Sport a New Summer Look

Body Contouring with Liposuction and Breast Implants 06/15/03

Spring is the most popular time of year for many patients to consider body contouring. Diet and exercise can go a long way toward getting in shape. However, no amount of time in the gym can completely eliminate those unsightly bulges that result from hormones and genetics rather than too much wintertime feasting! And for women who want to look better in their clothing, especially swimsuits, breast augmentation can help improve overall body proportion.

Liposuction

Contrary to popular belief, current data on liposuction safety has shown that serious complications are extremely rare when a properly trained surgical specialist who adheres to accepted standards of clinical practice performs the procedure. The following guidelines can help you make a decision:

Be realistic about expectations. Liposuction is not a cure for obesity. It is best suited for the removal of localized fat deposits for individuals who are within 30 percent of their ideal body weight and have good skin tone.

Select a qualified plastic surgeon. Many state laws permit any licensed physician to be called a "plastic" or "cosmetic" surgeon-even if the doctor has had no surgical training. For this reason, it is important that you chose a plastic surgeon that is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Make sure the surgeon has hospital privileges to perform liposuction in an accredited acute care hospital like HealthSouth.

Discuss the procedure thoroughly with your surgeon. Make sure he has your accurate medical history. You will also want to know which technique he will be using (superwet, tumescent or ultrasonic). Some patients and surgeons prefer local anesthesia for more limited body contouring, however, many patients choose to remain asleep throughout the procedure. A board-certified anesthesiologist or certified registered nurse anesthetist should administer general anesthesia.

Breast Augmentation

Today, advancements in breast augmentation have made it a safe choice for women who want to enhance their appearance. The Institute of Medicine has concluded that there is "no definitive evidence linking breast implants to cancer, immunological diseases, neurological problems, or other systemic diseases" (6-2-99). Interestingly, two major studies have also shown that women with breast implants have a lower-than-expected rate of breast cancer.

Breast augmentation using saline-filled breast implants has been associated with a very high rate of patient satisfaction. With this new option, the number of breast augmentations has risen each year since 1997. The procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis and involves a small incision, which can be made underneath the breast, around the areola or in the underarm area. All options can give excellent results.

The combination of liposuction and breast augmentation can result in a spectacular new look for the summer-and a lifetime.

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