5 things you need to know about liposuction – real time experience

1- What is liposuction?

Liposuction is not an overall weight-loss method. People who undergo liposuction usually do have a stable body weight but would like to remove undesirable deposits of body fat in specific parts of the body. It is often used on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, neck, chin, upper and backs of the arms, calves, and back. Liposuction is not a treatment for obesity. The procedure does not remove cellulite, dimples, or stretch marks. The aim is aesthetics. It suits those who wish to change and enhance the contour of their body.

2- what is the use of liposuction?

Liposuction is mainly used to improve appearance, rather than providing any physical health benefits. Liposuction is normally advised only if lifestyle changes have not achieved the desired results. It can treat areas of fat that are resistant to exercise and diet. Results are subtle rather than been dramatic.

3- Who can go ahead with it?

Liposuction works best for people with good skin tone and elasticity, where the skin moulds itself into new contours. People whose skin does lack elasticity may end up with loose-looking skin in areas where the procedure was done! The person definitely needs to be over 18 years of age and in good health. Those with circulation or blood flow problems, such as coronary artery disease, diabetes, or even weakened immune systems should not undergo liposuction.

4- How does the operation look like?

During the operation

Patients receive a general anaesthetics before the procedure, which can last about 1 to 4 hours.

You will have general anaesthetic. You spend the night in hospital.

Support bandages: Either an elasticized support corset or bandages will be fitted for the targeted area.

Antibiotics: These may be given immediately after the operation.

Painkillers: Analgesics can help relieve pain and inflammation.

Stitches: The surgeon will remove the stitches in a follow-up appointment.

Bruising: Significant bruising may occur in the targeted area.

Numbness: There may be numbness in the area where fat was removed. This should improve in 6 to 8 weeks.

5- what are the liposuction techniques?

Tumescent liposuction: Several liters of a saline solution with a local anesthetic (lidocaine) and a vessel-constrictor (epinephrine) are pumped below the skin in the area that is to be suctioned. The fat is sucked out, through small suction tubes. This is the most popular form of liposuction.

Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL): Also known as ultrasonic liposuction, the cannula is energized with ultrasound. This makes the fat melt away on contact. This method is suitable for fibrous areas, such as the male breast, back, and in areas where liposuction has been done before. After ultrasonic liposuction, suction-assisted liposuction is done to remove the liquefied fat. 

Laser Assisted Lipolysis (LAL): Also known as laser-guided lipo, this procedure does require the use of tumescent fluid. It is a less invasive and bloody procedure than the traditional liposuction method for removing fat. A small tube is inserted through a small incision to deliver laser energy and heat into the fat that is under the skin. 

6- When can I see the results?

The results of liposuction will not be clear until the inflammation goes down. Most of the swelling settles after about 4 weeks, and the area where fat was removed should appear less bulky.

People who maintain their weight can usually expect permanent results. Those who gain weight after the procedure may find that their fat distribution alters. Those who previously had fat accumulating in their hips might find that their buttocks become the new problem area.

Shantal from the UK is a vivacious and lovely girl who got in touch with FlyHealth in Istanbul through Social Media. She was apprehensive about the safety reasons and the necessary measures about Liposuction. However, she just took the plunge and went ahead with it. Shantal opted for the Tummy Tuck Liposuction surgery. She is very happy with the results of the same and claims to recommend it to one and all; more so family and friends.

About the writer:

Trishna Patnaik is a BSc (in life sciences) and MBA (in marketing) by qualification but an artist by choice. Previously a corporate professional, she realised that she wanted to do something more meaningful. She found her true calling in her passion, painting. Trishna is now a full-time professional painter based in Mumbai, as well as an art therapist and healer.