Fat Removal

Fat removal refers to a range of procedures, both surgical and non-surgical, aimed at reducing or eliminating localized fat. Unlike general weight loss, which involves a decrease in fat throughout the entire body, fat removal focuses on specific areas where fat deposits are particularly persistent. These treatments help patients achieve a smoother, more contoured body shape by targeting and reducing fat in localized regions.

Treatments for Fat Removal

There are numerous fat removal treatments available, ranging from non-invasive procedures that require no surgery to more traditional surgical options. The best treatment depends on the patient’s aesthetic goals, the area of the body being treated, and their preference for invasiveness, recovery time, and cost. Below are the more common cosmetic treatments available for facial reconstruction. Click to learn more about each service and find a Kaiser Permanente provider near you.

Liposuction

Liposuction is one of the most well-known and effective surgical fat removal procedures. During liposuction, a surgeon uses a small tube (cannula) to remove excess fat from specific areas of the body. Liposuction can be used to treat areas such as the abdomen, thighs, flanks, back, arms, and chin. The procedure involves making small incisions through which the fat is suctioned out. Liposuction offers immediate and long-lasting results, with a more sculpted body shape.

While liposuction is highly effective, it does require anesthesia and a recovery period, with patients often needing several days to a few weeks to fully recover depending on the extent of the procedure.

CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting, also known as cryolipolysis, is a non-invasive, FDA-approved fat removal treatment that freezes and eliminates fat cells. Using controlled cooling technology, CoolSculpting targets stubborn fat deposits in areas like the abdomen, thighs, and flanks. The fat cells are crystallized, causing them to break down and gradually be eliminated by the body over time.

CoolSculpting is a popular choice for those who want a non-surgical option with minimal downtime. Results are typically seen within a few weeks, with full results appearing in 2–3 months. CoolSculpting is especially effective for people who are close to their ideal weight but want to target stubborn fat.

Kybella

Kybella is an injectable treatment specifically designed to treat submental fat, commonly known as a double chin. The active ingredient in Kybella, deoxycholic acid, works by breaking down fat cells in the chin area, which are then naturally eliminated by the body. Kybella is ideal for patients who want to reduce the appearance of a double chin without undergoing surgery.

Multiple treatments may be required, depending on the amount of fat in the area, with results typically visible within 4 to 6 weeks after treatment.

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the abdominal area. While it is not a fat removal procedure in the traditional sense (like liposuction), a tummy tuck can significantly improve the appearance of the abdomen by removing excess tissue, tightening the muscles, and providing a flatter, more toned appearance.

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