Some regions of the body do not respond to exercise or diet and can continue to hold fat in pockets for long time with no visible results. In such cases, people who want to achieve more aesthetically pleasing body contours can opt to have a liposuction procedure done.
Liposuction procedure is a minor surgery wherein pockets of fat is broken up into smaller globules that can be sucked out using surgical instruments. When combined with other procedures like tummy tuck surgery, breast augmentation etc., and liposuction can be effectively used to eliminate fat from the body.Setting realistic expectations
Is liposuction safe? Yes, it is when performed by a qualified surgeon. However, you need to set realistic expectations from your procedure:
- Liposuction is NOT a weight loss procedure, it does not eliminate stretch marks or cellulite from skin.
- The treatment can only remove concentrations of fat and is not a permanent cure from obesity.
- The ideal candidate for a liposuction procedure is already close to a healthy weight but only needs subtle body contouring.
Who is not eligible for liposuction?
- Pregnant women or nursing mothers
- Patients on blood thinning medication
- People allergic to lidocaine (used in the procedure)
- Patients with serious medical conditions
- Patients suffering from high blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease or diabetes
Types of liposuction
Different types of liposuction procedures are employed to suit the amounts of fat that need to be removed, the area that needs contouring etc. Here are some types of liposuction and the process involved:
1. Tumescent liposuction
Tumescent means anything that is swollen and firm. This type of liposuction involves injecting a large amount of medicated solution (which includes a local anaesthetic) into the fat layer beneath the skin causing the fat cells in the region to swell and firm up. The swollen fat cells are then easily extracted using a cannula.
2. Power assisted liposuction (PAL)
This method again uses the tumescent liposuction solution along with vibrating motion powered by a vibrator. The cannula is inserted into the layer and the area is subject to vibrations to break down the fat cells and loosen them which are suctioned out with a cannula. This lets the surgeon target local areas without damaging the surrounding areas.
3. S.A.F.E. Liposuction
S.A.F.E liposuction involves a 3 step process, viz. separation, aspiration and fat equalisation. This method is best for contour correction and secondary sittings of liposuction procedures. This method uses a non-thermal, fat shifting process that allows for smooth and even fat removal. This generally has good and visible effects.
4. Vaser Liposuction
The Vaser lipo or ultrasonic liposuction technique employs ultrasound waves to break down the fat cells while preserving the tissues around. With Vaser, surgeons can target select areas of the body and liquefy the fat around the area minimising any risks. It also allows for smooth contouring and rapid healing.
Liposuction is done under local or general anaesthesia. The procedure takes about an hour per region to complete depending on the anatomy of the patient and extent of contouring. Every surgeon has a preferred method of performing liposuction. Before the procedure, talk to your surgeon in detail about your expectations and the results. It is important to be on the same page with your surgeon for a successful liposuction procedure.
Go ahead and look fab!
