Excess deposit of fat can be removed by liposuction and it is one of the commonest cosmetic surgery procedure performed at present day.   Though it does not help to treat obesity, it helps to bring the body into acceptable shape.  Liposuction does not done for the weight reduction, however, depending on amount of liposuction, weight reduction 5-15% of total weight can achieved.

Who is a good candidate for liposuction?
How is lipocution done?
Details of surgery
Results of surgery
Complications of surgery

Liposuction is particularly well-suited for men and women who are of relatively normal weight, but have isolated pockets of fat that cause certain areas of their body to appear disproportionate. These localised fat deposits may sometimes be an inherited trait and typically do not respond to dieting or exercise. Liposuction is often the only way to eliminate the.

While it is possible to undergo liposuction at almost any age, you will obtain best results if your skin has still enough elasticity to achieve a smooth contour following fat removal. When skin is inelastic, as in some older patients, it may not redrape well and a skin tightening procedure may be necessary.

Who is a good candidate for liposuction?

Liposuction should not be considered a substitute for overall weight loss nor is it an effective treatment for cellulite(uneven or dimpled skin). Liposuction can be done on several areas of the body at the same time and it can be done in conjunction with other aesthetic plastic surgery.

Liposuction is a good procedure if you have localised excess fat or if you desire contouring in any of the following areas:

Cheeks, jowls and neck

• Hips and buttocks
• Upper arms
• Abdomen and waist
• Inner and outer thigh
• Inner knee
• Calves and ankles
• Enlargement of male breast(gynecomastia)

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How is lipocution done?

Fat is removed by inserting a small tube called cannula through one or two tiny incisions near the area to be suctioned. Incisions are usually less than 0.5cm. Cannulas are connected to a suction machine and fat is sucked out. The amount of fat removed depends on the areas of liposuction and the weight of the person.

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Preparation for Operation:

• Smoking and Aspirin can increase the chances of complications, so it would be advisable for you to STOP or cut down on cigarette consumption 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after surgery.
• Notify the doctor or nurse of any cardiac or medical problems you may have, allergies to any kind of tape, drugs or medications must also be reported.
• The purchase of a specially designed garment is necessary. It is important that you bring the garment with you on the day of surgery.

Morning of Surgery:

• Do not eat or drink after midnight the night before. Have a good body and hair wash with medicated soap and shampoo.
• Please inform the office if you take any heart or blood pressure medications, some medications may be taken with a small sip of water.
• Do not wear your contact lenses, makeup, facial lotion or cream
• Wear clothing that fits loosely and does not have to go over your head, preferably a button down shirt, sweat pants, and slip on shoes.
• Leave all jewelry and valuables at home.

First week after Surgery:

• Expect the effects of anaesthesia to pass slowly, which may take a variable amount of time. Pain medications may prolong the sense of fogginess or cause an upset stomach. The anaesthetic and pain medicines tend to produce constipation, so it is advisable to eat high-fiber foods. Start with liquids, and advance to a normal diet when you are sure your stomach is comfortable. Try to maintain a low-salt diet to discourage water retention
• You will be discharged on the same day or the next day.
• The surgical area may be swollen and extensively bruised for approximately 4-8 weeks after surgery. The time varies depending on the individual.
• You must wear the garment, 24 hours a day, for 4-6 weeks. The garment will help control the swelling. Leg and ankle swelling can be improved by elevating the legs as often as possible.

Few weeks after surgery:

• It is wise to avoid over exposure to the sun, since there is a risk of burning due to numbness of the skin.
• In the immediate post-op period, bleeding from recently operated tissues is a risk. Any activity requiring strenuous exertion (aerobics, sports and weight lifting et cetera) should be avoided for at least six weeks.
• There may be numbness in the treated areas and it may take several weeks before feeling returns.
• Mostly you will be able to return to work in just a few days. Most of the time, you will be able to resume normal activities within one or two weeks
• You can start any form of excercise afer 6 weeks.

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What will be the results of liposuction?

Liposuction will reduce those areas of fat deposition that create bulges in various areas like thigh, buttocks, chest, waist and others. The results of the liposuction will be permanent, as long as you maintain your postoperative weight. Even if you gain extra weight, you will find that it is distributed more evenly instead of accumulating in the areas that were problematic for you in the past.

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What are the risks of liposuction?

The risks of liposuction are related to the extent of liposuction and the general physical health of the person. Some of the potential complications are bleeding, hematoma, infection and reaction to anaesthesia. Bleeding under the skin leads to bruising and swelling which disappear over time. If large amount of fat is removed, one can lose blood and blood tranfusion may be needed. The numbness of skin following liposuction is temporary, it is possible that some lack of sensation may persist or skin become discoloured in treated areas. Contour irregularities including depressions or wrinking of the skin can result in some patients, but treatments are available to help minimise these problems.

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