Liposuction is a surgical procedure designed to eliminate excess fat stored beneath the skin. Common areas where this fat tends to accumulate include the upper arms, buttocks, thighs, abdomen, lower back, knees, and neck. In some cases, males may also have fat deposits around the chest area.
Liposuction can be performed individually or in combination with other surgical procedures such as tummy tuck in which case, the body contour start showing immediately
Liposuction is usually very effective at removing fat deposits in small areas using suction. Some improvement in body contour is usually noticeable right after the surgery.
In recent years, advancements in techniques have enhanced the safety, simplicity, and comfort of liposuction, a widely accepted medical procedure. Utilizing a tube and vacuum device for suction, liposuction targets stubborn fat deposits in various areas of the body, including the chin, cheeks, neck, upper arms, above the breasts, abdomen, buttocks, hips, thighs, knees, calves, and ankles. For larger fat volumes or fibrous body regions, ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL) is employed.
Typically, the procedure takes a few hours to complete, and the choice of local, epidural, or general anesthesia depends on individual requirements. Temporary side effects such as bruising, swelling, numbness, soreness, and burning sensations are commonly observed following the procedure.
Liposuction provides a means to achieve desired body contours with reduced discomfort and minimal side effects. In the tumescent technique, saline solution with a local anesthetic is infused into the targeted fat cells before performing liposuction, mitigating potential after-effects like bruising and swelling.
It is imperative that liposuction is performed solely by a medical professional with specialized training in liposuction and skin surgery, along with expertise in managing surgical complications. Liposuction performed by an experienced practitioner in a well-equipped facility is generally considered safe.
Notably, liposuction is contraindicated for individuals with severe heart conditions, blood-clotting disorders (such as thrombophilia, a condition characterized by excessive or easy blood clotting), or during pregnancy.