Liposuction is a fantastic way to remove stubborn excess fat. However, you may be wondering if your skin will tighten up to match your slim new shape. It really depends on a few different factors. Learn what to expect based on your liposuction procedure, skin quality, and more.
What Type of Lipo Tightens Skin?
Traditional liposuction removes excess fat but does not offer any skin tightening benefits. The same cannot be said of newer and more advanced techniques. VASER® Liposuction, for example, is a next-generation liposuction procedure that incorporates ultrasound energy. It has been shown to provide patients with enhanced skin retraction. Translation: better skin tightening.
You can easily find before and after images of patients who had traditional liposuction and did not experience sagging skin. That is because our skin is capable of some amazing things! It will naturally contract during the healing process if it has enough elasticity to spring back into place. But procedures like VASER® Liposuction help improve this response by stimulating collagen.
Liposuction and Skin Quality
Liposuction does not cause loose skin. But the procedure can make it more visible by removing the supporting fat. This result is more common after massive weight loss or pregnancy.
Keep in mind that even the most advanced type of liposuction can not treat significant drooping. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Dean Kleto will evaluate your skin quality during a consultation. He can determine if a procedure like traditional or VASER® Liposuction will create the results that you desire. In some cases, he may even recommend an alternative surgery.
A pinch test is a rudimentary way to check your skin elasticity at home. If your skin bounces back after you pinch it between your thumb and forefinger, you likely have good elasticity.
Maximizing Your Liposuction Results
Your chosen liposuction procedure and your skin quality will have a big impact on your results. However, there are some things you can do to help your skin tighten up as much as possible.
Be sure to follow all of your pre-operative and post-operative instructions. These steps may include wearing a compression garment to help the skin evenly adhere to the underlying tissue.
Book a Liposuction Consultation in Knoxville
Call 865-524-2442 today to schedule a consultation at our Knoxville plastic surgery practice. We happily welcome patients from Sevierville, Knox County, and nearby areas of Tennessee.
