Liposuction 

Also called body sculpting, this is perhaps the most popular cosmetic surgery procedure today, and no wonder! In properly qualified hands, like those of Dr. Weinberg, this is a very safe and easy way to improve body shape by removing exercise-resistant fat deposits. Don’t be fooled by fads in new machinery! As the term body sculpting implies, liposuction is like sculpture, the results ultimately depending on the artistic eye and gifted dexterity of the surgeon to achieve an attractive body silhouette. Dr. Weinberg is widely recognized for producing excellent results, and was invited to demonstrate his talent in Liposuction combined with Tummy Tuck on the popular Television series Skin Deep.

Liposuction is an ideal procedure for localized bulges of fat. It is achieved with the use of a canula (a tube), which is placed into a bulging area through a small incision. The fat is then suctioned off.  Performed using the tumescent technique, in which the areas to be liposuctioned are infused with a saline (salt water) solution, containing a local anesthetic, post-operative bruising and swelling are markedly reduced. This technique also allows patients the option of having the procedure awake, allowing for even greater safety, and minimal downtime, such that patients can often return to work the next day.

Because liposuction can involve significant changes in the body’s salt and fluid balance, there are strict parameters as to how much fat can safely be removed from the body at a given time. For that reason patients should only undergo this procedure by a certified Plastic Surgeon with the requisite training and experience specifically in liposuction. Dr. Weinberg has tremendous experience performing  liposuction in a wide range of areas, including chin, neck, upper arms, abdomen, hips, thighs and knees, and buttocks. Because the procedure involves sophisticated equipment, that requires appropriate maintenance, it is adviseable that patients only have this treatment in a certified CAAASF facility, manned by qualified anesthetists, such as Mississauga Cosmetic Surgery Clinic, or in a hospital. 

Liposuction usually takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on how many areas are being done. Smaller areas are ideal for local anesthetic while the patient is awake. When larger or more numerous areas are done, it may be necessary to use general anesthetic.

Most Liposuction patients opt to have their procedure in our clinic, enjoying the personal attention of our registered nurses and the pleasant environment of our private facility. Because Dr. Weinberg is Chief of Plastic Surgery at Trillium Health Centre, arrangements can easily be made for those patients having large volumes removed, or for those with significant health issues, to have their procedure in the hospital.

For an overview of what to expect throughout the surgical process from consultation to post operative period, including general risks and side effects, see the general section on Surgical Procedures. Some other specific risks include rippling or bagginess of skin, and pigmentation changes. There may be injury to the skin, fluid retention and rarely excessive fluid loss leading to shock. Organ damage is possible but rare.

Depending on the amount of fat removed and the number of locations treated, patients may return to work anywhere from the next day to 1 or 2 weeks after treatment. (With the tumescent technique, there is always temporary fluid drainage after the procedure from the incision sites). Those having liposuction of abdomen, hips, buttocks or thighs are asked to wear a support garment such as Spanks, post operatively for a day or two. Patients can usually return to exercise and other strenuous activity within 2 to 4 weeks. Full recovery from bruising and swelling can take anywhere from 1 to 6 months. The results are usually permanent with sensible diet and exercise.