Liposuction
Liposuction was developed in the 1980's to help patients who have unwanted areas of fat accumulation beneath the skin that are not responsive to diet or exercise. Liposuction is a contouring procedure, not a substitute for weight loss. It can be an adjunct to both weight loss and a good exercise program.
The best candidates are those who are at or close to their ideal body weight and size, yet still have persistent areas of unwanted fat accumulation. Liposuction cannot change underlying bony dimensions, but it can improve contour significantly when subcutaneous fat is the problem.
The most common areas that benefit from liposuction are the abdomen, hips and thighs, although other areas can be treated. If more than one problem exists, liposuction may be combined with other procedures, such as abdominoplasty, for the patient's maximum benefit.
Liposuction is a safe procedure when appropriate guidelines are followed in planning. For safety, we limit the amount of fat removed during any one procedure, as most patients will have liposuction as an out patient.
During liposuction, the surgeon uses a small metal tube (cannula), which is connected to a powerful suction machine. The surgeon inserts the cannula through a small incision into the area of the body adjacent to the unwanted fat. The fat is removed (aspirated). Because the incisions and the cannula are small, the resulting scars usually are inconspicuous. Infiltration of physiological saline solutions with "tumescent" or "wetting solution" allows easier removal of the fatty tissue, less blood loss and added comfort post-operatively.
After liposuction, you will be placed in an elastic support garment, similar to a girdle, while you are still asleep. This garment will cover and compress the treated areas to limit fluid accumulation and provide gentle, even pressure to assure a smooth final contour. You will wear this garment continuously for three weeks, except to bathe. There may be considerable bruising and swelling after liposuction. The most common problem is occasional skin rippling. These conditions will improve considerably in the first three weeks, but the final result can take up to three months. Most patients will be able to resume all normal activities, including walking and driving, in five to seven days. Strenuous exercises should be postponed for three weeks.
A great source of additional information and true stories from actual liposuction patients is www.liposite.com.
