Liposuction is a highly effective technique for the removal of localized areas of fatty deposits that won’t go away with diet and exercise. Unfortunately, it is not effective as a technique for losing a lot of weight, and it won’t remove excess skin. With the right circumstances and reasonable expectations, liposuction can lead to satisfying and durable results.
How is it done?
The initial examination will determine if you are a good candidate for liposuction, and what areas might be addressed. Commons areas are the flanks, lower abdomen, thighs, arms, and the neck. Any area with fat can be suctioned if done carefully. On the day of surgery, markings are performed with your input. After the administration of anesthesia (local for small areas, general anesthesia for larger), the areas are filled up with a solution that reduces pain and bleeding. Suctioning is performed with a series of tubes, or cannulae of different sizes. The procedure is continued until the excess has been removed. The incisions for the cannulae are about a quarter of an inch in size and usually heal well. They are hidden in inconspicuous areas. A compression garment is used afterward to reduce swelling.
What about recovery?
Recovery is not significant. Discomfort may last a day or two. Bruising is variable. Some clear drainage may last a day or two. Normal activity can be resumed when comfortable. Final results take about two to three months, once the swelling is completely gone.
What about risks?
Irregularities can be seen under the skin, but being both well-trained and careful we rarely have this problem. Infection and bleeding are rare. Severe complications are uncommon and usually related to very large volume liposuctions, so we limit the areas treated to those which can be safely combined.
