Liposuction

The liposuction procedure includes the following steps:

Step 1 – Anesthesia
Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. The choices include local anesthesia, intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend the best choice for you.

Step 2 – The incision
Liposuction is performed through small, inconspicuous incisions. First, diluted local anesthesia is infused to reduce bleeding and trauma. Then a thin hollow tube, or cannula, is inserted through the incisions to loosen excess fat using a controlled back and forth motion. The dislodged fat is then suctioned out of the body using a surgical vacuum or syringe attached to the cannula.

During your liposuction recovery, a compression garment or elastic bandages may cover treatment areas once your procedure is completed. These help to control swelling and compress the skin to your new body contours.

In addition, small temporary drains may be placed in existing incisions beneath the skin to remove any excess blood or fluid.

You will be given specific instructions that may include:

• How to care for the surgical site(s).
• Medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the potential for infection
• Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health.

It may take several months for the swelling to fully dissipate. As it does, your new contours and enhanced self-image should continue to develop.

The results of liposuction will be long lasting, provided you maintain a stable weight and general fitness.

Your improved body contour will be apparent when the swelling and fluid retention commonly experienced following liposuction subside. As your body ages, it is natural to lose some firmness, but most of your improvement should be relatively permanent.

It is not possible to improve lax skin tone with liposuction alone. You may need additional lifting procedure. Following your physician’s instructions is key to the success of your surgery.

It’s important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, swelling, abrasion or motion during the time of healing. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself.