| |
Liposuction is a very common, popular procedure.
It is designed for the permanent removal of
fatty tissue. It is an elective procedure that
allows the cosmetic surgeon to remove
undesirable, subcutaneous fat in isolated areas
that do not respond to diet and exercise. These
areas include the face and neck, upper arms,
flanks, abdomen, buttocks, hips, thighs, knees,
calves and ankles. Liposuction is not a
technique for treating obesity. Liposuction is
not a substitute for weight reduction, but a
method for removing localized deposits of fatty
tissue that do not respond to diet or exercise.
If weight gain occurs following liposuction, the
fat will be deposited in areas that have not
been treated. The procedure can be repeated, if
necessary. To maintain the safety of the
procedure, there is a limit on how much can be
done at one time.
A variety of factors can affect the results:
Physical condition, genetic makeup, diet,
exercise, smoking, alcohol intake, and skin
elasticity. Liposuction may be performed as a
primary procedure for body contouring or may be
combined with other surgical techniques such as
a facelift or abdominoplasty to tighten loose
skin and the supporting structures. The best
candidates for liposuction are individuals of
relatively normal weight who have excess fat in
particular body areas.
Suction-assisted lipectomy surgery is performed
by using a hollow metal surgical instrument
known as a cannula that is inserted through
small skin incision(s) and is passed back and
forth through the area of fatty tissue.
Liposuction may be performed under local,
intravenous (twilight) or general anesthesia.
The Tumescent liposuction technique involves the
infiltration of a very dilute anesthetic
solution under the skin into the fatty tissue
before it is removed. This technique can reduce
the discomfort at the time of surgery, as well
as reduce postoperative bruising. Afterward,
compression garments are worn for support, to
control swelling and promote healing. Patients
usually return to work after 3 to 7 days
depending on the surgical procedure performed. |
|