Liposuction
Liposuction is a method in which the body can be “sculptured " by removing added fat from tummy, buttocks, arms, knees, cheeks and neck.. Liposuction is not an alternative for diet and exercise, its main target is to help remove extra fat from areas in which fat reduction cannot be done successfully by dieting.
The Liposuction Patient
An initial consultation is the first step to every surgical procedure. Your doctor will discuss treatment options, your overall health, medical conditions and any medications you may be taking. Your doctor will discuss which liposuction procedure as it best fits your health and emotional needs. Advise your doctor if you have any conditions that will affect your surgery, including any diseases, such as high blood pressure, diabetes or thyroidism, that may effect your abilities to accept anesthesia, and heal properly. Advise your doctor if you are currently taking any medications, over-the-counter or prescription. Your doctor will discuss all aspects of liposuction, including the surgical procedure, anesthesia, the risks and costs involved, and the expected recovery time.
Techniques
There are several techniques in which Liposuction can be done:
Solution injection - in which the surgeon injects a special solution to the fat tissue. The solution consists of anesthetics to reduce pain. Adrenalin to reduce bleeding and fluid to help separate the fat from the tissue.
Tumescent technique - much larger amounts of solution is being injected. Surgeons use this method, which allows to inject large amounts of anesthetics, and therefore this kind of procedure can be done with local anesthetics. The operation usually takes longer than the first one (4-5 hours).
Super wet technique - the amount of solution injected equals the amount of fat tissue removed. This method also takes longer time and has to be done with general anesthetics.
Ultrasound assisted lipoplasty - sound waves targeted to fat tissue. The waves break the connection between the fat cells, which are then being removed by suction. This method can be used in areas with connective tissue like the back and male breasts and also in areas that require more precise suction.
After the surgery to avoid swelling the areas of the suction will have elastic bandages. The surgeon may also leave draining tubes to prevent fluid collection. You might also receive antibiotics to prevent an infection.
Risks
Every surgery has its complications. In liposuction of 5 liter of fat and more there is a risk of fat or clot emboli to the lungs and even death. Extra fluids might be difficult to remove. The suction tube may cause skin necrosis or alter sensation in the area due to nerve damage. The ultrasound technique regarded as relatively safe produces, but it is a new one therefore the long term damage still unknown. In general, the surgery presents an extra rick for patients with diabetes, lung and heart disease and for those who had similar procedure in the past.
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