The physicians and providers of Dermatology Associates of Atlanta understand that everybody is different and every body is shaped differently. For that reason, we offer a variety of fat reduction and liposuction procedures that aren’t one-size-fits-all. Whether you just want to tighten loose skin, get rid of excess fat, or do a little of both, we have a body contouring procedure to meet your needs. Our patients often ask about the differences in fat reduction procedures, so we’ve decided to compile an overview so that our cosmetic treatment patients can be more aware of all of their options.

Drs. Griffin and Karempelis have been practicing tumescent liposuction procedures since 1986, a method that’s still often performed today. In fact, a liposuction study published in ASAPS’ Aesthetic Surgery Journal earlier this year stated that 51% of surgeons preferred tumescent liposuction to other techniques. During tumescent, or “wet,” liposuction, a diluted solution containing a local anesthetic and epinephrine is injected to “puff up” the fat for easier removal. Most patients are able to get back to their normal activities within a week of their procedure, although they should continue to wear post-surgical compression garments in order to reduce swelling and optimize the fat reduction results.

While not exactly a fat reduction procedure, many liposuction patients also pursue fat transfer. During fat transfer, a patient’s own unwanted fat is used to plump up wrinkles and areas of lost volume that contribute to signs of aging similar to the way facial fillers such as Restylane® and Juvéderm work to rejuvenate the appearance.  After the excess fat is removed, it is purified and then re-injected into those areas that need refinement like the hands, wrinkles, and even acne scars. Fat transfer also promotes collagen production for ongoing rejuvenation.More