Whether it’s love handles that won’t budge or a bit of excess fat around the chest or abdomen, male liposuction offers a targeted solution with natural-looking results. Let’s explore this growing trend below and discover why it’s all the rage in The A and beyond.

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What Is Male Liposuction & How Does It Work?

Liposuction is a surgical body contouring procedure that removes stubborn fat deposits through a thin, hollow tube called a cannula. At The Swan Center, we offer advanced liposuction techniques such as:

Tumescent liposuction

How it works: Tumescent liposuction involves injecting a specialized solution containing a local anesthetic into the targeted fat layer. The fluid helps swell the tissue, making fat removal more precise while minimizing bleeding, discomfort, and recovery time.

Best for: Men with localized areas of soft to moderately firm fat who desire subtle body contouring with minimal downtime. It’s an appealing option for first-time lipo patients.

Ultrasonic Liposuction

How it works: This advanced method uses ultrasonic energy to liquefy fat cells before removal. It is ideal for treating dense or fibrous areas often seen in male patients, such as the chest or flanks. Plus, it allows for smoother contouring with reduced trauma to surrounding tissues.

Best for: Men undergoing revision liposuction or patients looking for enhanced contouring in more challenging treatment areas.

For men, the goal is to achieve a naturally athletic appearance, not to slim down excessively. We focus on maintaining masculine contours and muscle definition while reducing excess fat that won’t respond to diet and exercise. Our knowledgeable, board-certified surgeons help you understand and explore your liposuction options during your personalized consultation before recommending the best approach for your unique needs.

Why More Men in Atlanta Are Choosing Liposuction

Atlanta’s fast-paced, active lifestyle plays a major role in the rising popularity of male liposuction. Men want to look as good as they feel, especially when it comes to professional presence, social life, or simply feeling confident in fitted clothing.

We’ve also noticed that many of our male patients are motivated by life events—hitting a milestone birthday, going through a divorce, or preparing for a high school reunion. Let’s not forget the pull and power of looking good on Zoom and social media platforms! Whatever the reason, guys are looking for discreet, effective solutions to achieve their goals—and we’re happy to deliver results that help them look and feel their most confident.

Top Treatment Areas for Men: Where Liposuction Makes the Biggest Impact

While women often target the thighs and hips, men typically seek liposuction in the following areas:

• Abdomen: Reduces belly bulge and creates a flatter, firmer midsection (hello, six-pack!)
• Love handles (flanks): Helps define the waistline
• Chest: Treats gynecomastia (enlarged male breasts)
• Neck and jawline: Offers a more sculpted, youthful-looking profile

Each male body is different, so treatment plans are highly individualized. During your consultation, one of our board-certified plastic surgeons will map out the best approach based on your anatomy and goals.

Liposuction vs. Weight Loss: What’s the Difference?

It’s important to note that liposuction is not a substitute for weight loss. Instead, it’s a body contouring procedure to remove localized fat pockets that persist even after clean eating and consistent exercise. Similar to our male tummy tuck patients, ideal candidates for male liposuction are already close to their goal weight but want a more sculpted, proportionate body. Our surgeons ensure male liposuction patients have a realistic understanding of the procedure, recovery, and results. Patients who struggle to lose weight may benefit from our semaglutide weight loss injection program.

Transformative Results, Inside and Out

We applaud men who choose liposuction to reveal the best version of themselves. Our patients often tell us they feel more confident in athletic wear, professional attire, or even just shirtless at the pool. The transformation can be subtle or dramatic, but the impact on confidence is always meaningful.

Check out our liposuction before-and-after gallery to see real male liposuction success stories, and explore more cosmetic procedures tailored just for men.

Why Men Choose The Swan Center for Liposuction

Our experienced body contouring surgeons specialize in male body contouring and understand the unique nuances of the male anatomy. This expertise allows us to achieve virile, natural-looking results tailored to your individual goals. In addition to delivering on your aesthetic vision, we prioritize your privacy every step of the way, offering discreet care in a welcoming environment where your comfort and trust always come first.

Ditch Your Dad Bod & Renew Your Confidence

If you’re considering male liposuction in Atlanta, you’re not alone. Whether you’re hoping to redefine your “dad bod,” boost your confidence, or refine your physique, our experts are here to help you reach your goals—safely, discreetly, and effectively. Please request a consultation using the online form or call us at (770) 667-0904 to explore your body sculpting options.

Be sure to inquire about our limited time summer surgical special!

What Does Liposuction Do?

Liposuction removes stubborn fat deposits that don’t respond to diet and exercise. It’s designed to contour specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, hips, arms, and back to create a more balanced and proportionate appearance.

How Does Liposuction Work?

Liposuction uses suction technology to remove fat from targeted areas. A thin tube called a cannula loosens the fat (with or without the help of a secondary energy source such as vibration or ultrasonic waves) and then vacuums it out of the body. Depending on the specific technique being employed, you may get an injection of a tumescent solution, which firms the fat for easier removal and acts as a local anesthetic.

How Is Liposuction Done?

Liposuction is typically performed under general or local anesthesia, depending on the areas being treated and the amount of fat removed. The procedure usually takes 1 to 3 hours, and patients can return home the same day. Recovery involves wearing a compression garment to minimize swelling and promote healing.

How Long Does Liposuction Last?

The results of liposuction are long-lasting, provided you maintain a stable weight. While the fat cells removed during the procedure do not grow back, the remaining fat cells can expand if you gain weight. Staying active and eating a balanced diet are key to preserving your results.

How Much Fat Can Be Removed With Liposuction?

The amount of fat removed depends on your individual needs and health considerations. Your plastic surgeon will discuss realistic goals during your consultation and whether a staged, multi-session approach may be needed to reach your cosmetic goals.

How Much Weight Can You Lose With Liposuction?

Liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure—it’s a contouring treatment. While you may notice a slight drop on the scale (and you may even drop a size or two), the focus is on reshaping the body, not shedding pounds. For significant weight loss, other methods may be more appropriate.

What Is the Difference Between a Tummy Tuck and Liposuction?

A tummy tuck addresses loose skin and weakened abdominal muscles, often after pregnancy or significant weight loss, while liposuction removes fat. In many cases, the two procedures are combined to achieve optimal results.

Ready To Sculpt Your Dream Body?

If you are interested in learning more about how liposuction can give you shapely contours and a slimmer figure, please request a consultation online or call The Swan Center for Plastic Surgery at (770) 667-0904 today.

First Week: Rest & Recuperation

After your liposuction procedure, expect to feel some soreness and swelling. This is entirely normal and will gradually improve throughout the week. You’ll likely be prescribed pain medication to manage any discomfort. Our surgeons recommend plenty of rest and relaxation during this initial phase.

Here are some recovery tips for week 1:

• Compression is key: Diligently wear your compression garment as instructed by your surgeon. This helps minimize swelling and supports the treated areas.
• Elevate when possible: Elevate the treated areas when resting to further reduce swelling.
• Hydration is essential: Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
• Listen to your body: Regular short walks are essential for circulation and recovery, but don’t push yourself too hard. Prioritize rest for optimal healing.

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Weeks 2 & 3: Gradual Progress

By week 2, you should start to feel more comfortable. The swelling will begin to subside noticeably, and your range of motion will improve. You may be able to return to work, depending on the physical demands of your job.

Here are some recovery tips for weeks 2-3:

• Light activity is okay: With your surgeon’s approval, you can gradually resume light exercise routines such as walking or gentle yoga.
• Maintain a healthy diet: Eating nutritious foods will support your healing process.
• Continue wearing your compression garment: Wear your compression garment as directed by your surgeon, typically for several weeks.
• Attend follow-up appointments: Keep your scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress.

Weeks 4 to 6: Back in Action (Almost!)

By week 4, most patients experience significant improvement in swelling and discomfort. You should be able to resume everyday activities, including most types of exercise. As the swelling continues to diminish, you’ll see a noticeable change in your body contour.

Here are some recovery tips for weeks 4-6:

• Increase your activity level: Gradually increase your exercise intensity with your doctor’s approval.
• Enjoy the results: You should start to see and appreciate the sculpted results of your liposuction procedure.
• Patience is key: The final results may take several months to become fully visible as the swelling completely resolves.

By following your surgeon’s instructions and incorporating these recovery tips, you can optimize your healing process and enjoy a smooth transition back to your routine.

Take the Next Step

Ready to find out if liposuction is right for you? Contact The Swan Center for Plastic Surgery today to request a consultation, or call our office at (770) 667-0904. Our board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Bauer, Dr. Cat, and  Dr. Fardo, specialize in liposuction and body contouring procedures. They can create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve your body contouring goals and ensure a comfortable recovery.

Below, we answer your top questions about liposuction for a double chin so you can make an informed decision about this popular cosmetic procedure. 

1. How much is double chin liposuction? 

Liposuction costs at The Swan Center typically start at $4,800, but your actual cost will depend on the technique used and how many areas you are treating. Your costs will differ if you want to use the removed fat to augment and contour another part of the face (such as the cheeks) for greater fullness. We will provide you with a personalized quote during your consultation. 

2. What will my liposuction results look like? 

Curious about the results of chin liposuction? The photos below showcase the smooth, well-contoured necks and jawlines our patients achieve with this procedure.

You can check out more neck and chin liposuction before and after photos in our photo gallery. 

3. How long does chin liposuction last? 

Liposuction is a long-lasting solution to remove excess fat from the chin and neck. Once we remove the excess fat, it typically does not return unless you experience significant weight fluctuations. However, the aging process can affect the appearance of your chin and neck over time. To enjoy your results as long as possible, we recommend maintaining a stable weight and adopting healthy lifestyle habits. 

4. How do I sleep after chin liposuction? 

It’s normal to have concerns about how to sleep after chin liposuction. Typically, you will need to keep your head and neck elevated for the first few nights to reduce swelling and promote better blood circulation in the treated area. Extra pillows or a wedge-shaped cushion can help you prop yourself up for a more comfortable sleeping position. Remember: Quality sleep plays an integral role in your recovery. 

5. Does chin liposuction hurt? 

While comfort levels vary from person to person, many individuals report minimal pain during and after chin liposuction. We typically use local anesthesia to numb the area during the procedure. However, you may experience some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort in the days following the procedure. We will prescribe pain medication if necessary and provide instructions for managing any discomfort. 

6. Are there alternatives to surgery? 

Although liposuction requires small incisions and is less invasive than many other procedures, it is still a surgical operation. If you want to treat a double chin but aren’t sure if you are ready to commit to surgery, we will happily discuss your unique case with you to determine the best course of action.  

Say Goodbye to Your Double Chin Today! 

Ready to take the next step toward enhancing your facial profile? Our board-certified plastic surgeons would love to help! We are known for our thoughtful, personalized approach to body contouring and will work closely with you to achieve the most flattering and natural-looking results. 

Please request a consultation online or call us at (770) 667-0904 to get started. 

There’s no denying that a curvier, fuller backside is in vogue, and Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedures have helped thousands of patients enhance their derriere. But did you know there’s more than one way to achieve a better backside? 

Here, the expert team of plastic surgeons at the Swan Center for Plastic Surgery in Atlanta break down the differences between a surgical BBL and an injectable BBL and share their professional insight into the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision about which option is right for you.

What is a surgical BBL?

A surgical BBL is a two-part procedure that involves fat transfer. Your surgeon uses liposuction to harvest excess fat from other areas of your body, typically the waist, abdomen, or thighs. This fat is then carefully purified and strategically injected into your buttocks to enhance the size and shape. 

Pros of surgical BBLs:

• Customizable body contouring. A 2-for-1 option is hard to pass up, especially when you consider the complementary benefits. Liposuction not only provides the fat you need to boost your buttocks, it also offers an opportunity for overall body reshaping by slimming other areas that are generally diet and exercise-resistant.
• Noticeable enhancement. A surgical BBL can be tailored to achieve modest enhancements or provide some serious va-va-voom! Your surgeon will discuss your goals and assess your available fat stores to determine how much enhancement is possible.
• Long-lasting results. The effects of a surgical BBL are generally permanent because a good portion of the fat transferred to your buttocks becomes a part of your body’s natural tissue. Most patients enjoy their new, shapely seat for many years!

Cons of surgical BBLs:

• Requires surgery. Since it’s a surgical procedure, there are potential risks associated with anesthesia and surgery, plus possible complications related to fat transfer. (Choosing a plastic surgeon who specializes in surgical BBLs greatly reduces the chance that you’ll experience adverse effects and betters your chances of achieving beautiful BBL results.) 
• Considerable recovery process: Post-operative recovery can be a bit daunting and may require a significant time investment for healing. This isn’t because a surgical BBL is particularly invasive, but rather to ensure optimal results; you’ll have restrictions on sitting and lying down for about 6 weeks to prevent the pressure of your body weight from negatively affecting the shape of your newly enhanced buttocks.
• Initially tentative results: There’s no way to know for sure how much injected fat will stay where your surgeon places it; about 20-40% is reabsorbed by your body. Your surgeon will likely harvest and inject more fat than necessary to achieve your results to account for this factor. Diminishing fat stores may cause asymmetry or dents; some patients will want a secondary “touch up” BBL procedure to add more volume and smooth imperfections.

When performed by a BBL specialist, both a surgical and non-surgical BBL can safely achieve an alluring silhouette.   

What is an injectable BBL?

The injectable BBL is a non-surgical alternative to the traditional BBL that uses injectable fillers to enhance the shape and volume of the buttocks. Two popular products used in this procedure are Radiesse® and Sculptra®, which stimulate natural collagen production in your skin to gradually improve the size and shape of your buttocks over time. 

Pros of injectable BBLs:

• No surgery or downtime required. An injectable BBL avoids the scars and potential risks associated with surgery. You can typically resume your normal activities immediately after the procedure; most appointments take under an hour! 
• Conservative results. The increased collagen stores will add subtle volume over several weeks, mimicking the booty-boosting effects that you might experience with exercise. This means it will not be evident you’ve just had a procedure to help sculpt a rounder, fuller buttocks. 
• No minimum body fat requirement. There’s a chance that if you lack volume in your buttocks, you may not have much to spare elsewhere on your body. The good news is an injectable BBL can help naturally thin patients add natural-looking curvature to their bottom half!

Cons of injectable BBLs:

• Temporary results. The results of an injectable BBL typically last between one to two years. Your individual results will depend on the product used and your body’s response.
• Multiple treatments. Most patients need 2 or more treatments to achieve optimal results, and you’ll need to schedule regular touch-up injections to maintain them. 

So, which one is right for you?

The first step in deciding which gluteal enhancement option is right for you is to have an in-depth consultation with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon who is highly experienced in both procedures. They will consider your personal goals, anatomy, and lifestyle to guide you in the decision-making process and develop a personalized treatment plan to achieve the level of enhancement you’re looking for.

Schedule your BBL consultation at the Swan Center for Plastic Surgery in Atlanta

Whether you’re leaning towards a surgical BBL or considering an injectable BBL, our practice offers both options, and our board-certified plastic surgeons and fabulous patient support team will work to ensure your personalized procedure is performed correctly and safely. To learn more about your body contouring options and which procedure you are a good candidate for, schedule your consultation by calling 770-667-0904 or fill out our online form to receive a call back from our team—we’ve got your back! 

It’s the middle of August, and now that kids are back in school, there’s significantly less parental stress. Parenting often takes up every minute of the day, leaving no time for parents to focus on themselves. With children out of the house, you have more time for you with fewer distractions. 

More time on your hands means figuring out what to do with it, and deciding what makes you feel confident. This time is yours. Why not put the focus on shaping yourself into a better, more confident you? 

Take your newfound freedom and explore new exercises that work best for your body and recipes that are healthy and nutritious. Already working out, eating clean, and still not feeling like the strong and confident person you are? There are other options you can explore. CoolSculpting could be the perfect alternative for you to consider.

Your happiness benefits your children’s happiness.

Your kids feed off of your energy. What if both you and your kids were the real rockstars of the house? You can encourage your own kids to feel good about themselves more effectively when you’re feeling good about you. Stop hiding those troubled areas that make you feel self-conscious. With CoolSculpting, you can embrace your new look and feel healthy and confident in doing so. Your children’s support will make you the real winner of the game of life, and loving your new body is the grand prize. 

Look beyond your body.

Radiating confidence is more than just about a pristine appearance — it’s also about feeling good while doing the things you love. Beyond a new look, here are a few different ways you can spend free time so you can truly shine. 

• New hair: A new hairstyle can really complement that new body of yours. Healthy hair can give a healthy boost to your self-esteem. 
• Clean your house: Living in a clean space gives you a wonderful sense of accomplishment, reduces anxiety, and feels like a fresh start every day. 
• More time to exercise: Exercise can help you feel happier and reduce your risk of disease. Maintaining an active life will also ensure lasting results and help keep that stubborn fat away.

Book your consultation today! 

Believe me, I know the toll that pregnancy takes on a body! I happen to have two children myself, and as a plastic surgeon, I spend much of my time helping patients with these exact issues. Seeing both sides of the story has given me some unique insights I like to share with my patients.

If you’ve thought about getting a mommy makeover to help you look and feel like you did before you became a mom, you’re in good company—there are thousands of other women going through this exciting process right now.

For those of you on the fence about having a procedure to restore your appearance post-pregnancy, I’ve answered some of the most common questions my own patients ask before their mommy makeovers.

• Is a mommy makeover worth it?
• What does a mommy makeover include?
• What is the hardest part of mommy makeover surgery?
• How much is a mommy makeover in Atlanta?
• How long is mommy makeover recovery time?
• Will having more kids ruin my mommy makeover results?

Is a mommy makeover worth it?

Truthfully, only you can answer this question, but I can share my experienced perspective and some feedback from my own patients that may help. A mommy makeover is first and foremost about restoring comfort and confidence in your appearance and loving your body. It’s not about “looking perfect” or even achieving some sort of externally imposed ideal image. My goal is to listen to a patient’s goals, and then work with her to achieve her desired changes. Those often include:

• Having breasts that are firm, no longer sag, and look great in clothing
• Reducing the size of the nipples or areolas
• Getting rid of excess skin in the midsection
• Regaining a discernible waistline!
• Smoothing stubborn fat pockets
• Tightening stretched vaginal tissues or sagging labia
• Alleviating stress incontinence
• Improving comfort and sensation during sex

Believe it or not, an experienced plastic surgeon can help you achieve all of these goals with a mommy makeover. What is more, these changes—and the boost in comfort and confidence they bring—can last for years or even decades, especially if you are finished having children (more on that below).

But you don’t have to take my word for it. Here’s what a few of our Atlanta mommy makeover patients at The Swan Center have said about their procedures:

“So much of my day-to-day centered around [how to] minimize my stomach, and just had me so preoccupied with myself—which I hated. I realized that with 4 kids at home I needed to be fully present. I couldn’t be distracted by issues of vanity and still be the mom they deserve. I needed to just have these areas taken care of, once and for all—and that’s exactly how it was. I feel like I am so much more free and I just don’t feel consumed by these insecurities anymore….The changes these procedures have brought to my everyday life have been so wonderful.”

“My sex life was affected, I could [only] wear certain clothing, and walking too long caused me to cry it hurt so bad. I no longer have any of that! I’m a little over a month post-op and I couldn’t be happier. I can FINALLY wear tight clothing again and do not have pain. This surgery has changed my life for the better!”

“My concerns were addressed, my preferences were followed, and I could not be more pleased with my results. I have zero regrets…”

What’s the hardest part of a mommy makeover?

This differs from person to person, but there are two top things I hear. First, many women say it’s the recovery. Second, costs. Thankfully, both are solvable.

Recovery

I’ll tackle the subject of recovery first. It takes some time and, depending on the procedures you have, you will be quite limited in terms of activity, especially during the three or four weeks after surgery. While pain is typically easily managed with medication, not being able to pick up your kids or help them as much as usual is hard for many moms. I have two tips.

First, get help. Some moms are lucky to have Grandma eagerly waiting to step in and help, but if you don’t, talk to friends and see if various people can help cover you, especially at key times such as when your kids need to get ready for school. You can also plan to trade childcare—if your friends can help take care of your kids, you’ll return the favor later, when they want a weekend away or plan to have their own mommy makeover. Second, if you and your kids are typically inseparable, get creative about bonding during recovery. Ask them to hop in bed with you (just not on you!) and tell you stories, or watch a cartoon marathon together. Have them be helpful, refilling your water and fetching stuff you need. Just be sure to let them know they need to be extremely gentle with you while you get better! Kisses are great, but bear hugs are off limits.

Affordability

Now let’s talk about costs, as that can actually be the most challenging aspect for some patients. There are plenty of patient financing options and our patient care coordinators will help make applying and securing financing easy for you.

To save ahead (or gather up a down payment), keep your eyes on the prize with reminders. Print out a few before and after photos of mommy makeover patients who looked like you in the before photos and stick them where you’ll see them daily, to help remember to skip any extra purchases. Also consider that clothes you buy now likely won’t fit your new, improved shape, so you might as well freeze all shopping and instead save for your new look.

While there is a savings if you have multiple procedures in one day, if multiple procedures (i.e. breast lift and a tummy tuck) are simply impossible for you to afford all at once, consider splitting them up over a few years. Address your biggest concern first, and you’ll get a lot of satisfaction while you’re paying down that procedure. You may also need a bit less time off work after a single procedure, which can help with affordability in the short term.

How much is a mommy makeover in Atlanta?

Mommy makeovers are totally individualized to a patient’s needs, so prices vary significantly. For example, if you are having only a breast lift, your total costs will be much lower than a patient who’s having a tummy tuck and labiaplasty, as well as breast lift.

One advantage of having a mommy makeover with multiple procedures is that you pay operating room and anesthesiologist’s fees only once, potentially saving you thousands of dollars over having two or more separate surgeries (you’ll also save time by having only one recovery). To give you a ballpark idea, let’s look at a popular mommy makeover procedure combo: breast lift with augmentation and tummy tuck. Here at The Swan Center, a breast lift with augmentation starts at about $10,800 and a tummy tuck starts at about $7,000. The price of this combined mommy makeover surgery would likely land somewhere between $14,000 and $17,000.

How long is the mommy makeover recovery time?

The downtime you’ll need depends on the procedures you have. If the surgical aspect of your mommy makeover is limited to breast surgery, you may need only 5 to 10 days off work. A tummy tuck will require 2 to 3 weeks off. During this initial recovery period, you will need full-time assistance with child care, as you will not be allowed to lift anything over about 5 to 10 lbs. or do any strenuous play or household tasks. Driving is not allowed until you are off prescription pain medications and you can wear a seat belt comfortably.

The idea of taking time off for recovery probably seems daunting, even laughable (take time, you ask? I need to find it first!). I get it—and if you have questions, ask your plastic surgeon! They can tell you how long to have an adult caretaker for your kids after surgery or suggest reputable home health care or babysitting services, should you prefer to hire someone. They will also tell you which specific activities are okay and which ones are off-limits as your recovery progresses.

Will having more kids ruin my mommy makeover results?

“Ruin” is a strong word, but future pregnancies will likely undo some improvements made with a mommy makeover, which, after all, is intended to correct pregnancy-related effects. Just like before, your stomach and breasts will stretch out and may not contract all the way back to their previous state. Therefore, I typically recommend women postpone major lifting or skin removal procedures, such as breast lift or tummy tuck surgery, until they’re finished having children.

This does not mean that you have to live with unwanted changes between pregnancies. If your breasts have lost volume but you have minimal skin sagging, breast augmentation can provide a boost in shape with little risk of interfering with your ability to breastfeed. Non-surgical treatments, such as ThermiVa, or the O-Shot can help smooth down fat bulges and rejuvenate vaginal tissues, respectively, with no downtime.

Considering a mommy makeover in Atlanta? Get in touch!

As a female plastic surgeon in Atlanta, I’ve chosen to make mommy makeovers one of my specialties, because I simply love every aspect of working with real moms! It is so rewarding to help another women make positive changes and see her confidence soar as as a result.

I hope I’ve answered a few of your questions here, but I’m sure you have some more of your own. When you’re ready, I’d love to chat with you about your concerns and your various mommy makeover options at a personal consultation. There’s no charge for this visit at The Swan Center; it’s your chance to talk with an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon and learn. Call (770) 667-0904 or contact us online. I look forward to meeting you soon! —Dr. Cat

By now you’ve most likely heard—via Vogue, goop or from your own peeps—about this cool technology that slims down stubborn fat pockets without surgery.

A favorite? The CoolMini. This smaller applicator is shaped to get rid of a double chin using the same safe, effective nonsurgical fat reduction treatment patients have come to know and love.

Does the CoolMini Work?

Yes, and we have clinical evidence to back it up! In a recent study, male and female participants underwent two separate cryolipolysis (fat freezing) treatments with the CoolMini. After a 12 week period, clinicians measured submental fat reduction (i.e., how much smaller their double chins were), and participants were asked about their experience in terms of comfort during treatment, side effects, and overall satisfaction.

Here’s what they found out.

• 93% of those who underwent CoolMini treatment were happy with their results.
• Most reported only very mild side effects, such as numbness and tingling, which resolved before surveys were collected.

The CoolMini gets max approval from our patients!

It’s great to see studies to back up the safety and effectiveness of this new application but what’s most important to us is what our own patients have to say—and so far they love the ease of treatment, the freedom to go right back to their normal day without downtime, and, of course, the great results they see in their chin and jawline contours within just a couple of months!

It’s not just for double chins…

One more thing we love? The unique size and shape of the CoolMini makes it perfect to fit other smaller areas of the body, including pesky bra bulges and fatty areas above the knee.

Ready to feel better than ever in your own skin? We’d love to help. Contact us today to learn about all of your Atlanta double chin reduction options at the Swan Center for Plastic Surgery.

Drains. There’s just nothing sexy about them. Even the word has a bit of an ick factor—especially when you’re talking about the drains some patients need for a week or two after a tummy tuck.

Wait, did you say “drains”? Why do you need drains after a tummy tuck?

If you’re not yet acquainted with the concept of drains, they are small pouches that are attached (temporarily) to the body after surgery via a thin tube and secured with sutures. Drains allow fluid that would otherwise accumulate at the surgery site to drain into the pouch.

Drains can help prevent seroma after a tummy tuck, but they can also be uncomfortable and inconvenient for patients…

Traditional tummy tuck techniques separate the overlying skin and fat layer from the abdominal muscles, tighten the muscles, and then pull the skin/fat layer down, removing the excess tissue and suturing the results in place at the incision site. This creates a space that, until healed, can allow fluid to enter and result in a complication called seroma—a buildup of fluid that can elevate infection risk and compromise your results. For years, plastic surgeons have used drains to help reduce seroma risk after a tummy tuck.

No doubt, drains serve a good purpose, but they can also be uncomfortable for patients, not to mention…kind of gross. Drains must be emptied periodically, which is not difficult, but may be the last thing you want to worry about during the early days of your tummy tuck recovery. Additionally, showering is not allowed while drains are in, which many patients find to be the worst thing about them.

If you’re among the many who dread dealing with drains, we’ve got good news…

Our plastic surgeons can use special techniques to reduce or even eliminate the need for drains following tummy tuck surgery

The technique is called “progressive tension suturing.” Instead of relying on the sutures in the lower belly, near the incision site, to hold the newly tightened abdominal skin in place while you heal, our surgeons will place a series of internal sutures between the skin/fat layer and the muscle wall. This provides more even tension along the remodeled tissues and closes the space between the skin/fat layer and the abdominal muscles. You might think of it like having an invisible quilt beneath the skin, versus a plain blanket pulled tight.

Drain-free tummy tuck surgery is our Atlanta plastic surgeons’ preferred method. Not only is recovery more pleasant for patients, but we can often achieve better-looking results with this technique.

Closing this space prevents excess fluid from building up and dramatically reduces risk for seroma according to peer-reviewed study—this means no drains are needed to collect fluid.

The benefits of a drain-free tummy tuck go beyond no drains

At the Swan Center in Atlanta, drain free tummy tuck surgery is our plastic surgeons’ preferred method for many reasons. Not only does it make recovery more pleasant for patients, but it can actually achieve better-looking results—the more even tension provided by progressive suturing helps your scar heal more finely. Additional benefits include:

• Better contouring ability. The drain-free tummy tuck technique lends itself very well to incorporating liposuction into the procedure, so we can sculpt a better overall shape, versus only firming and flattening the front of the belly.
• Less discomfort after surgery. You have no drains to carry around and no tubes causing pressure and irritation around your incision sites.
• You don’t have to deal with the hassle of emptying, measuring, and logging the amount of fluid in drains.
• You may get back to work more quickly. Drains can be difficult to hide beneath clothing—especially if you’re having a tummy tuck during the heat of summer. If you are cleared to return to work, the absence of drains may save you from using extra vacation days to keep drains under wraps.
• Fewer post-operative risks. One study showed that progressive suturing dramatically reduced seroma compared to older techniques. Without drains, we also eliminate the added risk of infection associated with drains.
• You get to shower within a few days after surgery. Enough said.

Still, having drains for a week or two is way better than having a seroma

Although our Atlanta plastic surgeons will perform a drain-free tummy tuck whenever possible, there are certain cases in which it is necessary to use drains to ensure optimal results. If it turns out that drains are the best option for you, we will teach you step-by-step how to take care of them after surgery. Typically, drains are left in place for only one to two weeks before they are removed during a brief, in-office procedure.

Also, take heart knowing that most patients who’ve had drains say the experience wasn’t nearly as bad as they expected. (A few even say it is satisfying to see would-be swelling leaving the body.)

Thinking that a drain-free tummy tuck is the way to go?

We’d love to help you learn more! All of our Swan Center Atlanta board certified plastic surgeons are very experienced with drain-free tummy tucks. During a personal consultation, they can help you determine whether you are a good candidate and what results you can expect from tummy tuck surgery. Contact us anytime.

Any incision into the skin can leave a scar but those associated with the modern techniques of liposuction, like the ones we do here in Alpharetta, are very tiny and essentially invisible. Any qualified plastic surgeon can place an incision in a location where it will be difficult to see. Liposuction is also far less invasive than it used to be, but here are some facts you need to know about potential liposuction scars to help alleviate some of your concerns.

In the old days, traditional liposuction involved making a fairly large incision to accommodate a large tube (a cannula) which was inserted into the skin and moved around vigorously to loosen and then suck out the excess fat with a powerful vacuum. Today plastic surgeons most commonly perform liposuction using a much smaller, endoscopic size cannula. If liposuction scars do occur, they will be very tiny, nearly invisible, and should fade quickly.

Another type of liposuction we do here in Alpharetta is laser-assisted and ultrasound-assisted liposuction. When these types of liposuction are done, fat cells are liquefied by heat, making them easier to remove. These techniques are less invasive and typically cause less bruising and scarring. A consultation with one of our board certified plastic surgeons will equip you with all the information you need to decide on which technique is best for you.

If you’re concerned about scarring or want to know more about the procedures we perform, contact our office today. We will be more than happy to help.