Liposuction - Weight Loss Surgery

Introduction to Liposuction

Liposuction (also called lipoplasty, liposculpture) is a surgical procedure which suctions fat from your body. There are various types or methods of liposuction: dry method (now discontinued), wet method (also discontinued), superwet method, tumescent method and ultrasound-assisted liposuction. Of these, tumescent lipoplasty is becoming the standard technique.

What Happens During Liposuction

A medical fluid is pumped into the area from where fat is to be removed. This softens the fat cells, provides additional anesthesia and acts as an anti-bacterial agent.
The plastic surgeon then introduces a probe (cannula) connected to a vacuum pump into the area and moves it around to loosen and then remove the fat.

Recovery After Lipoplasty

Due to the internal movements which are required to loosen the fat, the body remains bruised and swollen for about a fortnight after the operation, and patients are advised to rest and to wear a tight corset until they recover.

No Quick Fix for Overweight or Obesity

At present, no more than about 4-10 pounds of fat tissue can safely be removed in any one operation, so a patient with a lot of excess fat, will need several lipoplasty operations. What's more, liposuction does not cure cellulite: it simply removes fat-cells.

Health Risks

Infection, blood poisoning and complications from the anaesthetic. Possible complications from removing too much fat. These can be serious. Possible internal damage from the tubes. Possible skin numbness resulting from damage to nerve endings. Possible anemia resulting from bleeding and bruising. Possible lumpy appearance if fat is not removed evenly.
Possible puffiness of the skin if fluid isn't drained properly.

Cost of Liposuction

This depends on the surgeon, the exact nature of the operation and the degree of post-operative care. Expect to pay anything between $2,000 and $10,000.

Verdict

Liposuction is not a quick-fix solution to a weight problem. It is a serious procedure and should not be considered without close consultation with your doctor and a proper examination of all other options. Even if you decide to proceed, please exercise the greatest possible care in your choice of surgeon. Furthermore, unless it is combined with a sensible program of dietary modification and exercise, any benefits incurred will be short-term.

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