Liposuction, also called lipoplasty or suction-assisted lipectomy or abdominoplasty or liposculpturing, removes deposits of excess fat from specific areas of your body or face and neck. It is one of the most common modalities used for body contouring. The procedure has evolved from mechanical liposuction to the more advanced techniques like power assisted, ultrasound assisted and latest laser assisted and so are the results.
Considering Liposuction and Abdominoplasty
You may be a good candidate for liposuction if you have fat excess or desire contouring in the following areas: cheeks, jowls & neck, upper arm, breast or chest area, back, abdomen & waist, hips & buttocks, inner & outer thighs, inner knee and calves & ankles.
While it is possible to undergo liposuction at almost any age or any weight you will obtain the best results if your skin still has enough elasticity to achieve a smooth contour following fat removal. When skin is inelastic( too many striae, as following multiple pregnancy) it may not re-drape well and an additional skin tightening procedure may be necessary. Suction creates tunnels through fatty layer and retrieves the fat out. These tunnels collapse and the superficial layer sticks to inner layer giving the desired contour. Pressure garments help in this process in post-operative period. Laser assisted liposuction also stimulate collagen synthesis which help in improving skin elasticity and retraction.
Liposuction and Abdominoplasty Surgery is a technique of body contouring and should not be considered a substitute for weight loss.
Liposuction and Abdominoplasty Surgery can be performed on several areas of the body at the same time. But remember its patients safety and quality result which matters not the amount of fat removed.
How is Liposuction performed?
Liposuction is performed in an operation theatre under suitable anaesthesia. The "Tumescent" technique is commonly used.
Fat is removed by inserting a hollow tube (cannula) through one or more tiny incisions. These are generally about a centimeter in length and are placed as inconspicuously as possible. Blood vessels and nerves are preserved as the cannula passes between them. Suction creates
A compressive dressing or pressure garment may be placed over the areas that were suctioned. Any discomfort will be controlled by medications.
Post-operative recovery
The dressing will be removed within a week. You will notice swelling and bruising which is expected. Both will subside after a few weeks. Stitches will generally be removed by the tenth day after surgery. The pressure garment must be worn as instructed for at least 4 to 6 weeks after surgery and for better result 3 -4 months is recommended.
You may return to work in a few days and resume most of your normal activities within a week or two
Possible risks and complications
You may have a detailed discussion about this during your personal consultation. Some of the possible complications include - anaesthesia related complications, swelling & bruising (temporary), fluid collection, hematoma, infection, contour irregularity, fat embolism etc.