Liposuction in Chicago, IL

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Liposuction, also known as “liposculpture,” “lipoplasty,” and “suction lipectomy,” is a procedure that shapes the body by removing diet-and-exercise-resistant fat from various parts of the body. Everybody’s needs may be different, but our level of expertise can provide solutions for a wide range of aesthetic needs. With a detailed understanding of the human body and employing the most effective liposuction techniques, our patients experience the best liposuction Chicago has to offer. Understandably, you’ll have a few questions about what the procedure entails, and Dr. Casas will discuss your areas of concern with you, and together you will determine whether liposuction is appropriate to achieve your desired result.

What Is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to remove excess fat from specific areas of the body, enhancing body shape and contour. While it is not a weight-loss solution, it effectively targets localized fat deposits, helping individuals achieve their desired silhouette.

During a liposuction procedure, the surgeon makes small incisions in the target areas, ensuring minimal scarring and damage to surrounding tissues. A thin tube, known as a cannula, is inserted through these incisions. This cannula is connected to a vacuum suction device that carefully extracts fat cells from beneath the skin. The use of local anesthesia or sedation is common to ensure patient comfort throughout the surgery.

The benefits of liposuction extend beyond mere fat reduction, it can provide a significant improvement in body shape and contour, leading to enhanced self-esteem and body image. Liposuction is best used to target fat in stubborn areas that resist diet and exercise. However, it is crucial to understand that liposuction is not intended for weight loss and is ineffective for individuals diagnosed with obesity or those carrying significant excess weight. Results can vary from person to person based on factors such as skin elasticity, fat distribution, and individual health conditions. As with any surgical procedure, potential risks and complications exist, including infection, bleeding, uneven contours, and skin damage.

Why Choose Dr. Casas for Liposuction in Chicago?

Dr. Laurie A. Casas, FACS, is a highly regarded and compassionate board-certified plastic surgeon who has dedicated her career to enhancing the lives and confidence of her patients. Currently serving as a Clinical Professor of Surgery at The University of Chicago Medicine, Dr. Casas has been practicing cosmetic surgery since 1990, developing a profound understanding of her patients’ unique desires and needs. Her advanced training, acquired through fellowships at the esteemed Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital and with renowned surgeon Dr. Carl Hartrampf in Atlanta, has equipped her with exceptional skills to provide the highest standard of care.

Dr. Casas is deeply committed to empowering her patients to achieve their vision of beauty. She invests time to consider their individual features, lifestyles, and aspirations when creating personalized treatment plans. Her empathetic approach has earned her a stellar reputation as one of the best liposuction surgeons in Chicago. Notably, Castle Connolly has recognized her as one of the Top Plastic Surgeons in the United States, included her in the list of America’s Most Honored Professionals, and honored her as one of the Exceptional Women in Medicine.

Common Areas Treated with Liposuction

Liposuction can be performed on various body regions, including but not limited to:

• Abdomen and Waist: Targeting the upper and lower abdomen, this procedure effectively reduces fat In the waistline, addressing common issues like “love handles” or “spare tires.”
• Hips and Thighs: Liposuction sculpts the hips and thighs, targeting unwanted fat in the inner and outer thighs to minimize the appearance of “saddlebags.”
• Upper Arms: For those struggling with excess fat in the upper arms, often referred to as “bat wings,” liposuction can create a more toned and defined look.
• Chin and Neck: Liposuction can effectively reduce fat deposits beneath the chin and along the neck, enhancing the jawline’s definition and countering the look of a double chin.
• Chest (Gynecomastia): Liposuction can be a solution for men with gynecomastia, addressing excess fat and tissue to create a flatter, more masculine contour to the chest.
• Back: Fat rolls on the upper and lower back can be reduced through liposuction to improve overall body aesthetics.
• Calves and Ankles: This procedure can also be applied to the calves and ankles, resulting in improved lower leg appearance and proportions.
• Buttocks: By addressing unwanted fat in the buttocks, liposuction can enhance the shape and contour of this area.

Types of Liposuction Techniques

Several techniques are utilized by liposuction doctors in Chicago, each with its own approaches to fat removal and potential benefits.

Tumescent Liposuction

Tumescent liposuction, also known as traditional liposuction, employs a specialized solution to facilitate the easy removal of fat tissue. This tumescent solution is composed of lidocaine, which helps alleviate discomfort; epinephrine, which reduces bleeding and bruising; and saline, which saturates the fat tissue. The surgeon utilizes a thin tube called a cannula to break down the fat tissue and suction it away. This method is associated with reduced bleeding and bruising and can be enhanced with additional techniques.  

Laser-Assisted Liposuction  

Smartlipo or laser-assisted liposuction utilizes laser energy to disrupt and liquefy fat tissue. The cannula used in this technique is equipped with a laser tip that heats and breaks down fat cells, while also minimizing the risk of bleeding or bruising. The heat generated during this process also promotes collagen production in the skin, providing a subtle tightening effect. Smartlipo is known for its precision, reduced bleeding, and slight skin tightening.  

Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction 

Ultrasound-assisted liposuction utilizes ultrasound energy to break apart fat tissue. This energy is specifically targeted at fat tissue, resulting in minimal disruption to surrounding blood vessels and other tissues. This technique minimizes damage to adjacent tissues while yielding dramatic results.

Power-Assisted Liposuction 

Utilizing a motorized tool, this technique assists in the motion of the cannula, potentially speeding up the fat-removal process and reducing the physical strain on the surgeon.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Liposuction?

In general, suitable candidates for liposuction should be within 30% of their ideal weight, in good overall health, non-smoking, and have realistic expectations. The procedure is often chosen by both women and men who have recently lost weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle but struggle with stubborn fat pockets. While liposuction is commonly sought for abdominal fat removal, it can also effectively address excess fat in areas such as the back, bra rolls, love handles, thighs, upper arms, and neck.

During the consultation, Dr. Casas will review your medical record and may recommend a physical examination by your primary physician prior to performing the cosmetic surgery. Common health concerns, such as asthma, diabetes, and high blood pressure, are often red flags for plastic surgeons.

Apart from fat removal, achieving a tight and smooth appearance in areas like the abdomen, thighs, or arms depends significantly on skin elasticity. It is essential that the skin has the ability to retract and adapt to the new, reduced surface area following liposuction.

Is Liposuction Right for Me?

Dr. Casas will emphasize the importance of diet and exercise before and following surgery since any type of liposuction for men and women alike is not a substitute for proper nutrition and physical activity. She will only recommend liposuction if you understand that proper nutrition and weight management after surgery are critical if you want to maintain the result.

Other factors that should be taken into consideration are medical history, in addition to any medications you may be taking. Each person’s journey with their weight can be drastically different, which means a successful liposuction procedure may require a unique approach. It’s vital to understand that liposuction isn’t a permanent solution, and your body has the ability to put more weight on down the road.

To avoid unnecessary additional liposuction procedures, it’s essential patients focus on maintaining their new weight after the operation. If you need help in this area, Dr. Casas has all of the information you need to maintain a dedicated diet and exercise regimen moving forward.

Your Liposuction Consultation

During your initial consultation with Dr. Casas, she will explore with you all avenues of body contouring to find the most appropriate procedure. Abdominoplasty, or a “tummy tuck,” may more effectively meet your goals. Click for abdominoplasty photos. Dr. Casas will also discuss with you what type of anesthetic will be most appropriate for your procedure.

It’s understandable to be on edge about the ins and outs of a liposuction procedure, but we won’t leave you wondering about any aspect of your procedure. A consultation with Dr. Casa will answer all of your questions and many you may not have considered. From a step-by-step description of the operation to the expected costs and weight management after the fact, you’ll be fully prepared to walk into your procedure with the utmost confidence in yourself and our team.

Recovering from Liposuction

The length of your recovery following your liposuction in Chicago greatly depends on the extent of your surgery. The day after surgery, you will need to move around a bit to promote blood circulation. Your compression garments and bandages will be removed within a few days so that Dr. Casas can examine the treated areas. Incisions are usually less than one-quarter inch and are hidden within skin folds or natural body contour lines.

You will notice swelling and bruising, which is to be expected. Dr. Casas will ask you to wear special compression garments that you will typically wear for several weeks after liposuction. Often you may be able to return to work in just a few days. In many instances, you can resume most of your normal activities within one or two weeks. Dr. Casas will work with you to decrease the pain associated with liposuction and will customize a plan that will allow you to resume normal activities within a few days to a week. Post-operative instructions will also be provided following your liposuction in Chicago.

Recovering with Manual Lymphatic Draining

Manual Lymphatic Drainage, administered by massage, is used after each procedure to reduce swelling. The number of sessions is individualized. It is important that patients follow a healthy lifestyle leading up to and following procedures, including non-smoking, a healthy diet, and daily vitamins.

Faster Liposuction Recovery with Alastin Skincare

Dr. Casas and her team use Alastin Products with Tripeptides and Hexapeptides to improve and hasten your recovery following procedures. Her research shows that by using topical treatment following procedures, there is less postprocedural swelling, pain, and discomfort. There is also an overall improved skin quality visually and to the touch.   Here at Casas Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, we strive to optimize patient experience and satisfaction following procedures.

We understand many people seek out liposuction for aesthetic reasons, but we show an equal amount of care toward patient health as a whole. Aesthetics may be important, but the longevity of your health is much more critical. We’ll ensure your body is in proper shape to thrive in conjunction with the stellar nutrition and exercise plans we provide to each patient. You can find more research on Alastin Skincare below.

Topical Treatment with Tripeptide and Hexapeptide Following Body-Contouring Procedures Improved Patient-Reported Recovery Outcomes

View Alastin Skincare

The Cost of Liposuction in Chicago

Liposuction can be performed on various areas of the body, so the cost of your liposuction in Chicago will be based on the areas of the body being treated and other factors. Our team can let you know the expected cost of your liposuction and go over the payment options we accept during your consultation.

The liposuction cost each patient encounters can vary greatly, but it’s common for many liposuction procedures to cost anywhere between $3,000 to $4,000. Of course, you can get a much more refined cost with your initial consultation, so you know what you’ll encounter before making a commitment. Nevertheless, the procedure is more affordable than ever, and Dr. Casas and her team’s level of care and expertise are worth every penny.

No matter what the industry standard for liposuction may be, you should always remember that the costs you encounter will be specific to the needs of your operation. However, Dr. Casas always works with each patient to address their budgetary concerns to help them get the procedure they’re looking for.

Liposuction vs. Other Fat Reduction Treatments

When choosing between traditional liposuction and non-invasive fat reduction methods such as CoolSculpting®, several factors must be taken into account, including your aesthetic goals, the urgency of your timeline, and your comfort with undergoing surgical procedures.

Traditional liposuction is ideal for immediate and significant fat removal. If you desire quick, noticeable results and have larger areas of fat to address, liposuction is often the most effective choice. Those who are comfortable with the surgical process and understand the importance of post-operative recovery may find that liposuction yields more dramatic, longer-lasting results compared to non-invasive options. Liposuction in Chicago offers the ability to contour the body with a high degree of customization. This makes it an excellent option for individuals seeking meticulous sculpting to achieve their desired silhouette.

Non-invasive fat reduction is ideal for patients wishing to avoid surgery, anesthesia, and extended downtime. Non-invasive treatments like CoolSculpting® provide a convenient and alternative solution. Non-invasive techniques are best suited for individuals dealing with small, localized areas of fat and seeking gradual, natural-looking improvements. With minimal side effects and no downtime required, non-invasive treatments are perfect for individuals with busy schedules who need to return to their daily routines quickly.

Schedule a Liposuction Consultation in Chicago

Contact Casas Aesthetic Plastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation for your liposuction in Chicago. Dr. Laurie Casas is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience. Dr. Casas strives to offer the best liposuction results Chicago has to offer. Whether you’re looking for arm liposuction, neck liposuction, or any other particular area of the body, we’re more than ready to address your concerns with an outcome you’ll love.

To start with a detailed consultation, don’t hesitate to call us at 847-657-6884, and we’ll have that set up for you in no time. From there, we can discuss the next steps you need to take to prepare for your future operation.

Click here to learn more.

Learn more about Coolsculpting here.

Learn more about Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) here.

Liposuction in Chicago FAQs

• Am I A Good Candidate For Liposuction?

  Liposuction can be tricky, and it’s important to understand the pros and cons, depending on your specific body type. Those with localized fat collections, healthy elastic skin, and an average weight are considered good candidates for a liposuction procedure.
  On the other hand, individuals with sagging, inelastic, or very loose skin may encounter results that don’t hit the mark they’re looking for. You won’t have to deal with losing out on time or money on a procedure, as Dr. Casas will be able to help discern if you’re a good candidate in your initial consultation.

• What Can Be Expected After The Treatment?

  Considering the toll that liposuction can have on the body, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and a little pain after the procedure. It’s also normal to utilize elastic bandages and other fitting garments to help support your body post-procedure.
  It’ll take a bit for the body to fully heal, and protective garments may need to be worn for around 30 days before they can be removed. Any swelling and bruising can last up to ten days, and you should feel comfortable enough to return to normal activities around one week after your operation.

• Is Liposuction A Good Substitute For Exercise?

  Although the procedure can seem like a fast way to lose some weight, it shouldn’t be used as an alternative to exercising and a healthy diet. Most people who pursue liposuction procedures are dealing with other health complications that have made their weight difficult to maintain.
  Fat deposits can act differently from person to person, and it’s easier to manage for some than others. Regardless of the candidate’s health conditions, each patient must follow a dedicated diet and exercise routine, or the weight they were struggling with can easily return in a short amount of time.

• How Effective Is The Procedure?

  Those who go through a liposuction procedure are bound to see some improvement in their figure, and this often improves with time as the body continues to heal. It’s important to note that the full effects of the procedure may not show themselves until six months to a year later.
  A common misconception is that liposuction also tights the skin when the fat is removed, and this is simply not the case. Patients should expect loose skin in the areas where fat is removed, but as the body naturally heals, the skin may tighten up a bit after a few months. Older individuals may experience more of a struggle with loose skin, whereas younger patients still have a substantial amount of elasticity in their skin.

• What Are The Known Risks?

  You should always consider the potential risks when diving into a procedure such as liposuction. Some known risks include a fat embolism, bleeding, infection, seroma, and a variety of changes in the skin.
  Patients may encounter a bumpy appearance in the skin and a loss of elasticity. These risks aren’t guaranteed and vary from person to person if they occur, but Dr. Casas ensures that each patient is aware well before they walk in for their operation.