LIPOSUCTION 

Liposuction also called lipectomy is the procedure of removal of excess fat from the body for improvement in shape and contours.  Liposuction can be performed under local or general anesthesia depending on amount of fat and patient considerations. This procedure can address more than one area simultaneously.

INDICATIONS 

Liposuction is commonly but not exclusively performed for aesthetic purposes . Enlisted are the most common indications for this procedure addressing different body areas 

 

1. Abdomen : accumulation of excess amount of fat on belly or isolated fat pockets that are resistant to exercise and weight loss
2. Chest:   excess amount of fat on the chest 

Enlarged male breast (gynecomastia)

1. Arms : excess fat accumulation on arms 

2. Double chin : excess fat accumulation on

3. chin 

4. Thigs 

5. Legs 

6. Buttcocks 

7. Back & waist

8. Neck 

LIMITATIONS:

Liposuction is not weight loss surgery and not a substitute for diet and exercise. It helps to address your body shape and contours . In addition it cannot address localized fat pockets with tight skin (cellulite)
COMPLICATIONS: 

All surgeries are associated with some risk. Although liposuction is not associated with any significant complication, following complications can occur.

1. Bleeding

2. Seroma ( collection of fluid )

3. Localized fat pockets 

4. Infection 

5. Toxicity of medicines used in solution (lidocaine toxicity)

6. Anesthesia complications 

7. Change in skin sensation 

8. Loose skin 

FAQs :

What is the time of surgery and recovery?

Time of the surgery varies depending on how many areas are addressed and amount of fat.  Complete recovery usually takes around 4 weeks. Light work routine can be resumed in a couple of days. Belts on abdomen or compression stockings are advised for four weeks. Your surgeon will guide you about compression required, wound care and activity modifications.

How long will the hospital stay ? 

Hospital stay varies depending whether the procedure is performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia. Your surgeon can consider doing a daycare procedure with discharge in the same evening if the amount of fat is small. For procedures under general anesthesia patients usually stay one night in hospital.  

 

What are various techniques of liposuction? 

Liposuction varies in technique depending upon the instrument used for aspiration of fat . The most popular technique is suction assisted lipo. Other techniques include  vibration assisted liposuction ,ultrasound assisted liposuction and VASER assisted liposuction .

What is the success of surgery?

liposuction in carefully selected patients provides excellent aesthetic results and patient satisfaction .

Written by :  Dr. Mehtab Ahmed
Copyrights: Pakistan association of Plastic Surgeons