Liposuction
Overview
Liposuction is a common plastic surgery procedure. Often, localised fat deposits may develop in various regions of the body. These regions usually persist in spite of proper diet and exercise. The areas that most often benefit from this procedure are the waist, abdomen, thighs, buttocks and hips, but liposuction can also be performed on the face, legs and back. It can be performed in conjunction with other cosmetic procedures, like tummy tucks or face lifts. Liposuction is not an effective treatment for cellulite or obesity. Individuals who consider liposuction should be healthy and relatively fit, have firm, elastic skin and good muscle tone, and be within 5% of their ideal weight.
Procedure
Small incisions are made. A thin cannula connected to a vacuum is used to selectively remove fatty deposits. We commonly use power assisted liposuction . Laser or ultrasound assisted liposuction is occasionally used, but generally offers little advantage and is usually much more expensive.
Anaesthetic
Liposuction is performed in our procedure room with an anaesthetist under conscious sedation or in theatre under general anaesthetic.
Recovery
Moderately painful.
50% recovery in 7 days
80% recovery in 6 weeks
99% recovery in 6 months
Risks
Generally low risk. Because skin is not removed, one might have redundant skin. Worsening of cellulite. Asymmetry. Infection. Fluid toxicity and blood clots are serious complications, but are fortunately rare and occur more frequently with large volume liposuction (> 5 litres).
