Facial Liposuction

The concept of liposuction is surprisingly simple. Excess fat from fatty deposits located between the skin and muscle is removed to improve the body’s contours.

Liposuction involves the use of a cannula, a small tube connected to a powerful suction machine. When inserted through very small skin incisions, the suction cannula removes fat and creates tiny tunnels through the fatty layers. After the procedure, these collapse. A dramatic improvement in the appearance often results. 

Case #1 – Before
A before and after series showing a woman before jaw surgery, and after jaw surgery at Mission Valley Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery-San Diego.
Case #1 – After
A before and after series showing a woman before jaw surgery, and after jaw surgery at Mission Valley Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery-San Diego.

The MVOMS surgical team is expert at performing the tumescent liposuction technique in the facial and neck areas. Considered to be the safest form of liposuction, this technique replaces fluid removed during surgery with a saltwater solution mixed with local anesthetic (lidocaine) and adrenaline (to reduce bleeding). Usually performed using IV sedation, tumescent liposuction has has been associated with less pain and shortened postoperative recovery time.

Before the procedure

We will evaluate your medical history in order to determine your overall health. The doctor will discuss with you what you can expect from liposuction. Our objective is to create a natural appearance that is pleasing to you. 

We will provide you with preoperative instructions that may include the elimination of drugs containing aspirin several weeks before surgery to minimize excess bleeding. Antibiotics may also be prescribed.

Afterward

After surgery, some fluid drainage from the incisions is likely to occur. Some pain, burning, swelling, bleeding, bruising, and temporary numbness also may occur. Pain can be controlled with medications, but sensations of stiffness and soreness may persist for a few days.

While a difference in your facial contours will be noticeable soon after surgery, improvement will become even more apparent after about six to twelve weeks, when most of the swelling will have subsided. After about three months, any persistent mild swelling usually disappears and the final contour should be visible.

If your expectations are realistic you will probably be very pleased with the results. 

LIPOSUCTION POST OP INSTRUCTIONS