The word meaning of liposuction is fat removal with the help of suction. It is used as a method of weight reduction and body sculpting, though it is not the ideal method of weight loss. It does not replace the proper diet and exercise for weight loss, but only supplement them. As many people lose weight through dietary modification and exercise and approach the ideal weight, some areas of the body can be seen out of proportion due to the fat deposits. These people can be helped by liposuction.
Who can opt for liposuction?
The ideal candidate for liposuction should be close to their ideal body weight (within 30%), has maintained this particular weight for more than six months, has fatty areas at specific body parts which has to be removed, has good skin tone and elasticity. Many people consider liposuction as a method of body sculpting if they have fat deposits in particular areas of their body, mainly abdomen and thighs.
Why is liposuction popular?
The increased success of liposuction in some people is being published as before and after the procedure photographs and people influenced by them are running after the perfectly sculpted body and chase all methods to attain it. The influence of the popular figures in entertainment with a size zero and the perfectly shaped models influence the common people and they go ahead following this dream without considering the possible complications.
Types of liposuction
There are two types of liposuction commonly used today. They are
- Wet liposuction- in which a solution containing lidocaine (anasthetic), epinephrine( to aid in the contraction of the blood vessels and reduce bleeding) and saine solution ( to make the solution saline) is introduced to the area where the liposuction is to be performed. Following this, the fat cells are removed by means of suction.
- Tumescent liposuction- in which a large amount of lidocaine, epinephrine and saline are introduced into the area where the procedure is to be performed and liposcution is performed. The benefits of tumescent liposuction are lesser time for recovery and smoother results. But the procedure takes a longer time than wet liposuction.
- Laser assisted liposuction- which uses thermal energy to dissolve the fat cells.
Most commonly used mechanism of action of liposuction
- Suction assisted liposuction- a canula is inserted through a small incision and fat cells are removed by attaching the canula to a suction device. The surgeon moves the canula around facilitating the removal of fat cells.
- Ultrasonic liposuction- in this the canula used is special. It transmits ultrasound vibrations through the body, resulting in the liquefying of fat cells in the body. The liquefied fat cells are then easily removed with the help of suction. This takes much more time than the standard suction assisted liposuction, but is very effective and the complications are much lesser.
There are other mechanisms of liposuction, but these are the commonly used methods.
Are there any complications of liposuction?
Yes. As any other surgical procedure there are complications involved with liposuction as well.
The common adverse effects which may occur are
- bruising, which may last from days to weeks.
- swelling, also would subside with time.
- scar, usually very small because of the small incision.
- numbness to the area, would get better in some weeks.
There are some major complications associated with the procedure. They are
- allergic reaction to the substances used.
- infection
- skin necrosis
- injury to any internal organ.
- thromboembolism or fat embolism
- lidocaine toxicity
Any experienced surgeon would be careful to avoid the above mentioned complications.
Before and after the procedure:
Many people who have had the procedure done are happy with the results.
Before the procedure, be sure you are aware of the details of it. Have a talk with the cosmetic surgeon who would be able to guide you through the precautions and preparations before the procedure. For example, if you are on aspirin or any other anticoagulant, you might have to stop the medicine for some days before the procedure. Clear any doubts regarding the procedure before signing the consent.
After the procedure, there are some precautions to be followed. You might be required to have bed rest for some days. Intense exercise may not be allowed for some weeks. You might be required to wear an abdominal bandage or compression garment for some weeks after the procedure. The surgeon would guide you through the measures to follow.
If done correctly, liposuction is sure to give wonderful results, as can be seen in the before and after photographs. Please check the credibility of the surgeon before you decide.