Some of the most common sites for liposuction treatment include the stomach and thighs. Fat accumulation in these areas is obvious and unsightly, particularly as a result of a pregnancy or aging. However, other parts of the body may also be affected, including areas that may seem very unlikely to accumulate fat. One such area is in the knees, which can accumulate fat due to hormonal changes from pregnancy or menopause. Patients who have experienced significant weight loss may also find that there is excess fat accumulation in the knees. Dr. Paul Pin offers liposuction for the knees to help offset these effects.

Candidates

The best candidates for knee liposuction surgery are those who are in general good health, do not smoke, and are not obese. This surgery is often done for women who are either approaching menopause or are actually menopausal.

Techniques

A knee liposuction procedure can either be performed alone or in conjunction with a thigh liposuction procedure. Because there are not large fat deposits around the knees, the liposuction procedure is often done in conjunction with tumescent fluid to help liquefy the fat and make it easier to remove.

Procedure Steps

A tumescent solution is first used to help melt the fat and make it easier to remove. Small incisions are then made either on the inside of the thighs (if in conjunction with thigh liposuction) or the knees. A very thin tube is then inserted to remove the melted fat, suctioning the excess fat out as the surgeon moves the tube throughout the knee area.

Recovery

Recovery following a knee liposuction procedure is relatively short. As with most other body contouring cosmetic surgery procedures, patients will be required to wear a compression garment for the first week or two following surgery to reduce bruising and swelling. However, most normal daily activities can be resumed within 24 hours of surgery.

Side Effects

Bruising and swelling are the most common side effects following knee liposuction. If there is not enough collagen production at the incision site, the skin may appear uneven or dimpled.

Risks

Just as with any surgical procedure, the two biggest risks from knee liposuction are bleeding and infection. Because the incision sites are very small, the risk of bleeding or infection following surgery is relatively minor.

Results

Patients should begin to see results from their knee liposuction procedure within a week or two following surgery, once the swelling and bruising have subsided. The knees will look more in proportion with the rest of the body.

Dr. Pin recommends keeping to a regular exercise and diet program in order to maintain the effects of any liposuction procedure. The legs and knees are one of the first areas of the body to benefit from a good exercise and diet plan. With today's above-the-knee fashions for women, this is particularly important to keep the knees and legs looking as good as possible following liposuction. Contact Paul Pin, MD, in Dallas today to schedule a consultation at his practice.