Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat from specific body parts, such as the abdominal area, thighs, arms, and chin. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and involves making incisions in the target area and inserting a hollow tube called a cannula that removes excess fat.
Liposuction is done to reshape and contour the body by removing localized collections of fat resistant to diet and exercise to improve body shape and proportions.
It is often used to target areas such as the abdomen, thighs, arms, neck, and other areas with undesirable fat deposits. Liposuction is not meant to be an alternative to diet and exercise but, instead, as a way to help enhance the results of a healthy lifestyle for individuals with specific,
Differences Between Gastric Balloon and Liposuction
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes fat from body areas such as the abdomen, arms, thighs, and buttocks. It uses a cannula inserted through small incisions in the skin and suctioning out the fat. It is not a weight loss solution and is often used as a body sculpting procedure.
Gastric balloon insertion is a non-surgical procedure in which a silicone balloon is inserted into the stomach, and temporarily filled with saline is inserted into the stomach through the mouth. The balloon fills up part of the stomach and limits the amount of food consumed.
Types of Liposuctions
- Traditional Liposuction (Suction-Assisted Lipectomy)
Traditional Liposuction (Suction-Assisted Lipectomy) is a surgical procedure used to remove fat deposits from problem areas of the body, such as the stomach, thighs, and buttocks.
A thin tube is inserted through a small incision in the skin, and small amounts of fat are suctioned out of the body. This procedure may be performed alone or in combination with other surgical procedures, such as an abdominoplasty.
- Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction (UAL)
Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL) is a cosmetic procedure used to reduce areas of excess fat. It is most commonly used on the abdomen, buttocks, hips, thighs, and chin. UAL uses an ultrasonic device to break up fat cells before they are suctioned out of the body.
It can also sculpt certain areas, giving a more sculpted appearance. UAL can provide more control as it can target specific areas more accurately.
- Laser-Assisted Liposuction (SmartLipo)
Laser-Assisted Liposuction (SmartLipo) is a minimally invasive procedure that utilizes a high-powered, low-energy laser to liquefy fat cells before their removal from the body.
Smart Lipo sculpts the body, creating sharper and finer contours than traditional liposuction. The melted fat is drained from the body, and the laser energy promotes skin tightening. The procedure is often used on the arms, thighs, neck, and abdomen.
- Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL)
Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL) uses a device that vibrates at a high frequency to break down fat cells and help make the liposuction process faster and easier on the patient.
The vibrations are generated by a handheld, wand-like device inserted into the area of the body being treated. PAL has become a popular treatment option as it is less invasive than traditional liposuction and can provide more consistent results than manual liposuction.
- External Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction (EUAL)
External Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction (EUAL) is a non-invasive treatment that utilizes ultrasound technology to break down fatty tissue and remove it from the body. It
is usually performed for contouring purposes, and its advantage is that it does not require general anesthesia or an incision. The technique removes fat deposits from the arms, thighs, neck, chest, abdomen, and back. This procedure uses a high-frequency ultrasound device to remove fat, meaning it is minimally invasive and requires a shorter recovery time than traditional liposuction techniques.
During the procedure, a handheld applicator delivers high-intensity ultrasound energy that breaks down fat cells in the area being treated. The broken-down fat tissue is then suctioned away with an aspiration cannula. The affected area is then measured and marked, and re-evaluated to ensure all fat cells are removed.
EUAL is a popular choice for many people who want to sculpt and contour their bodies without going under the knife.
- Tumescent Liposuction
Tumescent liposuction is a minimally invasive technique that removes stubborn pockets of excess fat. It involves injecting a sizeable liquid solution containing local anesthetics and other medication into the targeted area. The fluid “tumescence” swells the fat cells, making them soft and easy to suction.
It helps reduce the amount of bleeding, bruising, and pain associated with traditional liposuction techniques. Tumescent liposuction is performed in an outpatient setting.
- High-Definition (or 6-Pack Core Liposuction)
High-Definition (or 6-Pack Core Liposuction) is a specialized form of liposuction that utilizes the latest cutting-edge technology to contour and sculpt excess fat around the abdomen to create a more aesthetically appealing and toned midsection.
It can also be used to improve the appearance of any body area. This procedure is usually done with local anesthesia, allowing the patient to remain awake during treatment. The areas to be treated are identified and marked with a marker prior.
Advantages of Liposuction
1. Can Help with Weight Loss: Although liposuction will not work as a substitute for a healthy diet and exercise, it can help people to lose stubborn areas of extra fat.
2. May Improve Health: Removing excess fat could help a person improve their health. People with certain conditions caused by excess fat, such as type 2 diabetes, may benefit from the procedure.
3. Could Help you Feel Better about your Appearance: Liposuction can help a person boost confidence.
Disadvantages of Liposuction
1. Risk of Complications: Liposuction is a surgical procedure and carries the risks of any other surgical procedure, including bleeding, infection, nerve or organ damage, and scarring.
2. Cost: Liposuction is an expensive and involved procedure. Liposuction costs depend on the area being treated and the type of anesthesia used.
3. Need for Follow-up Treatments: Liposuction is not a one-time procedure and requires multiple treatments
Effects and Risks of Liposuction
The effects of liposuction on women can vary depending on the individual.
Generally, potential positives of liposuction may include improved body contour and shape, the removal of excess fat from troublesome areas, and the potential for improved functioning of some muscles due to increased mobility.
Short-term risks of the procedure may include swelling, bruising, and minor discomfort.
Other Risks of Liposuction
1. Infections: Liposuction is a surgical procedure that comes with risks of infections. The site where the fat is removed can become infected if the surgical procedures are not correctly followed.
2. Excessive bleeding: Excessive bleeding can occur during liposuction and could lead to shock and loss of vital fluids.
3. Nerve damage, swelling, and bruising: Liposuction is an invasive procedure and can sometimes result in nerve damage, swelling, and bruising
4. Swelling and bruising: Swelling and bruising are common side effects of liposuction. This can last several weeks after the procedure and be quite uncomfortable. Swelling can also disrupt the procedure results, as the underlying fat layer can take several weeks to smooth out.
5. Numbness: Numbness is another common side effect of liposuction. This can occur due to nerve damage sustained during the procedure, although it should eventually disappear.
6. Fluid Imbalance: Too much fluid can be removed during the procedure, leading to dehydration or low blood pressure.
7. Skin Irregularities: Changes in skin texture, dimpling, lumpiness, and asymmetry may occur. Irregular contouring due to uneven removal of fat.
Also, Hematoma (collection of blood outside the blood vessels), Seroma (collection of fluid under the skin) – Unfavorable scarring – Fat embolism (clotting or blocks in the bloodstream) are possible effects.
How To Prepare for Liposuction
- Research your desired results and ensure you understand what liposuction can and cannot do for your body.
- Discuss your options and expectations during a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon.
- Prepare yourself by eating healthy and exercising leading up to the procedure.
- Get clearance from your physician before you proceed with liposuction.
- Ask your doctor about the exact procedure so you can prepare for the recovery.
What To Expect During Liposuction
When you arrive at the clinic, you will be taken to a pre-operative suite where you will receive instructions and pre-operative instructions and have a chance to ask any questions.
An anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist will provide an anesthetic to keep you comfortable during surgery.
A doctor or nurse practitioner will insert small, thin tubes (called cannulas) through the skin to suction out fat cells. The procedure usually takes one to three hours, depending on the area the fat is being removed from.
What To Expect After Liposuction
After liposuction, you may have soreness, swelling, bruising, and numbness for up to two weeks. A compression bandage or garment may need to be worn for several weeks to help reduce swelling and enhance the contours of your body. You may
also experience temporary muscular weakness and sensation changes. Your doctor may recommend mild pain medication and advise you regarding any activity restrictions.
Complete healing generally takes several weeks, but you should be able to return to your regular activities within a few days.
