Liposuction
Liposuction,
also known as suction lipectomy or lipoplasty, is
a procedure to improve body shape by removing exercise-resistant
fat deposits with a tube and vacuum device. Common
areas to perform this procedure are the abdomen,
hips, buttocks, thighs, knees, upper arms, chin,
cheeks, and neck.
A
number of techniques can be used including ultrasound-assisted
liposuction (UAL), suction-assisted liposuction
(SAL), tumescent, and super-wet. The surgeon will
explain the body-contouring methods that may be
most appropriate for you.
The
best candidates for Liposuction
The best candidates for liposuction are normal-weight
people with firm, elastic skin who have pockets
of excess fat in certain areas. Age is not a major
consideration, but older patients may have diminished
skin elasticity and may not achieve the same results
as a younger patient with tighter skin. Liposuction
is not recommended for individuals with complicated
diabetes, poor circulation, significant heart or
lung disease, or those with recent surgery in the
region to be treated. It is also not a procedure
for weight-loss.
How
the surgery is performed
The surgeon performs the procedure by making tiny
incisions in inconspicuous areas and inserting a
narrow tube or cannula to vacuum the fat layer that
lies deep beneath the skin. The surgeon pushes and
pulls the cannula through the fat layer, breaking
up the fat cells and suctioning them out.
Liposuction usually takes one to two hours or more
for the procedure, depending on the amount and size
of areas being treated. The procedure is performed
as an outpatient under general anesthesia typically,
but if a large volume of fat is removed, or if the
liposuction is performed in conjunction with other
procedures, you may stay in the hospital overnight.
What
to expect after surgery
Following the procedure, pain, swelling, discoloration
and numbness will be expected. The surgeon will
prescribe pain medication for you to manage your
discomfort. You will need to wear a snug fitting
garment over the treated area(s) for a few weeks.
This will help with swelling and the overall healing
process.
Resuming
work and other activities
You should be able to return to work in one to two
weeks after your procedure, depending on the level
of activity required by your job. Activity that
is more strenuous should be avoided for about a
month as your body continues to heal. Most bruising
and swelling will disappear within three weeks,
but some may remain for up to six months or more.
