Liposuction Surgery

Liposuction, otherwise known as liposculpture, is a procedure which is designed to enhance the shape of the patients body through a process of removal of fat deposits from areas such as the hips, thighs, arms and even chin. The result of this process, is a more sculptured body, closer to the individuals ideal body shape.

For women, liposuction is most commonly performed on the hips, stomach and thigh regions, however it is also possible to have liposuction on the chin, arms and breasts.

Why Have Liposuction Surgery?  

In recent years, liposuction has become increasingly popular, and today large numbers of both women and men undergo liposuction procedures throughout the world. Typically, liposuction will be used to remove areas of fat deposits which have proven particularly resiliant to traditional methods of fat removal such as diet or exercise.

Preparing For The Surgery, And The Procedure:  

Your surgeon will discuss all aspects of the procedure with you at length during your initial consultation, and will explain the potential risks and benefits, and well as some viable altermatives before you take the final decision to under the procedure. 

The surgery itself is generally carried out under a general anesthetic, and will utilise one of a number of methods of liposuction in everyday use. Your surgeon will explain to you the various methods available before recommending the most appropriate technique for your individual requirements.

Wet liposuction is the most commonly performed technique, and in this a fluid is injected into the area to be treated. The surgeon will then insert a special cannula which is used to withdraw the fatty deposits from the area. The use of the saline solution makes it easier for the fat cells to be removed via the cannula. 

Dry liposuction is a less commonly practised technique nowadays, which utilises a similar method of removal to wet liposuction, however does not include the use of the fluid to aid removal.  

Ultrasound liposuction is another commonly used technique, which requires the use of a special cannula which proves waves of ultrasound as it passes through the areas of fatty deposits. The result of these waves, is to rupture the fat cell walls making for a far easire process of removal.

Liposuction Recovery Period:

Following liposuction surgery, you will be required to wear protective garments or bandaging for a period of two to three weeks. The surgeon will discuss with you your levels of activity in the period following the surgery, but it is generally advisable to avoid any strenuous activity for approximately one month following the surgery. The majority of patients will take at least 2-3 days vacation from work following the surgery, although for larger procedures a period of between 7-10 days can be advisable. 

The Risks Of Liposuction Surgery:

Liposuction does require a slightly higher degree of post-operative care in the period immediately after the surgery, and so it is worth discussing with your surgeon their process of post-operative consultations and patient after-care. Complications such as a build up of fluid under the skin can occur, although this is easily treatable by draining through a needle. There is also the risk of the ultrasound device damaging the tissue immediately surrounding the fatty deposits.

Overall however, liposuction is a highly successful procedure, which is carried out with increasing regularity on a daily basis throughout clinics all over the world. Through the use of better, more advanced technologies excellent results are now being seen for individuals that would not previously been possible.