Liposuction is a surgery used to remove excess fat from the body. The procedure is not always recommended, except in cases where diet and exercise regimens fail. The procedure is not considered a typical weight-loss treatment. The areas usually targeted are the thighs, buttocks, arms, and under the chin. Some people also get worried about liposuction scars. Read on to find out more.
Table of Contents
Feel free to skip ahead if one topic catches your eye
- What Are the Areas Usually Treated with Liposuction?
- What to do After Liposuction Procedure?
- What Are the Types of Liposuction Procedures?
- Is Liposuction Permanent?
- Does Liposuction Cause Sagging Skin or liposuction scars?
- Does Liposuction Require a Prior Weight-Loss Regimen?
- How Much Fat Is Safe to Remove From the Body?
- Is Liposuction Safe?
- Summing Up
1.What Are the Areas Usually Treated with Liposuction?
Liposuction is primarily aimed at the following areas of the body:
- Thighs
- Calves
- Buttocks
- Abdomen
- Back
- Chest
- Arms
- Hips
- Chin
- Neck
The fat in these areas tends to accumulate and may not disappear even after a strict diet and exercise. Liposuction is the only way to remove these kinds of excess fats from the body.
Pre Operative Preparation
Before opting for the procedure, the surgeon notes all the relevant medical information. Several tests may be ordered to identify any potential risks. Certain medications that the patient may be under are also discontinued.
Liposuction Procedure
The procedure for liposuction depends upon the area of operation and the extent of fat removal. In the case of smaller areas or little amounts of fat, it may be an outpatient procedure, and more extensive surgeries may require both general anesthesia and an overnight stay.
The doctor initially marks the lines where the incisions will be placed. The time needed for the procedure depends upon several factors, such as;
- Age
- Presence of pre-existing ailments
- Vital signs
- Anesthesia
- The area and amount of fat removal
There may be some pain after the procedure, which varies from person to person. Usually, medications are prescribed for relief. The open wounds are also fitted with surgical drains to improve the removal of excess fluid.
2.What to do After Liposuction Procedure?
After liposuction, wearing tight and compressive clothing is necessary. This improves the drainage of excess fluid more rapidly. The wounds may leave bruises or liposucion scars that fade out over time. The body contour may take some time to settle into its intended position. A few days of rest are usually recommended following the operation.
3.What Are the Types of Liposuction Procedures?
There are four major types of procedures for performing liposuction:
#1. SAL
This is the classical liposuction procedure. A mixture of anesthetic solution and fluids are injected into the target area. Incisions are made, and a cannula is introduced. It sucks the fat and other fluids using a vacuum principle.
#2. UAL
UAL stands for Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction. It involves a metal rod inserted under the skin. It releases vibrations to break down fat cells, making the fat more fluid and easier to remove. A newer innovation in this field is known as VASER. It also helps contour the skin correctly following the procedure. Following this, the excess fat is drained out through a cannula.
#3. PAL
PAL stands for Power Assisted Liposuction. In this procedure, the cannula itself has a back and forth motion. This allows the plastic cosmetic surgeon to knead and manipulate the fat easily. It makes it easier to pull out without damaging skin contour. According to several studies, PAL shows reduced chances of postoperative complications. The procedure is usually recommended for cases with large fat removals. It may also be used if the person has had a prior liposuction procedure.
#4. LAL
LAL stands for Laser Assisted Liposuction. Instead of using scalpels and ultrasound, the procedure is carried out by LASER. The laser is introduced into the fat tissue using optical fibre, followed by fat emulsification under the skin. The emulsified fat is more fluid and can be removed using a cannula.
4.Is Liposuction Permanent?
Liposuction is not a standalone procedure; it is intended to remove excess fat from regions where diet and exercise fail. After the operation, people may develop excess fat in those areas. These are usually due to improper eating or exercise habits. Liposuction is not a one-stop fat removal procedure, and the procedure’s effects must be retained by maintaining healthy lifestyle habits.
5.Does Liposuction Cause Sagging Skin or liposuction scars?
Contouring is a crucial procedure following fat removal. After liposuction, the excess layers of fat are removed from underneath the skin. The skin can then be reshaped and contoured as desired. Thus liposuction generally does not leave behind saggy skin.
6.Does Liposuction Require a Prior Weight-Loss Regimen?
There is no target body weight for opting for liposuction. However, it is advisable to reduce the fat burned through diet and exercise beforehand. This allows for more minimal surgical procedures. Also, it helps achieve a better skin contour.
7.How Much Fat Is Safe to Remove From the Body?
The allowed limit for fat removal from the body is five to six liters. Any further reduction may result in increased risks for complications, both during and after the operation.
8.Is Liposuction Safe?
Liposuction is a surgical procedure carried out in aseptic and sterile conditions. The procedure is risk-free. Doctors also advise specific tests before opting for the procedure, and this rules out other potential risks such as allergic reactions or preexisting medical conditions. One can Visit Handa Cosmetic Surgery Clinic In Delhi for better details.
Post-Operative care for Liposuction
It is crucial to follow post-operative care after liposuction to ensure the patient has a smooth and prompt recovery. Below mentioned are some of the steps that patients should follow after liposuction:
- Follow the surgeon’s instructions: It is essential to follow the post-operation instructions given by the surgeon to avoid post-operative complications and guarantee a speedy recovery.
- Compression garments: After the liposuction procedure, patients will need to wear compression garments to aid reduce swelling and enhance healing. These garments should be worn as directed by the surgeon.
- Rest and avoid strenuous activities: Rest is crucial after liposuction. Patients need to avoid strenuous activities, including lifting heavy objects, for at least two weeks after the procedure is done.
- Take prescribed medications: The surgeon will prescribe certain painkillers and antibiotics to help manage pain and prevent infections. It is vital to take these medications as directed.
- Stay hydrated: Post the Liposuction procedure, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, this will help flush out toxins and reduce swelling.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol: Smoking and alcohol can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications. It is critical to avoid smoking and alcohol intake for at least two weeks after the procedure is done.
- Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy and balanced diet will promote healing and help the body recover faster.
- Attend follow-up appointments: It is important to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor the progress and ensure a smooth recovery.
By following these post-operation steps, the patient can experience prompt healing, reduced swelling, bruising, and an ensured smooth and successful recovery after the liposuction procedure.
9.Summing Up
Liposuction is not a shortcut route to gaining a fit and healthy-looking body. The procedure is usually more successful when a person already has a healthy routine. The pain varies from person to person, although it subsides within a few days. The liposuction scars left after the procedure are minor to negligible and will fade over time. The treatment can remove around three to five litters of fat from the body without causing significant complications. Liposuction can also be used to treat conditions such as gynecomastia.
