LIPOSUCTION

Liposuction is the most commonly performed cosmetic surgical procedure worldwide. Developed in the early 80’s, liposuction involves the removal of fat deposits that don’t respond well to dieting and exercise. These fatty bulges are most commonly found in the upper arms, abdomen, flanks, hips, thighs, buttocks, knees, calves, and ankles. They are also found in facial areas such as the chin, cheeks, jowls and neck. Liposuction can be performed alone or in conjunction with other cosmetic procedures to achieve the desired results.

WHO IS THE BEST CANDIDATE?

The best candidates for liposuction are healthy men and women of all ages with good skin elasticity and realistic expectations for surgery. “Realistic” means that improvement, not always perfection, is the goal. The fatty bulges should be localized to a few areas and the individual should be near normal body weight. It is natural for women to develop fatty deposits on their hips, buttocks, and abdomen; in men, fat tends to accumulate around the midsection. In some men, fat accumulates in the breasts (gynecomastia). Note that liposuction will not cure cellulite.

BEFORE SURGERY

During your initial consultation, the doctor will cover all areas of concern, including pre and post-operative care, risks, and answer any other questions you may have. After assessing your fat deposits and skin elasticity, he will tell you where he will make the incisions.

After your initial consultation, the doctor will do a complete physical examination and do some blood work at a second consultation. Photos will also be taken, which will allow you to better see the physical changes once the operation is complete. The doctor will again review with you all the important issues regarding the surgery including pre and post-operative care, expectations and fees. He will also tell you what medications to avoid, such as aspirin, as it increases bleeding. If you are a smoker, you will be asked to avoid smoking two weeks before and after the procedure, as it can seriously affect the healing process.

THE SURGERY

The surgery is performed in our fully equipped surgery center under intravenous sedation and local anesthetic. The patient sleeps comfortably through the procedure and wakes up in the recovery room with no ill effects of general anesthetic.

Initially, small incisions are made approximately one half an inch in length or less, near the area where the fat is to be removed. A thin, hollow tube, called a cannula, is inserted and is attached to a machine or syringe that creates a vaccum. The cannula is strategically manipulated under the skin to remove the unwanted fatty deposits. The doctor will determine the amount of fat to be removed by feeling and pinching the skin throughout the surgery.

AFTER THE SURGERY

The procedure is performed as a day surgery. After approximately one to two hours after surgery, patients are ready to be picked up by a responsible adult. Most patients are mobile immediately after liposuction, although an extra day or two of rest may be needed when large amounts of fat are taken. You’ll likely experience temporary swelling and some bruising. Keep in mind that healing is a gradual process.

The doctor will want you to begin normal activity as soon as possible to reduce possible post-operative complications, although in some cases you may be advised to avoid strenuous activity for 4 weeks. Light exercise is usually permitted within a few days. It may be recommended that you wear a tight-fitting garment, similar to a girdle, after the surgery to reduce swelling. This garment may need to be worn for up to 4 weeks. Your stitches will be removed within a week and a half if they are not absorbable. You will be able to return to work within 4-5 days.

Follow up appointments are booked for 10 days, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after the surgery.

THE RISKS

Complications with this procedure are rare, however they may include uneven skin surface, loose skin, bleeding, infection, residual fat, discoloration, fluid accumulation, numbness, and scarring. Other rare complications include fluid/lung problems, anesthesia reactions, and blood clots in the legs.

THE RESULTS

Your results will likely be visible within 4-6 weeks of the procedure, but the full effect may not be evident for 3-6 months. Patients benefit from an improved body image and enhanced self-confidence. Many patients find that the results are such a psychological boost that they are motivated to exercise and promote healthier living.