Liposuction
is a surgical technique to remove fat. It is not an alternative to
weight loss; it is a method for removing fat that does not respond to a
healthy diet and regular exercise. The abdomen, buttocks, thighs,
flanks, hips, knees, calves and upper arms are commonly treated
areas.
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Liposuction
can be performed under local anesthesia, along with intravenous
sedation, or general anesthesia depending on your health and the extent
of the procedure. Normally, during the procedure, a hollow suction
tube, or "cannula," is passed through small skin incisions and
manipulated to break-up unwanted fat. It is then transferred through
the tube by the attached vacuum machine. While fat is removed by
suctioning it through small tunnels, the skin remains connected to the
underlying muscles. This helps preserve the nerves and blood vessels
supplying the skin and also helps to decrease the laxity of the skin.
The surgeon also leaves a thin blanket of fat attached to the skin to
prevent the cannula from getting too close to the skin and causing
excessive rippling or other irregularities.
The extent of the post-operative swelling and bruising is dependent on
whether you tend to bruise or swell easily. The amount you can expect
varies for each individual but past surgeries or injuries should be a
good indication. Keep the treated area elevated, above the level of
your heart. Applying cold compresses, or small ice packs will reduce
swelling and relieve discomfort. Many patients use a water-tight
plastic sandwich bag filled with frozen berries or peas. Regular icing
is the key to relieving swelling and the resulting pain.
You will feel tender and sore for a few days to several weeks after
surgery. Some fluid may drain from your incisions post surgery.
To prevent fluid build-up, a small drainage tube may be inserted
beneath your skin for a few days. Antibiotics to prevent infection may
also be prescribed. To control swelling and to help your skin adjust to
its new contours, you will be fitted with a snug, elastic garment to
wear over the treated area for a few weeks. Your surgeon will likely
request follow-up visits to review your progress.
Recovery is individual and varies from person to person. After liposuction,
however, you will begin to see a noticeable difference in the shape of
your body almost immediately with additional differences occurring
during the following 4 to 6 weeks as the swelling subsides.
Although you may not feel like it, you should try to walk as soon as
possible to reduce swelling and prevent blood clots from forming in
your legs. Strenuous activity should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks.
Although most bruising and swelling will disappear within 3 weeks, some
swelling may remain for 6 months and up to a year.
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