Can Vaser lipo of the thighs, knees, calves and ankles actually change leg shape?
I had Vaser lipo of my inner, outer thighs and knees. My legs, and knees are slightly smaller but still have no shape to them (like tree trunks). I am contemplating another round of lipo with a different doctor who says he can lipo the same area as well as my calves, ankles and the front of thighs to create a more shapely leg. He states he does lipo and contours the area, not lipo to just minimize size. I also had lipo on upper arms with same result and he states he can contour the shape there too. I feel very good about the consultation however, I am a little hesitant just because I wasn't happy with previous results and I wonder if my expectations are too high. I am 5' 135lbs and I have extremely muscular legs. I am concerned about sagging skin & wonder if his promised are realistic. He is a board cert plastic surgeon/. Prior lipo done by board very cosmetic surgeon. Is it really possible to change the shape of legs with lipo?
Vaser liposuction can really contour the shape of the body. Liposuction is targeting fat deposits between the skin and muscle. Genetics can play a big role in the natural shape of the body. If you have extremely muscular legs, you need to see where the fat deposits are. The doctor cannot alter the muscle size or shape. You need to discuss this clearly with your plastic surgeon. He needs to help you understand what areas have fat and what areas are muscle. You also need to make sure you have firm skin in order to have the best results. If a patient has flacid skin, they may not be the best candidate for liposuction. Sometimes skin removal is necessary. Your expectations needs to be clearly discussed with the doctor to make sure you are making the best decision. Communication is the key.
Liposuction and liposculpture works best for problem areas. When you start restructuring the body, the dangers of loose skin and superficial skin irregularities increase.
It never hurts to have a few consultations with reputable plastic surgeons to weigh in as well and get a consensus. However, if the first plan did not produce the results you wanted, make sure the second plan is not the same as the first!
Liposuction can be used to contour the fat between the skin and the muscles of the legs. It cannot be used to change the shape of the underlying leg structure. If the muscle contour of your legs is camouflaged by an excess amount of fat then it may be possible to reduce the fat to the point where the natural contours become more apparent. Be aware that liposuction in the lower leg (calf/ankle area) is somewhat difficult to perform compared to some other areas of the body. Be sure your surgeon has some experience in liposuction of these areas.
For the best results seek the consultation of a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. They have a website listing all the certified plastic surgeons. Members of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery will all be board certified in plastic surgery and have demonstrated an interest and competence in cosmetic plastic surgery as well.