Removing Fat with Liposuction

In order to obtain a lean and sculpted silhouette, some patients opt for liposuction, a surgical procedure which removes fatty deposits from many areas of the body.

Liposuction is a surgical procedure which removes fat from underneath the skin and around the muscle of various parts of the body. The goal is to provide a lean and sculpted silhouette which is pleasing to both the individual who is undergoing the surgery and to others. Some consider this procedure to be a quick weight loss technique, but that is not generally the case. True, the individual loses a large amount of fat (and thus, weight), but lifestyle changes like more exercise and less unhealthy foods need to be made in order to prevent that weight from coming back.

In order to prevent bruising as well as reduce recovery time, a new technique called tumescent liposuction has been developed which involves smaller instruments. This technique is performed under local anesthesia, so the patient is alert during the procedure and can offer feedback if desired.

Pre-Surgery Procedures

As with any surgical procedure, pre-surgery consultation is necessary to review your options and determine if your body is ready for the process. You'll meet with the plastic surgeon that you have chosen to review the steps that must be accomplished and the requirements that your body must meet before you can consider having surgery. Part of this informative session will include a review of your medical history as well as a physical exam to determine if your body is healthy enough to withstand liposuction. Once you've been cleared for surgery, you and your doctor will also review the goals of the procedure and set realistic expectations for surgical time, recovery time, and the shape of your body once the procedure is complete. Your surgeon will probably review after-surgery topics too, like caring for the surgical site and changing your lifestyle in order to keep the fat from coming back.

During the Surgical Procedure

As long as your health passes the test, you can move forward with the surgery! A solution of lidocaine, adrenaline and saline will be inserted at the surgical site. These substances cause the blood vessels to constrict (which prevents excessive blood loss), and the fatty tissue to become firm. Lidocaine also provides the anesthetic which makes the surgery more comfortable. Once these medications have taken effect, the surgeon will make a small incision and insert the cannula. This cannula is the small tube which will be used to suction out the fatty deposits which are being removed. The doctor moves the cannula around during the liposuction procedure. This movement breaks up the fat, which is then vacuumed out of your body.

After the procedure, your surgeon will probably encourage you to move around since this speeds the healing process and also helps you begin to feel better more quickly. You'll be given an anesthetic in order to help with the post-surgery pain. You should take it easy for at least a week, and then you can resume most of your normal activities. Your surgeon will let you know at your follow-up visit if you need to postpone any activities for another couple weeks.

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