Results from Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Study
A recent study published in the April issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery indicates that patients undergoing liposuction or abdominoplasty experience “significant improvements in self-esteem and quality of life.” These benefits were greatly enhanced when the procedures were combined.
Abdominoplasty, more widely known as the tummy tuck, is a popular surgery that removes excess skin from the lower abdomen. Liposuction removes excess fatty deposits through the use of a suction device. These surgeries enhance the appearance of the body by tightening curves and smoothing body contours.
This new study, the first of its kind, examined quality-of-life and other outcomes in 360 patients who were undergoing plastic surgery. Roughly 60 percent of patients received liposuction, 5 percent received abdominoplasty, and 35 percent received both techniques in a single procedure. As well, 30 percent of the patients underwent another plastic surgery, such as facelift or breast augmentation.
As one might expect, the patients who only underwent liposuction had shorter recovery times: 6 days off work compared with 16 for those undergoing tummy tuck surgery. The liposuction patients also experienced less discomfort in the aftermath of the procedure.
However, despite these higher recovery times and pain scores among the abdominoplasty group, the study found that patients undergoing abdominoplasty rated their outcomes higher than others. On average, liposuction garnered a score of 80 percent and abdominoplasty 90 percent. When the procedures were combined, they resulted in a whopping satisfaction rate – over 99 percent – with no increase in pain compared to abdominoplasty alone.
Enhanced Quality of Life with Plastic Surgery
- 86 percent of patients reported an improved sense of self-esteem
- 70 percent reported an improved quality of life (which was more common among the combined-procedure group)
Dr. Eric Swanson, who wrote the study on , hopes that his work will contribute to the growing understanding of post-operative quality-of-life for plastic surgery patients.
Liposuction & Fat Removal
Excess fat deposits can linger despite a healthy lifestyle and exercise. Fat can localize in stubborn areas like the abdomen, thighs, hips, calves and arms. Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that can target many different parts of the body for fat removal. It is important to note that liposuction is not a replacement for dieting or exercise.
There are many different types of liposuction, because the procedure can treat many parts of the body. There are also a variety of liposuction techniques that are regularly used. The technique that is right for you will be determined during a consultation between you and a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Andre Aboolian.
If you would like to schedule a consultation with us at our office in Beverly Hills, feel free to contact us.
