Liposuction

Liposuction is a surgical procedure aimed at removing excess fat deposits from specific areas of the body to improve contours and body shape.

Standard liposuction, also known as suction-assisted liposuction (SAL), is a traditional liposuction technique that has been widely used for many years. The procedure involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: The surgeon administers either general anesthesia (where you are unconscious) or local anesthesia with sedation to ensure a painless procedure.

2. Incision placement: small incisions are made near the treatment area, usually less than half an inch long. The exact number and location of incisions will depend on the specific needs of the patient and the areas to be treated.

3. Tumescent Technique: A tumescent solution is injected into the treatment area prior to fat removal. The solution consists of a saline solution mixed with a local anesthetic (lidocaine) and epinephrine. This numbs the area, minimizes bleeding, and facilitates fat removal.

4. Liposuction: The surgeon inserts a thin, hollow tube called a cannula through the incisions. The cannula is connected to a suction device, which the surgeon moves back and forth in the fatty tissue to break up and suction out the excess fat deposits.

5. Contouring: during liposuction, the surgeon carefully shapes and contours the treated area to achieve the desired shape and esthetic result. In this step, the fat is strategically removed to create a smoother, more even body contour.

6. Closure of the incision: after liposuction, incisions are closed with absorbable sutures or left open for drainage, depending on the surgeon's preference and the individual case.

Vaser liposuction

also known as VASERlipo, is an advanced liposuction technique that uses ultrasound energy to break up and remove fat cells. The Vaser liposuction technique involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: Similar to standard liposuction, Vaser liposuction is performed under either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation.

2. Tumescent technique: similar to standard liposuction, a tumescent solution is injected into the treatment area to numb the area, minimize bleeding and facilitate fat removal.

3. Application of ultrasound energy: after the tumescent solution is administered, a Vaser probe is inserted through small incisions in the fatty tissue to be treated. The probe emits ultrasound energy that targets and breaks down fat cells while sparing surrounding tissues such as nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue.

4. Liposuction: After the application of ultrasound energy, a cannula is inserted through incisions to suction out the emulsified fat cells. The application of ultrasonic energy prior to fat removal helps to loosen and liquefy the fat, making it easier to remove and potentially causing less injury to the surrounding tissue.

5. Contouring: as with traditional liposuction, the surgeon will sculpt and contour the treated area to achieve the desired esthetic result.

6. Incision closure: incisions are usually closed with absorbable sutures or left open for drainage, depending on the surgeon's preference and on a case-by-case basis.

Vaser liposuction is often preferred because it can be targeted to specific areas and may provide more precise and smoother contouring results. It may also offer shorter downtime and recovery compared to traditional liposuction. However, the decision between traditional liposuction and Vaser liposuction depends on the individual needs of the patient, the areas to be treated, and the experience and recommendation of the surgeon. It is important to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine the most appropriate technique to achieve the desired results.

Pre and Post Operation for Liposuction

Before undergoing liposuction,

candidates should follow certain preoperative steps:

1. Consultation: schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon who specializes in liposuction. Discuss with him or her your goals, expectations and any concerns. The surgeon will evaluate your medical history, perform a physical examination and determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.

2. Health assessment: you will undergo a thorough medical examination to ensure you are in good health. This examination may include blood tests, imaging, and other diagnostic tests requested by your surgeon.

3. Quit smoking: If you are a smoker, it is advisable to quit smoking well in advance of your surgery. Smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications.

4. Review medications and supplements: Inform your surgeon of any medications, supplements or herbal remedies you are currently taking. Some medications and supplements may increase the risk of bleeding or interfere with anesthesia, so your surgeon may advise you to stop them before your procedure.

5. Avoid blood thinners: certain medications and substances can thin the blood and increase the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery. Follow your surgeon's instructions for avoiding blood thinners such as aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and herbal preparations that may have similar effects.

6. Fasting: Your surgeon will give you specific instructions about fasting before your procedure. Usually, you will not need to eat or drink anything for a certain amount of time before the procedure.

After liposuction,

there are important post-operative guidelines to ensure proper healing and optimal results:

1. Compression garments: wear compression garments as directed by your surgeon. These garments help reduce swelling, promote healing and support the newly sculpted areas.

2. Follow-up appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon. At these appointments, your surgeon can monitor your progress, remove any sutures or drains, and address any concerns or complications.

3. Pain management: adhere to the pain medications prescribed by your surgeon to relieve discomfort and pain during the initial recovery period.

4. Rest and recovery: plan adequate recovery time and limit physical activities as directed by your surgeon. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that may stress the treated areas for several weeks.

5. Healthy lifestyle: Be sure to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity once approved by your surgeon. This will help maintain your outcome and overall well-being.

6. Follow wound care instructions: carefully follow your surgeon's instructions for wound care, including keeping incisions clean and dry to minimize the risk of infection.

7. Support and comfort: seek emotional support from friends, family, or support groups during recovery. It can be a time of physical and emotional adjustment and having a support system can be beneficial.

Be sure to follow your surgeon's instructions for pre-and post-operative care to promote healing, minimize complications, and achieve the best possible outcome from your liposuction.