Men and women in the San Diego area consistently rank as some of the fittest in the nation. More in-shape local residents are benefitting from targeted liposuction procedures, according to board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Richard Chaffoo.
La Jolla, California (April 2010) – Plastic surgery may be helping the athletic men and women of San Diego stay fitter and healthier, according to a local surgeon. Dr. Richard Chaffoo is a triple board-certified plastic surgeon who says that, for many of his patients, targeted San Diego liposuction procedures can be ‘just what the doctor ordered’ to refine body contours of the already-fit and allow them to continue their healthy habits.
“People here in San Diego have found many ways to get out and enjoy our beautiful weather. We’re a city of dynamic, athletic, in-shape folks and our bodies reflect that lifestyle,” explains Dr. Chaffoo. “So, when many San Diegans come to me for body contouring, they’re looking to fine-tune their ‘trouble spots,’ not remove a lot of extra skin or fat. For these patients, I often recommend liposuction because it can target those small areas in a way that other procedures cannot.”
Dr. Chaffoo is quick to clarify that liposuction is not a weight loss method. In fact, most of the La Jolla liposuction procedures he performs are for people at or within 10 pounds of their ideal weight. He says that, for people close to reaching their goals, the improvements from liposuction are often the inspiration needed to “get through the home stretch” and lose their final few pounds.
“Often, after a person loses diet- and exercise-resistant fat, they experience a sense that their body is no longer working against them. That concept can be crucial for promoting a healthy lifestyle,” he explains. “Even for patients who are already fit, losing an extra inch or two or dropping down a clothing size can be immensely motivating.”
Dr. Chaffoo cautions that patients who have lost a significant amount of weight should probably consider a different San Diego plastic surgery procedure such as a tummy tuck or body lift. Unlike liposuction, these procedures can tighten the loose skin that can be a major concern for massive weight loss patients. Whether patients choose liposuction or one of these other body contouring procedures, Dr. Chaffoo makes sure that they know how to maintain their results in the long term.
“Liposuction can offer a solution for people who already have a healthy lifestyle. But, people should realize that they still need to maintain their good habits after the procedure,” he explains. “In the end, I want all of my patients to be able to take advantage of the benefits of plastic surgery as fully as possible. With the right doctor and the right expectations, there’s no reason liposuction can’t be a rewarding – and even life-changing – experience.”