Liposuction
(Procedures and Examinations)
This guide will help you learn about the liposuction procedure and how to prepare for it.
What is liposuction?
Liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to remove excess fat from specific areas of the body to improve body contour and reduce localized fat deposits. It involves the insertion of a thin, hollow tube (cannula) through small incisions in the skin. The cannula is connected to a suction device to extract fat from beneath the skin.
- Common target areas include the abdomen, waist, thighs, buttocks, arms, neck and under the chin, back, knees, ankles, and cheeks.
Types of liposuction:
- There are several types of liposuction procedures, selected based on treatment goals, target areas, and the patient’s condition. The main types include:
Traditional liposuction:
- A high-pressure suction device is used to remove fat via a cannula inserted through small skin incisions.
Tumescent liposuction:
- A large volume of saline solution mixed with anesthetics and vasoconstrictive agents is injected into the target area. This helps minimize bleeding and pain during the procedure and facilitates fat removal.
Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL):
- A metal probe that emits ultrasound waves is inserted under the skin to break down fat cell walls, turning them into a liquid that can be easily suctioned.
Laser-assisted liposuction (LAL):
Laser fibers are used to liquefy fat, which is then suctioned out. Laser technology provides precision, reduces bruising, and accelerates healing.
Power-assisted liposuction (PAL):
A vibrating cannula is used to dislodge and remove stubborn fat more efficiently and with less physical effort.
- When is liposuction performed?
- Liposuction is not a treatment for obesity or a substitute for weight loss. It is used to remove stubborn fat and may serve cosmetic or medical purposes.
Cosmetic reasons:
- Enhancing body shape and contour by removing fat that is resistant to diet and exercise.
- Achieving body symmetry by targeting specific fat deposits in areas such as the abdomen, buttocks, thighs, arms, neck, and back.
- Medical reasons:
Lymphedema: Chronic swelling in the arms or legs due to fluid accumulation.
Lipedema: Abnormal fat buildup in the legs or buttocks.
- Gynecomastia: Removal of excess fatty tissue from the male breast.
- Health guidelines for liposuction:
- Preoperative recommendations:
- Reach or get close to your ideal body weight.
Discuss all medications and supplements you are taking; you may need to stop certain medications, such as blood thinners 1–2 weeks prior to surgery (under medical supervision).:
- Stop smoking.
- Avoid shaving the area to be treated before surgery.
- Postoperative recommendations:
- Wear compression garments or elastic bandages continuously for several weeks to two months, as advised by your physician, to reduce swelling and bruising and help the skin adapt to its new shape.
- Take prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection, if directed.
- Use pain relievers as needed to manage pain and swelling.
- Change dressings according to your doctor’s instructions and keep the surgical site clean.
- Start light walking as soon as possible after surgery to reduce the risk of blood clots in the legs.
Avoid strenuous activities and exercise for at least one month until fully recovered.
Return to work and light daily activities within a few days to two weeks, depending on the extent of the procedure and individual recovery.
Expect bruising, swelling, and numbness in the treated areas ; these symptoms may persist for several weeks to months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the side effects of liposuction?
- Common side effects include bruising and swelling, which may last up to 6 months. Numbness is also possible, typically temporary and resolving within 6–8 weeks, though it may become permanent in rare cases.
- Other effects may include scarring at incision sites, inflammation of the treated area or veins, and fluid leakage from wounds. Swelling in the ankles may occur if fat is removed from the legs or ankles.
- Are there any complications associated with liposuction?
- Although rare, potential complications include:
- Infection
Fat embolism: Small fat particles may break off and block blood vessels, possibly causing serious complications in the lungs or brain.
Bleeding or clotting: Fat or blood clots can block blood vessels or reach the lungs.