As someone deeply involved in the aesthetic industry, I’ve always been conscious of how I present myself and that awareness extends beyond just my skin. Even back in high school, although I was pretty slender, I had a small area around my midsection that I just couldn’t eliminate. In college, I tried noninvasive fat-freezing treatments to address those stubborn pockets of fat around my waistline. While these treatments worked to some extent, they left me with a small divot in my lower stomach, which only made me more self-conscious. For years, I experimented with various noninvasive treatments—heat therapies, radio-frequency treatments, you name it. They helped to a degree, but that divot remained. I was beginning to think I would have to live with it forever.
But the longer I had it, the more I thought about how I could get rid of it. For about six years, I thought about getting liposuction. It felt like the only option that would truly address the issues I was having—particularly that stubborn divot and love handles around my waistline. I was sharing my concerns and thoughts about surgery with a friend who recommended New York plastic surgeon Ira Savetsky, MD. I really loved Dr. Ira’s vibe and how he presents himself on social media. He came across as very kind and I was drawn to the allure of working with such a renowned surgeon. I tend to trust my gut instincts and this time, they told me, “Alright, I’m going to do this.”
A 360-Approach to Liposuction
I scheduled my consultation with Dr. Savetsky in early April. Initially, I thought I’d wait until August to get the surgery, but after looking at my schedule, I realized I could do it sooner. The timing felt right and I trusted my gut. In late May, I went in for my first major surgery outside of getting my wisdom teeth removed in high school, which hardly counts.
Dr. Savetsky and I decided on Vaser Lipo 360, a procedure that would not only address the divot and my waistline but also target my back, sides and front. On the day of the surgery, I also opted to remove a bit of volume from my chest for symmetry, since he was already working in that area. The surgery itself lasted just under four hours, and I was home by 2 PM the same day. Under full anesthesia, I didn’t feel a thing.
The Rules of Recovery
The recovery process was intense but manageable. Dr. Savetsky instructed me to wear a compression garment for at least four weeks, which I followed religiously. I even transitioned from a medium to an extra small size over the course of my recovery to ensure the best results. It’s been hot in New York City, so I’ve taken breaks here and there, but I continue to wear it every night.
I’ve also been diligent about getting regular lymphatic massages—about 14 since my surgery—which have been crucial in reducing swelling and promoting healing.
The Big Reveal
Now, 10 weeks post-op, I’m feeling incredible. The swelling has gone down significantly and my sides have come in a lot more. My skin is still adjusting in the front, but it’s almost fully flat. The results are everything I hoped for and more. I’ve been back in the gym, building muscle and feeling stronger and more confident every day.
The response from friends and family has been overwhelmingly positive. I haven’t even posted about the lipo on social media yet, but those who know have said I look great—fitter and overall healthier. A lot of people told me I didn’t need the surgery, and they’re right—none of us actually need elective surgery. For me, this wasn’t about needing it; it was about feeling the most comfortable in my own skin.
My Best Advice
If you’re considering liposuction, my advice is to do it for yourself, not for anyone else. This was something I thought about for years and only after exhausting all other options did I decide surgery was the right choice for me. Make sure to choose a surgeon you trust and follow their advice closely during recovery. The process requires commitment, but the results are worth it. I’m thrilled I made the decision and can confidently say it was one of the best choices I’ve ever made for myself.
