Liposuction

Liposuction is a procedure that many people use to lose weight. It targets the weight loss on specific areas of the body. It is best used to remove fats from small areas such as the stomach, hips, legs, and thighs. It is a common procedure, but it does have some recovery time and risks. A cosmetic surgeon usually performs liposuction.

Why A Person May Need Liposuction?

Liposuction is not a medical need, but a cosmetic option. People who are overweight and have trouble dieting or exercising may choose liposuction to help them get a head start on weight loss. People who have trouble losing weight from certain areas of the body may also choose to have liposuction. The procedure can remove fat from specific parts of the body. In very rare cases, a doctor may need to perform liposuction out of necessity to help remove pressure from certain areas of the body or to help them get a better view inside a patient’s body.

Preparing for the Liposuction Procedure

Before a liposuction procedure, doctors ask patients to prepare by taking medications and avoiding anti-inflammatory drugs. They will check to make sure the patient is in good health and free from any infections. They may also ask the patient to stop smoking and avoid alcohol. Doctors will also inspect the patient’s skin to make sure they are a good candidate for the procedure.

During the Liposuction Procedure

During a liposuction procedure, the doctor will first mark the area he is going to treat. He will use a marker to make a dotted line on the fat that should be removed. He may also take photos of the patient for later comparisons. The patient will receive general anesthesiathat will put them to sleep or local anesthesia that will allow them to stay awake, but be groggy and unaware of their surroundings.

A tube connected to a vacuum will be inserted into the body to suck the fat away. The doctor or plastic surgeon will guide the tube around to ensure that all the fat is gone. In some cases, a laser may also be used to liquefy the fat before the liposuction begins.

Liposuction Recovery

Some people recover from liposuction faster and better than others. Some have to stay in the hospital for a couple of days after the procedure while others can go home the same day. Bruising, swelling, and soreness are common during recovery. The surgeon may advise the patient to wear a compression garment for a couple of months after the procedure to help keep swelling down. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics to avoid infection. Most people recover within a few weeks.

Liposuction Prognosis

Liposuction is successful for most people. Some will need to have several procedures administered. It is important for the patient to give themselves enough time to heal and recover between each session. Patients must diet and exercise if they want to maintain the results they have achieved from the procedure. Some people do experience complications after liposuction including scarring, swelling, bruising, pain, and numbness.