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Liposuction by Karen M. Horton, MD, MSc, FACS

Minimally InvasiveHigh Patient SatisfactionQuick Recovery
  • Introduction
  • Candidates
  • Benefits
  • Risks
  • How to prepare
  • Recovery Tips
  • Surgeon
  • Q&A
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Uploaded in Sep 2024

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Liposuction

Minimally InvasiveHigh Patient SatisfactionQuick Recovery
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Karen M. Horton, MD, MSc, FACSlogo

logoBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

San Francisco County, California

Speaks: English, French

About the Procedure

Introduction

Introduction

Liposuction Procedure Overview Liposuction Procedure Overview

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat from the body. It is commonly used to improve the appearance of areas such as the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks.

How Liposuction Works

Liposuction is performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, the surgeon will make small incisions in the skin and insert a thin tube called a cannula. The cannula is then used to suction out the excess fat.

Benefits of Liposuction

Liposuction can provide a number of benefits, including:

  • Improved body contour
  • Reduced body fat
  • Improved self-confidence

Risks of Liposuction

As with any surgical procedure, liposuction carries some risks. These risks include:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Scarring
  • Damage to nerves or blood vessels

Who is a Good Candidate for Liposuction?

Liposuction is not for everyone. It is best suited for people who are:

  • Healthy and have a stable weight
  • Have realistic expectations about the results
  • Non-smokers

Recovery from Liposuction

Recovery from liposuction typically takes a few weeks. During this time, it is important to follow the surgeon's instructions and to take it easy.

Results of Liposuction

The results of liposuction can be permanent. However, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle after the procedure to prevent the fat from returning.

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Duration

4 Hours

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Overnight Stay

No

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Recovery Time

3 Days - 1 Week

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Effective Period

3 - 6 months

Things to know before start

Preoperative Preparation for Liposuction

1. Medical Evaluation:

  • Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals, health history, and expectations.
  • Undergo a thorough physical examination and blood tests to assess your overall health.
  • Rule out any underlying medical conditions that may interfere with surgery.

2. Smoking Cessation:

  • Quit smoking at least 6 weeks prior to surgery. Nicotine can impair blood flow and increase the risk of complications.

3. Medication Adjustments:

  • Inform your surgeon about any medications you are taking, including blood thinners, anti-inflammatories, and herbal supplements.
  • Certain medications may need to be discontinued or adjusted before surgery.

4. Dietary Considerations:

  • Follow a healthy, balanced diet in the weeks leading up to surgery.
  • Avoid excessive alcohol intake.
  • Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.

5. Exercise and Weight Management:

  • Maintain a stable weight and avoid significant weight gain or loss before surgery.
  • Engage in regular exercise to improve overall health and circulation.

6. Preoperative Instructions:

  • Follow your surgeon's specific instructions closely.
  • Avoid eating or drinking for 12 hours before surgery.
  • Arrange for transportation to and from the surgical facility.
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing.

7. Day of Surgery:

  • Arrive at the surgical facility on time and with someone to accompany you.
  • Remove all jewelry and clothing.
  • You will be given preoperative antibiotics to prevent infection.
  • The surgical site will be marked and cleaned.

8. Anesthesia:

  • Liposuction is typically performed under either general anesthesia or twilight sedation.
  • Your anesthesiologist will discuss the best option for you.

Surgeon

Karen M. Horton

Karen M. Horton, MD, MSc, FACSlogo

logoBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Owner at San Francisco Plastic Surgery

San Francisco County, California

50 views today

Speaks: English, French

Dr. Karen Horton is Internationally Board Certified in Plastic Surgery by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada, specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery for women. Since 2006, Dr. Horton’s boutique Pacific Heights San Francisco Plastic Surgery private practice focuses on providing personalized care with meticulous attention to detail in a warm, welcoming and unintimidating environment. Regardless of whether surgery is cosmetic or reconstructive, Dr. Horton’s practice is centered on providing BEAUTIFUL, NATURAL looking and long-lasting results. “Dr. Karen” is also a Plastic Surgery patient herself! Learn all about her own Mommy Makeover experience in her blog series.

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Education & Training
  • 1996 - 2000 University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine Doctor of Medicine, First Class Honours
  • 2000 - 2005 University of Manitoba - Canada Residency in Plastic and Reconstructive Surger
  • 2005 - 2006 Buncke Clinic, California Pacific Medical Center Senior Clinical Fellowship in Hand and Microsurgery
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Awards & Academic Achievements
  • ASPS Ambassador Appointment 2005-Present
  • America's Top Plastic Surgeon Award 2004-Present
  • America's Top Physicians Award 2005-Present
  • America's Top Surgeon Award 2008-Present
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Board Certification(s)
  • American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)
  • Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)

Surgeon

Karen M. Horton

Karen M. Horton, MD, MSc, FACSlogo

logoBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Owner at San Francisco Plastic Surgery

San Francisco County, California

50 views today

Dr. Karen Horton is Internationally Board Certified in Plastic Surgery by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada, specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery for women. Since 2006, Dr. Horton’s boutique Pacific Heights San Francisco Plastic Surgery private practice focuses on providing personalized care with meticulous attention to detail in a warm, welcoming and unintimidating environment. Regardless of whether surgery is cosmetic or reconstructive, Dr. Horton’s practice is centered on providing BEAUTIFUL, NATURAL looking and long-lasting results. “Dr. Karen” is also a Plastic Surgery patient herself! Learn all about her own Mommy Makeover experience in her blog series.

logo
Education & Training
  • 1996 - 2000 University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine Doctor of Medicine, First Class Honours
  • 2000 - 2005 University of Manitoba - Canada Residency in Plastic and Reconstructive Surger
  • 2005 - 2006 Buncke Clinic, California Pacific Medical Center Senior Clinical Fellowship in Hand and Microsurgery
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Awards & Academic Achievements
  • ASPS Ambassador Appointment 2005-Present
  • America's Top Plastic Surgeon Award 2004-Present
  • America's Top Physicians Award 2005-Present
  • America's Top Surgeon Award 2008-Present
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Board Certification(s)
  • American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)
  • Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)
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2100 Webster St unit 520, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA

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Questions and Answers

Q&A

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Dr. Karen M. Horton does not have any Q&A at this time.

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