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Liposuction

This surgery may be done to improve body shape by removing exercise-resistant fat deposits with a tube and vacuum device. It may be performed using the tumescent technique, where targeted areas are infused with saline (salt water) containing solution and a local anesthetic before liposuction to decrease post-operative bruising, swelling and discomfort. Common areas for liposuction include chin, cheeks, neck, upper arms, abdomen, buttocks, hips, thighs and knees. For fibrous spotty areas or scared areas ultrasound/assisted lipoplasty (UAL) may be performed. Other methods are frequently described and in the news but until now the basic premise of fat removal in a random, swiss cheese like fashion is unchanged.

It is important to remember that liposuction is intended to change contour and shape and not as a weight reduction method. The removal of fat includes the removal of fat cells, which do not return. That means that if the patient maintains his or her weight the contour change will also remain. It is a misconception that the weight goes to other areas. That may be the result of weight gain.

Anesthesia and Surgery Facility

Smaller areas of liposuction may be performed under local anesthesia with IV sedation but multiple larger areas are more often performed under general anesthesia.

Liposuction is more commonly performed on an outpatient basis. Extensive procedures may require a 23 hour inpatient stay. Operative time may vary depending upon the areas treated ranging from 1-2½ hours. The UAL approach may be 20-40% longer than traditional liposuction.

Side Effects

There is expected temporary bruising, swelling, numbness, soreness and at times a burning sensation. Although there is a change in contour seen at the first visit the final shape and reduction is not seen for several months. There may be differences between sides but this should be minimal. Cellulite may be more visible. UAL: a slightly larger incision is made for the tube/cannula.

Risks

These include the possibility of asymmetry, rippling or skin laxity, pigmentation changes, or skin injury. There may be fluid retention in rare cases, excessive fluid loss leading to shock. With the UAL technique, thermal burn injury caused by the heat from the ultrasound device is also a remote risk.

Recovery

Return to work varies with the sites treated, the extensiveness of the procedure and the type of work. However, most individuals are back in 1 week. Some strenuous activity may be limited for 2-4 weeks. Full recovery from swelling and bruising may take in the range of 1-6 months.

Duration of Results

Permanent with a balance of a sensible diet and exercise program.