There are several different methods Dr. Chen uses when performing liposuction, including tumescent liposuction and ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL). In all types, a tiny incision is made in an inconspicuous place, and an anesthetic solution is put into the fatty tissue. An ultrasound treatment is then given to soften the fatty layer and break up the tissues. Then a small cannula is inserted through the same tiny incision into the fat layer and suctions it out.

Recovery from liposuction is relatively quick and most patients feel up to returning to light duty within 2-7 days.

Abdominoplasty(Tummy Tuck)

 A “Tummy Tuck” or Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to flatten a protruding abdomen by tightening the muscles in the abdominal wall and removing any excess fatty tissue and skin.  Many men and women successfully have this procedure that helps to improve their self esteem.  But it is important that you have realistic expectations when having any surgery and understand your probable outcome. 

The best candidates for this procedure are those whose weight has been stabilized after their weight loss program or those who feel they are at their ideal weight.  Sometimes, the tummy tuck is combined with other cosmetic procedures like breast augmentation and liposuction.

The tummy tuck is usually performed in conjunction with liposuction of the upper abdomen and flanks.  An incision is made in the bikini area and sometimes an incision up to the belly button.  Excess skin and fat will removed through this incision.  The area will then be sutured or stapled.

After the procedure, it is important that the patient have bed rest.  Most patients are back to work in 1-2 weeks, depending on the degree of the surgery.  Results can be dramatic and patients love their new figure!

Fat Transfer

Also called micro-lipoinjection or fat transplantation, autologous fat transfer involves the removal and relocation of the patient's own body fat to plump up an area that has lost volume as a result of surgery, injury, aging or another cause. Fat is removed through liposuction, often from the abdomen, buttocks or thighs. It is then processed and injected into the area being treated. Both sites are numbed with local anesthesia.

The procedure is commonly used for breast augmentation, facial wrinkle, and crease reduction. Because the transplanted fat comes from the patient, it does not carry a risk of allergic reaction or rejection. Other advantages include a short recovery time, long-lasting results and effectiveness on any skin type.

 

Laser Hair Removal

Whether for hygienic or cosmetic reasons, the patient who is tired of temporary, often painful methods of removing unwanted hair may welcome laser and intense pulsed light hair removal with relief.

Lasers produce highly focused, intense beams of light that are absorbed by dark pigments in the hair follicles beneath the skin's surface and converted to heat, destroying the follicles and preventing hair growth for up to two years. Multiple treatments are required for complete hair removal -- the follicle must be “active” at the time of treatment, and not all follicles are active at the same time. Treatments are needle-free and do not require anesthesia. Most patients feel nothing more than a slight sting like the snap of a rubber band.

It is possible that some hair will grow back, though it is usually finer and lighter than what was originally removed. There may also be some redness and swelling following the procedure.