Liposuction (Removal Of Excess Fat)

What Is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a procedure that removes excess fat from undesirable places. It allows better contouring of the body to make it well proportioned. Commonly involved areas are the anterior part of the neck (under the chin), upper arms and armpits, male chest/breasts, trunk, abdomen, waist, hips, thighs, inner knees, calves, and ankles.

What Is Tumescent Liposuction?

A fluid is infused into the fatty areas to allow better visualization, evenness of suction and to minimize bleeding . Small suction cannulas are inserted through very short incisions placed in inconspicuous locations near the fat deposits, and excess fat is removed.

Who Is The Best Candidate?

Patient with mild to moderate fatty deposits are the best candidates. Less suitable candidates include patients who are grossly overwight, those on a dynamic weight loss program, heavy smokers or those with a skin overhang.

Do I Need Admission To Hospital? Do I Have To Be Put To Sleep To Do This?

Liposuction is done on an outpatient basis. General anesthesia is usually used for safety and comfort. Small localized areas can be done under monitored care without general anesthesia.
Aspirating large volumes of fat can cause major fluid shift in the body. When 5 liters or more are aspirated, the patient should be admitted for overnight observation. This is to ensure safety and allow the patient’s vital signs and fluid balances carefully monitored.

How Long Does The Procedure Take? What’s The Down Time?

The duration of the procedure depends on the location and amount of fat in each area. The patient is sent home with a compression garment covering the treated areas. Compression is advised for about a month as it helps reduce swelling after liposuction. Initial discomfort is easily controlled with oral medication. Patients are able to go back to work in a 1-2 weeks. Bruising and swelling usually subside in 2-4 weeks. During this time patients are allowed to resume their sporting activities as tolerated. The final result takes shape over 2-3 months.

Is There A Guarantee For My Liposuction?

Most surgeons try their best to accomplish symmetry, uniformity and a suitable contour during liposuction. The patient should be responsible for keeping the result by watching their diet and maintaining their activity. Unhealthy life style and bad food habits will invite more fat deposits that may warrant further liposuction.

Can I Combine It With Other Procedures And Is That Safe?

Liposuction of the hips flanks and thighs can be used as adjunct procedures to Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) or Breast Procedures. In addition, the aspirated fat can be collected, strained and re-injected into the buttocks for enhancement “Buttock augmentation”.

The specific risks and the suitability of this procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of your consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual.

Now that you know more about our Liposuction procedure, continue to our Tummy Tuck page.

Liposuction

Before and After Photos

Liposuction before and after pictures.