Liposuction is one of the most popular body contouring procedures available today, offering the ability to refine body shape by removing stubborn fat deposits. If you're considering reshaping your body with liposuction, it's important to know that this surgery is generally safe for the right candidates and when performed by qualified surgeons. Understanding the facts about safety, candidacy, types of procedures, and recovery will help you make an informed decision.
Liposuction is not intended to replace traditional weight loss methods but rather to enhance body contours once a person is already within a healthy weight range. While individual results vary, most surgeons recommend removing no more than 5 liters (about 11 pounds) of fat in a single session to minimize risks and support a safe recovery. People who undergo liposuction should do so with the understanding that it is not about dropping large numbers on the scale, but about fine-tuning areas that haven’t responded to consistent weight loss methods.
While both procedures can enhance abdominal contours, a tummy tuck also removes excess skin and may tighten abdominal muscles. Liposuction, in contrast, only addresses unwanted fat. Many patients combine these two procedures to remove excess fat and address poor skin quality.
The field of liposuction has evolved, offering several options to suit different needs, goals, and body types.
High-Definition Liposuction
High-definition liposuction uses advanced techniques and technology to sculpt more athletic and contoured results, highlighting natural muscle definition.
Lipo 360 refers to a comprehensive approach, treating the entire midsection—front, sides, and back—for a more balanced and dramatic transformation.
Consultation and Evaluation
A thorough consultation with your surgeon will include a discussion of your goals, a physical examination, and a review of your medical history. This step helps determine if liposuction is safe and appropriate for you.
How to Prepare for Body Contouring
At Illuum Cosmetic Surgery, liposuction is performed exclusively by Dr. Ellen Ozolins, MD and Dr. Gregory Lakin, MD, both with extensive training and experience in body contouring procedures.
Discomfort is normal during the early recovery phase, but pain is typically well-controlled with medication and supportive care. Most patients describe soreness similar to an intense workout.
In some cases, liposuction can be safely combined with other cosmetic surgeries, such as a breast lift or Brazilian butt lift, depending on your health and goals. Your surgeon will advise on the safest approach.
Liposuction is not designed to treat cellulite or sagging skin. In some cases, it may even make cellulite more noticeable if significant skin laxity exists.
Both women and men seek liposuction to address areas such as the abdomen, flanks, chest, and more. Procedures like pec liposuction are tailored for male anatomy. Liposuction can also help address pseudogynecomastia (enlarged male breast tissue caused by excess fat). The safety of this procedure depends on proper patient selection and surgical expertise.
With Dr. Ellen Ozolins, MD, and Dr. Gregory Lakin, MD, at the helm, Illuum Cosmetic Surgery offers advanced skills in liposuction and other body contouring procedures. Our patient-centered approach ensures that each individual receives a customized treatment plan, attentive care, and support throughout every phase of the journey, be it a cosmetic or reconstructive surgery. For more on our philosophy and credentials, visit the about page.
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Nurse Injector
She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Michigan State University and worked as an operating room nurse at Michigan Medicine for 2 years before transitioning to aesthetics. She
received her certification as a Nurse Injector, and attended further training and certification through Allergan Medical Institute. She absolutely loves being a Nurse Injector and is very passionate about
combining medicine and the creativity and artistry of aesthetics in her practice. It is extremely important to her to remain educated and up to date with the newest and best treatments and injection techniques. Her goal as an Injector is that when you sit in her chair that you feel comfortable, fully educated on your procedure, and confident and happy in your results when we are done. She loves forming connections with her patients and feels truly honored to be a part of your journey to becoming your most confident self, inside and out! She is a great listener and looks forward to creating an individualized plan to meet each of her patient’s unique goals and desires. Some of her favorite treatments include lip filler, Botox, and midface/cheek filler (but there is so much more!). When she is not injecting, you can find her trying new recipes, spending time with family, working out, gardening, or taking a long walk with her dog.
Heidi Winkler BSN, RN
Director of Nursing & Surgical Services Leadership
Heidi’s goal is to ensure every patient has a positive experience and is satisfied with the high quality of service provided by our clinical staff. Her passion as a caregiver is to impact each person’s life in a positive way.
PACU Nurse
Tonya has been a registered nurse for 15 years. She earned her BSN at the University of Michigan. Go Blue!
She started her career as a trauma RN in Detroit. She has been working as a recovery RN for the past 8 years. She loves being part of a team that makes a difference in people’s lives.
Her passions include lounging with her fur babies, family, and friends, traveling, crunching, and recycling.
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