Liposuction in Charlotte, NC

With the rising popularity of liposuction, devices have emerged to assist the surgeon with fat removal. Techniques such as laser and ultrasound are among such devices. Contrary to popular belief, these devices are used in addition to traditional liposuction and not in lieu of. These devices have at times made the process of physically removing the fat slightly easier for the surgeon; however, in Dr. Pratt’s experience, consistency in results are independent of the device and always related to surgical technique.

The ideal candidate for liposuction has a youthful, elastic quality to their skin. Because youthful skin has a natural tendency to “bounce back”, it will indeed conform to your new contour. Looser skin, especially skin with stretch marks is not as resilient, and may require a skin removal procedure done in combination with liposuction to optimize your results.

Absolutely not. Liposuction can be done effectively with and without a general anesthetic. Our ability to be able to offer both mild sedation or general anesthesia allows Dr. Pratt to tailor your surgery specifically to your needs.

Yes. Fat grafting is one of Dr. Pratt’s specialties, as he routinely incorporates fat grafting as a way to add volume and shape to areas of the body such as the face, breasts, and buttocks. This is routinely done using a mild sedative, or can be incorporated in a more comprehensive surgery like a mommy makeover.

Liposuction can be combined with various procedures to enhance and complement the results. Commonly paired treatments include tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) to address excess skin and tighten the abdominal muscles, as well as cosmetic breast surgeries such as breast augmentation or breast reduction. Additionally, liposuction can be performed in conjunction with body lift procedures to address multiple areas of concern and achieve comprehensive body contouring results.

Like all surgeries, liposuction comes with its own set of risks and potential complications. These may include infection, bleeding, changes in sensation, fluid accumulation, and irregular contours. However, choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Pratt, who prioritizes patient safety and follows stringent surgical protocols, can significantly minimize these risks.

Before your liposuction procedure, Dr. Pratt will offer personalized guidelines to help you prepare effectively. This may include adjusting medications, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It's essential to follow all pre-operative instructions provided by Dr. Pratt to ensure a smooth and successful surgery. Moreover, it's crucial to ensure that a dependable adult accompanies you to drive you home post-procedure and to have someone on hand to aid you during the early phases of your recuperation.

While some initial improvements may be visible shortly after the procedure, the full liposuction results will become more apparent as swelling subsides and the body heals. Most patients notice significant improvements within a few weeks to a few months after their procedure, with final results becoming increasingly visible as the body adjusts to its new contours.

The duration of a liposuction procedure can vary depending on the extent of the treatment area and the specific technique used. On average, a liposuction procedure can take anywhere from one to several hours, with Dr. Pratt's focused approach and expertise ensuring that the process is efficient and tailored to your individual needs.

The choice of anesthesia for your liposuction procedure will be tailored to both the size of the treatment area and your personal preferences. Dr. Pratt will discuss the options with you during your consultation and recommend the most suitable anesthesia approach to ensure your comfort and safety during the procedure.