuction is the cause? No. At least not directly. The reason why skin may look looser after liposuction is because, when fat is removed, there is less volume beneath the skin to make it look plump and relatively smooth. Laxity develops when the skin ages or is significantly stretched. Aging affects the skin everywhere on the body. This happens because certain cells stop producing chemicals like collagen, hyaluronic acid, and elastin, which are vital to firm, smooth, elastic skin. Laxity means that the skin cannot bounce back after being stretched. It means that, when the volume of fat is decreased through liposuction, the skin has nothing to push it outward.
It is possible to undergo body contouring treatment that meets all of your needs. An experienced plastic surgeon may have numerous tools to help you achieve the results you want after liposuction. First, it is necessary to observe the skin during the initial consultation for liposuction. Knowing that the skin may look loose and puckered if it is too loose, a plastic surgeon will recommend additional techniques to address this issue. Laxity is not a “wait and see” issue for many people. We know when it may occur and we know what to do about it.
In our practice, solutions to loose skin after liposuction include surgical lift techniques and nonsurgical skin tightening. Which option is best depends on the extent of laxity identified during the consultation. If you have mildly loose skin, treatment like Triniti RF microneedling may be sufficient to promote natural tightening over time. If your tissue laxity is more severe, a surgical lift such as a tummy tuck, thigh lift, or arm lift may be better suited to your needs. There is also the matter of how long results will last to consider.
We can help you get the results you want from liposuction and body contouring. Contact our Hazleton or Pottsville office to schedule your consultation.