liposuction

For some, diet and exercise can never seem to rid them of specific areas of fat on their bodies. For these individuals, liposuction offers an attractive option. This procedure can be used on areas, such as the abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, knees, upper arms, chin, cheeks or neck, with impressive results. Because liposuction only requires a small incision into which a narrow tube for suction is placed, it also offers patients much faster recovery times than other plastic surgery procedures. Liposuction is not ideal for everyone. It works best for those who have worked to reduce their weight through diet, exercise, and lifestyle change, and who still have fatty areas. It is not ideal if you are overweight or obese.

What to Expect
The procedure involves inserting the narrow tube (cannula) into fatty deposits, breaking up fat cells, and suctioning them out using a vacuum pump or syringe. The procedure can be performed on several areas on your body during a single session. After surgery, you will likely wear a snug elastic garment over the treated area to control swelling. General discomfort will last approximately a week, but you can return to work within a few days. Most people begin walking and moving normally the next day and return to strenuous activity within a few weeks. Stitches in the incisions will be removed or will dissolve on their own.

Your body will be noticeably different very soon after surgery and the changes will be even more apparent in four to six weeks when swelling subsides. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help keep the fat from accumulating in the area again. Complications from liposuction may include infection, fluid accumulation, and possibly blood clots. Fluid loss during the procedure and after is closely monitored.

Learn more about Liposuction from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.