Liposuction uses a suction method to eliminate fat from some body parts, such as the hips, buttocks, abdomen, thighs, arms, and neck. It also contours this area. Liposuction is not considered as an overall weight-loss alternative or weight loss method. You can be a liposuction candidate if you have more fat in specific parts of the body than others. Cleveland Plastic Surgery Institute has a board of certified plastic surgeons ready to help you eliminate stubborn fat in your body.
Why is liposuction done?
Liposuction is done to eliminate excess fat from parts of the body that have not responded to exercise and diet. It can also be used for the treatment of gynecomastia or breast reduction. After gaining weight, the fat cells increase in volume and size. These fat cells are reduced by liposuction in specific areas of the body.
The amount of fat eliminated depends on the volume of fat and the appearance of the area. The resulting change is permanent as long as you maintain your weight. After liposuction, the skin shapes itself to the new contours in the treated areas. If your skin tone is excellent and elastic, the skin will appear smooth.
To be a qualified candidate for liposuction, you have to be healthy without health conditions that can complicate the surgery, such as coronary artery disease, restricted blood flow, weak immune system, or diabetes.
What to expect
Before the surgery
Before the procedure, your surgeon can make lines and circles on the areas to be treated. How your liposuction is done depends on specific techniques.
Tumescent liposuction. It is a common type of liposuction. Your plastic surgeon injects a sterile solution into the area that is to be treated. The solution makes the area swell and stiffen. The surgeon cuts into the skin and inserts a cannula, a thin tube, under the skin. The tube is connected to a vacuum, which suctions fluids and fat from the body.
Power-assisted liposuction. This liposuction uses a cannula, which moves in a back and forth motion. The vibration allows the surgeon to suction tough fat faster. This type of liposuction can cause pain and swelling. Surgeons can choose this method if large volumes of fat need to be pulled out.
During the procedure
Some liposuction techniques require only regional or local anesthesia. Others require general anesthesia that includes temporary unconsciousness. The surgical team can give you a sedative through IV injection to keep you calm and relaxed. They also monitor your blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels. If you feel pain after having local anesthesia during the procedure, tell your surgeon to adjust the medication. The process can take up to several hours, depending on the amount of fat to be removed.
Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that has some significant risks. It is not an alternative for weight loss, and not everybody is a good candidate. Ensure you meet with certified plastic surgeons and learn about the potential risks and complications before surgery. Cleveland Plastic Surgery Institute has plastic surgeons who help you get rid of stubborn fat. Call them today and book an appointment.
