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Know Everything about Liposuction

Last Updated: Sep 30, 2023

What is liposuction?

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Liposuction involves removing fat from the body using plastic surgery techniques. The procedure is also referred to as lipo, lipoplasty, or body contouring. In terms of cosmetic surgery, it is a popular choice.

A liposuction procedure is used to enhance a person's body shape or contour. It is performed on parts of the body such as the thighs, hips, buttocks, abdomen, arms, neck, and back to reduce excess fat. Liposuction is usually used after diets and exercise struggle to get rid of excess fat.

Liposuction is not usually considered a method or alternative for weight loss. Liposuction may be a good option for you if you have too much fat in certain areas but otherwise maintain a stable weight.

What are the types of Liposuction?

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There are different types of liposuction surgery available. Your surgeon will recommend which type of surgery is appropriate for you depending on your requirements. The different types of liposuction include:

Tumescent Liposuction

One of the most popular variations of liposuction is tumescent liposuction. The procedure involves injecting a sterile solution into the area that will be treated. In most cases, this solution is composed of saline to help remove fat, an anesthetic to alleviate any pain, and a drug that constricts the blood vessels.

Swelling and stiffening will occur after this sterile solution is injected. A very small tube will then be inserted under your skin through some small incisions made by your surgeon. With the help of a vacuum, fat and fluid are sucked out of the treatment area through a thin tube called a cannula.

Super Wet Liposuction

It is similar to Tumescent Liposuction using a solution injected into the operation site, but Super Wet Liposuction is less invasive and takes less time to complete. There are several ingredients in this fluid, including Lidocaine, a blood vessel constrictor (epinephrine), which is effective in reducing saltwater retention and bleeding.

Injecting the solution into the patient's requested area of the body, the surgeon inserts a cannula, which is a suction tool, to remove excess fat.

Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction (UAL)

Liposuction with ultrasound assistance can be performed alone or in combination with tumescent liposuction. In most cases, a small incision will be made by your surgeon to insert a metal rod underneath the skin.

An ultrasonic beam is emitted from the metal rod, which helps to rupture fat-cell walls as well as break down fat in the treatment area. This leads to the breakdown of the cells and their suctioning out.

Laser-Assisted Liposuction (LAL)

Liposuction surgery with a laser aids fat removal by breaking down fat cells using high-intensity lasers. Small incisions are made in the skin to insert the laser fibre.

Fat cells in the treatment area are then emulsified by the laser fibre, and liquefied fat is then suctioned from the area with a cannula.

How does liposuction differ from tummy tucks?

People choose liposuction when they want to get rid of small fat deposits in their thighs, hips, stomachs or other specific areas. The Tummy tuck is not only good for removing fat, but also for removing excess skin. A flat midsection can be achieved with this method. It is recommended that obese patients undergo tummy tucks rather than liposuction in order to lose weight.

Aside from the stomach, liposuction can also be performed on the arms, chin, or legs. On the other hand, during a tummy tuck, the muscles of the abdominal area are tightened to remove excess skin. Excessive skin and loose muscles are not treated by liposuction.

Is Liposuction a major surgery or a minor surgery?

It is both a major and minor surgery to perform liposuction. Depending on the size of the patient's body and the amount of fat to be removed, the severity of the procedure may vary.

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Instructions after liposuction surgery in order to recover faster

It is essential to follow certain instructions after liposuction surgery in order to recover faster. Healthy recovery starts with these Dos and Don'ts:

Dos

  • Do maintain your weight - You should maintain your body weight and consume a healthy diet that is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, proteins, fibres, and other nutrients. Changes in your body weight can directly influence the results of the contoured areas after your liposuction surgery. Make sure your weight remains stable before and after surgery so that you are as close to your normal, healthy weight as possible. The results will be better if you maintain a consistent weight rather than fluctuating.
  • Do stay hydrated - When recovering from liposuction, it is crucial to stay hydrated in order to avoid dehydration. You can speed up your body's recovery by drinking plenty of water every day.
  • Do engage in light activities and move around at home- The body's healing process can be sped up by doing light exercise, including short walks, in the first 24 hours after liposuction. After surgery, you should move around a little at home to improve circulation but avoid strenuous activity.
  • Do wear the compression garments given by your surgeon- When you leave the hospital, you will be provided with a compression garment, and you must constantly wear it. In addition to maintaining your new figure as it heals, compression garments will enhance the final outcome. It is also important to keep these garments and wounds clean in order to prevent infection. Additionally, keep the surgical area free of pressure by wearing loose-fitting clothes.
  • Do attend your follow-up checkups timely- Make sure you attend your follow-up appointments on time since they allow your surgeon to spot any inconsistencies in your recovery early on and make appropriate changes to your routine.

Don’ts

  • Don’t take Aspirin or Ibuprofen- Avoid taking Aspirin and ibuprofen as they may cause bleeding complications when taken as anti-inflammatory medications. As well as harming the immune system, they may also hinder the recovery of your surgery. Talk to your surgeon about alternative drugs and therapies if you think you'll need painkillers.
  • Don’t do any strenuous activity- It is important not to perform any hefty tasks or strenuous activities that may harm the treated area. The unhealed wound can bleed if you engage in any activity that raises your blood pressure. You should discuss this with your surgeon when you are ready to resume such activities.
  • Don’t smoke or drink- It is important not to smoke or drink while recovering since nicotine can cause permanent scarring, while alcohol can interfere with some medications' effects. In addition, smoking reduces the pace of recovery.
  • Don’t open your compression corset- If your surgeon recommends that you wear a compression garment, don't remove it because it helps reduce swelling and boost your recovery. The chance of developing seroma increases when you switch your garment frequently.
  • Don’t wet the wound- Make sure the wound does not get wet. While you are recovering from your surgery, you should avoid bathtubs, saunas, and long showers.
  • Don’t eat junk food- Avoid eating junk food, sugary and salty foods, or fried foods.
  • Don’t use Liposuction for weight loss- Liposuction should not be used to lose weight specifically. In essence, liposuction shapes and contours the fat in your body to give you the look you always wanted.

Liposuction complications: what are they?

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The liposuction procedure is an effective and safe way to remove excess fat from specific areas. Nonetheless, as with any surgery, complications can arise during or after the operation. We connect you with the best and most experienced surgeons to minimise the risk of such complications. These complications may include:

  • Severe bruising: The treated area may experience several bruisings that might last for weeks following the surgery.
  • Inflammation: A swelling may persist for six months, and fluid may continue to drain from incisions.
  • Thrombophlebitis: An inflammation and complications due to a blood clot forming in a vein.
  • Skin irregularities: A withered, wavery, or bumpy appearance can result from poor skin elasticity, abnormal wound healing, or uneven fat removal.
  • Numbness: There may be numbness in the affected area for a short period of time, but it is usually temporary.
  • Skin infections: Occasionally, liposuction surgery can cause a skin infection. The treatment may require surgery, which can cause scarring.
  • Internal punctures: An internal organ puncture is extremely rare.
  • Death: Anesthesia carries a small mortality risk.
  • Kidney or heart problems: The change in fluid levels in the body caused by injections or suction can cause kidney or heart problems.
  • Fat embolism: An embolism in the lungs is caused by fat getting into the blood vessels and blocking the flow of blood to the lungs. There is a risk of death involved in this situation.
  • Pulmonary edema: Fluids injected into the body can sometimes accumulate in the lungs.
  • Allergic reaction: There is a possibility that the patient may be allergic to the medications used during surgery.
  • Skin Burns: Skin or nerve friction burns can occur as a result of cannula movement.

What is the price of Liposuction treatments in India?

Depending on the state of the patient, the cost of liposuction in India can range from Rs 35,000 to INR. 1,80,000. In most cases, the cost will depend on how much fat needs to be removed from the patient’s body.

Does the treatment have a permanent effect?

Liposuction surgery is capable of removing the fat cells permanently from your body. However, you may gain the weight back and the new fat cells usually go to different parts of your body.

If you wish to maintain your new shape after surgery, eat plenty of lean protein, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products. Regularly exercising is also very helpful.

Does fat grow back after liposuction?

In the treated area, the fat cells that were removed by liposuction do not return after the procedure, and your body will not produce new fat cells afterwards. Despite your plastic surgery, there is still a possibility that the remaining fat cells in the treated area may enlarge.

It is possible for you to gain weight in other parts of your body as a result, affecting the overall contouring effect of liposuction. Since your body won't produce new fat cells after liposuction, you won't likely gain weight in the area treated. The remaining fat cells on your body may enlarge, however, leading to weight gain in other places.

How to maintain your diet and prevent fat from returning after liposuction?

  • Ensure that you eat a healthy diet that includes fresh fruits and vegetables and protein.
  • Organize your life so that you can eat smaller, healthier meals with less fat and sugar.
  • Make sure you stay hydrated, especially if you are exercising or staying in an environment that is hot and dry.
  • In order to burn calories and improve muscle tone, regular exercise is essential.
  • Get more personalized aftercare advice from your surgeon.

Can Liposuction remove love handles?

Love handles can be permanently eliminated with liposuction by removing fat cells.

It is permissible to undergo the surgery if you are at least 18 years old and fulfill the following criteria:

  • A person who is 18 years old or older.
  • A healthy adult who has no more than 30% of their ideal weight but has a good level of muscle tone and elastic skin.
  • Healing can be accelerated if the patient does not have serious medical issues.
  • People who follow a diet and exercise plan but don't see any results.
  • People who do not smoke

Who will not be considered eligible for this surgery?

You will not, however, be considered a good candidate for the surgery if you suffer from the following conditions:

  • Getting rid of cellulite is not possible with liposuction since it is not an effective way to lose weight.
  • A person who is overweight or obese by more than 30%.
  • If your body's healing abilities are impaired as a result of any medical condition or sickness.
  • If your skin is loose or has a low degree of elasticity.

What are the post-treatment guidelines for Liposuction?

Liposuction requires some post-treatment guidelines to be followed to ensure faster healing and recovery. Keeping the following points in mind will help you:

  • After surgery, general anesthesia can last for two to three days. As a result, feeling low and weak during the first two days is normal. It is best not to drive during those days.
  • Bleeding or fluid may ooze from your incision sites. The dressing needs to be changed every day, and your surgeon will guide you on how to do so.
  • A support garment will be prescribed by your surgeon to prevent swelling and pain.
  • To minimise the chances of infection post-surgery, take your prescribed antibiotics and pain medications as directed.
  • Smoking and drinking alcohol should be avoided during the recovery and healing process
  • Any unusual symptoms should be brought to the attention of your surgeon as soon as possible.

What are the side-effects of Liposuction treatment?

Liposuction side effects may vary from one person to the other. The fat cells of your body will be removed permanently from the targeted areas via liposuction surgery. Consequently, fat is still stored in different parts of your body if you gain weight. It is dangerous if the new fat grows around the liver or heart because it appears deeper under the skin.

Liposuction side effects may include the sensation of touch being permanently altered for some people due to nerve damage. In some cases, suctioning causes depressions or indentations on the suctioned area, or it may cause bumpy or wavy skin.

Liposuction - Outlook / Prognosis

It will take a while for liposuction results to become evident once the inflammation has subsided. In some cases, it may even require a few months. There will be a significant reduction in bulk as the swelling settles after about four weeks.

If you keep your weight in check, you can usually expect permanent results. The fat distribution may alter in case the patient puts on extra weight after surgery. The shape you've achieved can be maintained with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is meant by laser-assisted liposuction?

High-intensity lasers are used to break down fat cells for easier removal during laser-assisted liposuction surgery. Fat cells in the treatment area are emulsified by laser fibers, and then liquefied fat is sucked out with a cannula.

What to wear after liposuction?

Your surgeon will recommend you to wear compression garments after your surgery, wearing these compression garments may help with better recovery and outcome after the surgery. Apart from this, you must wear loose-fitting clothes to let the wound heal properly.

What to expect 3 weeks post- liposuction surgery?

3 weeks after the liposuction the pain and soreness will almost fade away, however, the swelling may take longer to completely subside.

How long should I wear a compression garment after liposuction?

It is usually recommended to wear the compression garments for six weeks after the surgery, but this may vary from patient to patient and their pace of recovery. Consult your doctor regarding your compression garment, and follow their instruction on how long you should be wearing it.

How much fat can liposuction remove at one time?

Liposuction surgery is capable of removing a maximum of eight pounds of fat at one time. Increasing the amount of fat removed increases the chances of complications.

Can liposuction change body shape?

Liposuction helps in removing excess fat from specific areas, to improve the contours of your body as per your desires.

Can liposuction get rid of gynecomastia?

Yes, liposuction is typically used to treat gynecomastia or liposuction combined with excision of granular tissue.

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Written ByDr. Santosh BhatiaMS - General Surgery,M. Ch. (Plastic Surgery),MBBS Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of SurgeryCosmetic/Plastic Surgery
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Reviewed ByDr. Bhupindera Jaswant SinghMD - Consultant PhysicianGeneral Physician
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