Surgical Procedures

Dr. Andrew B. Denton, Facial Plastic Surgeon

It is not uncommon for isolated fat deposits to collect in individuals who are otherwise fit and healthy thereby negatively impacting an otherwise well-proportioned physique. Localized deposits of fat often run in families and are most commonly seen in the chin and neck, cheeks, arms, breasts, abdomen, flanks ('love handles"), buttocks, thighs and knees.

Modern liposuction surgery offers a safe and dependable method of removing unwanted fat and improving body contour. Dr. Denton utilizes the tumescent liposuction technique for facial and body procedures.

Surgery is performed in Dr. Denton's fully accredited private surgical facility in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Learn more about this procedure

Liposuction Techniques

The tumescent technique for local anesthesia has revolutionized liposuction by eliminating both the risks of general anesthesia and the bleeding once associated with the procedure. Using this method and by relying on natural skin elasticity, tummy tucks (and the associated scarring) are rarely necessary.

Candidates for liposuction

Individuals in good general health with areas of excess fat that do not respond to diet and exercise are excellent candidates for liposuction.

Preparing for surgery

On the night before your surgery we ask that you not have anything to eat or drink (including coffee, tea and juice) after 12:00 am. This allows your stomach to empty thereby minimizing any postoperative nausea.

Two weeks prior to your surgery all blood thinning medications and supplements (e.g. aspirin, ibuprofen, ginko, ginseng and vitamin E) must be stopped. This reduces the amount of swelling experienced postoperatively. A prescription for antibiotics and pain medication will be provided.

A simple blood test to measure your hemoglobin level is performed prior to surgery and, if you are over 50 years of age, a cardiogram is required for your safety.

Your surgery

Surgery is performed in our fully accredited operating room under twilight anesthesia. After surgery, patients are taken to our specially equipped recovery area. Once recovered, all patients proceed home in the company of a responsible adult or to an after care facility.

Follow-up

A compression garment is placed over the treated areas to speed healing and to reduce swelling. This is worn 24 hours a day for the first 7 days and 12 hours a day for the next week (either during the day or at night). The garment is machine washable and should be cleaned as necessary. You will be seen in the office on the morning following surgery and again in 1 week to remove skin stitches.

Resuming normal activities

Bending, heavy lifting and straining are prohibited during the first 48 hours. Light non-cardiac exercise can be resumed after one week and increased over the ensuing 7 days. Most patients are permitted to shower 2 days after surgery.

Severe pain following liposuction is unusual but pain medication will be prescribed and should be taken if necessary. Most patients are back to work within 3 to 7 days.

Cost of liposuction

Following your consultation, a quote is provided which is guaranteed for one year. Our quotes include all costs: pre-operative tests, anesthesia, facility charges, the services of our staff, and applicable taxes. You are encouraged to make cost comparisons. In comparing, be sure you determine the total of all costs related to the surgery.

A deposit is required at the time the surgery is scheduled in order to hold a specific date for you. The balance is due two weeks prior to your surgery. For your convenience, we accept MasterCard, VISA and debit cards.

We have arranged a financing plan for our patients with an outside financial institution. Ask our patient care coordinators for details about how to qualify.