Liposuction in New Orleans, LA

Liposuction in Metairie & New Orleans, LA

We offer different types of liposuction at our New Orleans, LA office, including tumescent, power-assisted, VASER®, and SlimLipo®. Our triple board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Stephen E. Metzinger, uses the latest technology to fragment and remove stubborn fat deposits, providing patients with a slimmer figure. Liposuction is a versatile procedure that can be used in many body areas, including the waist, thighs, inner knees, cheeks, chin, neck, ankles, chest, upper arms, and more. At Aesthetic Surgical Associates, we perform each operation with utmost care and dedication to help patients realize their vision of beauty.

What is
Liposuction

Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that removes fat cells from specific body areas. It involves inserting a small tube, called a cannula, through tiny incisions in the skin. The cannula is attached to a vacuum device that suctions out the fat. Liposuction aims to reshape certain body parts by removing excess fat deposits. In most cases, this is an outpatient procedure, so people can return home the same day after receiving treatment.

View Our Liposuction
Before & After

We perform several types of liposuction, and each of them provides unique benefits:

Tumescent liposuction

Dr. Metzinger injects a tumescent solution into fat deposits. It contains epinephrine to reduce bleeding and lidocaine as a local anesthetic. Next, he uses repetitive manual motions to break fat tissue and suction it out through a cannula. This procedure is more advanced than traditional liposuction, which does not include a tumescent solution.

Power-assisted liposuction (PAL)

PAL further enhances the tumescent technique. In addition to administering epinephrine and lidocaine, Dr. Metzinger uses a MicroAire PAL® device to break up fat more effectively and remove it gently without damaging the surrounding tissues.

Ultrasonic-assisted liposuction (UAL)

UAL operates in the same way as the tumescent type but relies on powerful sound waves to melt fats for extraction. We use VASER® equipment for this

Laser-assisted liposuction (LAL)

Our SlimLipo® system from Cynosure utilizes two precise, powerful diode lasers at different wavelengths to liquefy fat, allowing Dr. Metzinger to remove it quickly and easily. These laser treatments are highly effective and safe.

During an appointment, we discuss the four options in more detail with the patient. Dr. Metzinger can help each person choose which technique is the most appropriate for them.

Consultation &
Preparation for Cosmetic Surgery

Before scheduling liposuction, a consultation with our plastic surgeon is required to determine if the patient is a good candidate for the procedure. Dr. Metzinger evaluates areas of concern, skin elasticity, and patient’s expectations. He also reviews medical history to assess surgical risks.

If cleared for liposuction, the patient is given detailed pre-operative instructions, which may include:

Taking lab tests

Avoiding nicotine for at least 4 weeks before the surgery

Stopping blood-thinning medications

Arranging a ride home from the hospital or clinic

Not eating or drinking the night before the operation

These key preparation steps help to minimize risks and achieve the best results.

Liposuction
Procedure

Anesthesia

Liposuction is usually performed under general anesthesia to keep patients comfortable. However, if the treatment areas are small, local anesthesia with IV sedation may be used. Our specialist monitors vital signs and other indicators throughout the surgery.

Incisions

Small incisions, usually less than 0.3 inches each, are made in inconspicuous areas near the targeted fat deposits. Common sites include the buttocks, abdomen, thighs, knees, upper arms, chin, cheeks, and neck. The number and location of incisions depend on the extent of surgery.

Removal of Fat Cells

A tumescent solution containing sterile saltwater, local anesthetic, and epinephrine is infused into the target area to reduce bleeding and discomfort. Then, a thin hollow tube is inserted through the incisions to break up and suction out fat deposits from beneath the skin. The surgeon moves the cannula back and forth in a controlled motion to sculpt and contour the treatment zones. Dr. Metzinger may use PAL, UAL, or LAL techniques to make the process smoother and safer.

Closing Incisions

After achieving the desired fat removal, the incisions are closed with stitches or surgical tape. Compression garments or bandages may be applied to promote healing and reduce swelling.

Tummy Tuck

Many patients who undergo liposuction end up with loose, sagging skin in different body areas. Adding an abdominoplasty, or “tummy tuck,” procedure helps to address this issue. Dr. Metzinger makes an incision along the bikini line to access the abdominal muscles and remove excess skin and tissue. He tightens the muscles, stitching them closer together to create a flatter, more toned look. Finally, the remaining skin is stretched and stitched. The combined procedures allow Dr. Metzinger to address both fat deposits and skin laxity.

Brazilian Butt Lift

Dr. Metzinger often combines liposuction with a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) to provide patients with enhanced body contouring results. The excess harvested fat is strategically injected into the buttocks to improve their shape and size. By combining these procedures, Dr. Metzinger can address both fat removal and buttock augmentation, achieving a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing silhouette for his patients.

Liposuction can be beneficial for many people. However, certain criteria should be met to maximize the effectiveness of surgery. Patients are good candidates if they:

Have a flexible and firm skin. Elasticity is important because it determines how well the skin will adapt to new contours.

Do not have diseases or conditions that could interfere with their ability to heal properly.

Are in good general health. Ideal candidates do not have a history of adverse reactions or allergies to local anesthesia or any other substances used during liposuction.

Do not smoke. Nicotine can increase the risk of complications.

Are not currently taking medications that may slow down recovery.

Dr. Metzinger helps patients determine if they are good candidates for liposuction. During the initial consultation, we evaluate everything and make sure that this surgery is the best option for each individual.

Recovery
After Liposuction

The recovery time after liposuction varies depending on the extent of surgery. Most patients can return to non-strenuous work within a few days. Bruising, swelling, numbness, and mild pain are common during this period.

Wearing a compression garment helps to minimize swelling and encourages skin to fit new body contours. Patients should also have enough rest after liposuction to allow the body to heal. They are advised to avoid straining, bending, or lifting heavy objects for 2-6 weeks because this can aggravate swelling and slow down recovery. Gentle movement may help to reduce stiffness and prevent complications.

Most symptoms subside within a few weeks, but inflammation and residual swelling can persist for several months. To maximize results, patients should maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine during recovery and beyond. Following all post-operative instructions from Dr. Metzinger helps to ensure proper healing after the surgery.

Liposuction provides a wide range of advantages, including both physical and psychological improvements. This operation:

Removes Fat
Deposits

Liposuction surgery is an effective way to eliminate excess fat that is unresponsive to diet and exercise. It can help patients save a lot of time and avoid the stress that comes from futile attempts to lose weight via a healthy lifestyle.

Reshapes Specific
Areas

Surgical liposuction sculpts the treatment areas by strategically removing unwanted fat. This reshaping creates better body proportions and contours. Thus, patients can finally see the figure they were dreaming of.

Provides Skin
Tightening

Liposuction may stimulate skin tightening and contraction in the treated areas. Even if it does not happen naturally, Dr. Metzinger can achieve the same results with additional procedures, such as a tummy tuck.

Boosts
Confidence

Removing unwanted fat and reshaping the body may greatly boost patients’ confidence and self-esteem. After contouring problem areas, people feel better about their appearance.

Enables Better
Clothing Fit

Liposuction can slim the body, providing individuals with a better fit in their clothing. Previously bulging zones will look smoother and more proportional in garments.

Cost of Liposuction
in Metairie & New Orleans

Liposuction cost in Metairie and New Orleans ranges from $2,000 to $10,000. The price varies due to the following factors:

At Aesthetic Surgical Associates, we provide an accurate cost estimate during the initial consultation. Dr. Metzinger must evaluate each patient’s unique situation to determine the price. Our practice offers financing through CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit to break down expenses into smaller, easier payments.

The extent of treatment needed

The technique used

The type of anesthesia

Facility expenses

Aftercare

What Makes Our Plastic
Surgery Different From Others?

Patients seeking exceptional care need look no further than Aesthetic Surgical Associates. Led by the only plastic surgeon in Louisiana with triple board certification, our practice blends surgical artistry with human-centered treatment. Each patient can benefit from Dr. Metzinger’s expertise across various fields of medicine. He performs all procedures in a state-of-the-art facility that is designed for optimal safety and comfort. Unlike most plastic surgeons, Dr. Metzinger is fully dedicated to helping patients achieve their aesthetic goals and enjoy their lives to the fullest.

Liposuction in New Orleans, LA