Sometimes, specific areas of the body just don’t respond to traditional weight-loss and toning methods. This can be frustrating, particularly for people who have dedicated a lot of time and effort to improve their appearance but aren’t seeing the results they want.

Fortunately, liposuction is an option for many of these patients. Suction-assisted lipectomy (the “official” name of the procedure), which is used to remove unwanted localized fat deposits, is effective, minimally invasive, and causes little to no scarring.

What makes a patient a good candidate for liposuction? According to Dr. Tenley Lawton of Newport Beach, those considering the procedure should have the following characteristics:

General good health
For liposuction to be most effective, people should be at a healthy weight and have relatively firm and elastic skin. Those who have medical issues or who are taking certain drugs should discuss options with their doctor before liposuction — or any procedure. While age is not a determining factor, older patients might not see the same results as those with more elastic skin.

The right expectations
Liposuction is an excellent tool to firm and contour areas such as the chin, neck, upper arms, and flanks (love handles), but it’s not magic, and it won’t completely transform your body. Those looking for radical changes should consider other procedures to help achieve their goals.

A commitment to health
Although liposuction can have an excellent impact on stubborn areas of the body, it’s no substitute for a healthy lifestyle. Even after having liposuction performed, patients should continue to follow a diet and exercise plan to maintain the appearance they desire.

If you’re considering liposuction, a consultation with Dr. Lawton can help determine if it’s the right option for you. Contact us today to discuss your options and start down the road to the body you’ve always wanted.