Liposuction
People with realistic expectations of the surgery are almost always very pleased with the results. Liposuction can leave you feeling more comfortable to wear a wider variety of clothes and more at ease with your body Although it is not a substitute for dieting and exercise, the procedure can eliminate fat from areas of the body where traditional weight-loss methods have failed.
By maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise, you can keep your new shape for years to come.
SURGICAL/PROCEDURE NAME
Liposuction
Lipoplasty
Suction Lipectomy
COMMON NAME
- Liposuction
SURGICAL PROCEDURE
Liposuction is a process that will remove the excess or unwanted fat from the desired areas, usually the chin, neck, above the breasts, upper arms, abdomen, buttock, hip, and thighs. It can be performed together with other cosmetic, plastic surgery such as tummy tuck, facelift, etc.
A surgeon will make small incisions and insert a cannula to loosen excess fat. The dislodged fat is then suctioned out from the body.
DURATION
1-6 hours
ANAESTHETIC
General, Twilight or local anesthesia – discussed with your surgeon
PRE-OPERATIVE CARE
Before surgery, please inform your surgeon of any allergies, all medical conditions, and any medication that you are taking (both prescription and non-prescription).
To eliminate the chance of post op. bleeding, you should avoid aspirin and any medication containing aspirin for 2 weeks prior to surgery. You should also not smoke for 1-2 months prior to surgery as smoking can affect your reaction to the anesthetic and slow down the healing process. Patients who suffer from hypertension must inform the surgeon prior to surgery.
POST OPERATIVE CARE
Oral antibiotics, pain reliever, anti swelling medications and wound dressing material are provided upon discharge from the hospital. Bruising, swelling,numbness, soreness and burning sensations can occur for a few weeks with full recovery up to 1-6 months, depending on your condition, the amount of fat taken, and the treated areas.
You may be provided a compression garment to wear after surgery for 1-2 months to minimize the swelling and support the shape of your new body contour. Avoid any heavy activities and excessive force for 2-4 weeks. The recovery period is usually about 3-5 days, depending on each person’s condition. While there may still be some swelling and bruising, most people are happy with the result and return to work and their normal social lifestyle after approximately 5-14 days.
RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS
Like all surgical procedures, liposuction surgery has its own set of risks and side effects.
EDUCATE
Knowing what complications may arise, as well as what can prevent them, will help patients enjoy a positive experience.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
- Infection
- Unsatisfying results
- Excessive bleeding
- Adverse Reaction to anesthesia
- Need for second or more procedure
- Asymmetry / uneven fat removal
- Scarring
In order to prevent any serious difficulties, patients are strongly urged to follow all instructions provided by their surgeon.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
