Liposuction is a procedure that can help sculpt the body by removing unwanted fat from specific areas, including the abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, knees, upper arms, chin, cheeks and neck. Although no type of liposuction is a substitute for dieting and exercise, liposuction can remove stubborn areas of fat that don’t respond to traditional weight-loss methods.
Candidates for liposuction
Any one or combination of the following conditions may indicate that you are a good candidate for liposuction surgery:
- Areas of fat deposits that are out of proportion with the rest of your body and do not go away with diet and exercise – so called ‘diet resistant fat’.
- Areas with minimal amounts of excess skin (Liposuction removes fat not skin) and good skin elasticity.
- Liposuction surgery may be considered to treat areas of excess fat in the stomach, buttocks, hips, love handles, saddlebags, thighs, calves, ankles, breasts (including male breast enlargement), back, arms and neck. Liposuction is equally effective in both men and women. Consultation During the initial consultation, you may be asked to look in a mirror and point out exactly what you would like to see improved. Pictures may be taken of you, especially if the areas that will be treated are on your posterior aspect (back, buttock, etc.). This will help your plastic surgeon to understand your expectations and determine whether they can realistically be achieved. A determination of the elasticity of the skin will also occur.
- A discussion concerning your ideal weight and realistic weight will most likely occur. Plans such as future pregnancies, etc. may be discussed.
You should come to the consultation prepared to discuss your medical history including previous surgeries, past and present medical conditions, allergies and current medications. It is important for you to provide complete information. High blood pressure, thyroid problems, diabetes, etc. should be reviewed as these medical conditions may increase some risks associated with surgery.
About Liposuction Surgery
The basic technique of liposuction involves the removal of fat via a hollow metal tube (cannula) that is passed through the fatty tissue. One of the most common types of liposuction involves the removal of fat by attaching a pump that generates a vacuum. This is known as suction assisted liposuction (SAL). In addition, a motor may be used on the cannula that causes the cannula to vacillate back and forth thus performing much of the “work.” This is known as power assisted liposuction (PAL). An ultrasonic generator may produce sound waves above audible frequency that “breaks” the fat cells, and the broken down fat is removed by SAL. A laser can also be employed to break down the fat cells. Each of these methods have advantages and disadvantages. These methods will be discussed with you at the time of the consultation. Additionally, the above techniques may be combined to yield optimal results. The decisions concerning the appropriate technique will be judged by your plastic surgeon.
The results of liposuction surgery are usually long-lasting, but they may be affected by weight gain, aging, pregnancy and lifestyle factors. Understanding the Risks of Liposuction Fortunately, significant complications from liposuction surgery are infrequent. Liposuction surgery is one of the two most common procedures performed by plastic surgeons. Most often this surgery is performed without experiencing any major problem.
The risks in most surgeries are similar. Some of the potential complications that may be discussed with you include hematoma (an accumulation of blood under the skin that may require removal), infection, changes in sensation, scarring, allergic reactions, damage to underlying structures, need for revisions, unsatisfactory results possibly necessitating additional procedures, and medical risks. Other risks more specific to liposuction may include indentations and irregularities.
You can help minimize certain risks by following the advice and instructions of your plastic surgeon, both before and after your liposuction surgery. Pre-Operative If you are a smoker, it is recommended to stop smoking well in advance of surgery since smoking can impair the healing process after liposuction. London clinic Nip N Tuck’s surgeons advise that certain medications increase the risk of bleeding, such as Aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Some vitamins/homeopathic regimens should be discontinued before undergoing liposuction surgery.
Liposuction surgery is usually performed as a day case . If this is the case, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery and to stay with you for the next 24 hours. If you are undergoing large volume of liposuction, it may be recommended that you be hospitalised for the night. Recovery from Liposuction Surgery It is important to realize that the amount of time it takes for recovery varies greatly among individuals.
During the first 48 hours following liposuction surgery, London clinic Nip n Tuck’s surgeons note that patients experience varying degrees of swelling and bruising. The swelling persists longer. Bruising typically disappears within seven to ten days. Stitches are usually removed within a week of surgery.
Straining, bending over and lifting should be avoided during the early postoperative period. In many instances, you will be able to resume most of your normal activities within ten days or less. Liposuction Results Liposuction surgery usually improves contours. In some instances it may be used in a circumferential fashion, thinning an area. Since the healing process is gradual, you should expect to wait at least several months to get an accurate picture of the results of your liposuction surgery. London clinic Nip n Tuck’s surgeons note that the small incisions used for access of the cannula, will fade over a number of months, usually becoming almost invisible.
If your expectations are realistic, you will probably be very pleased with the results of your liposuction. London clinic Nip n Tuck’s surgeons note that you may find that you are comfortable in a wider variety of clothes, and more at ease with your body. And, by eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise, you can help to maintain your new shape.