Liposuction*
Liposuction is the most performed aesthetic surgery in the world, it was first described in the 1920s, and its popularity rose in the 1970s.
It is a method of surgery, which allows to better the shape of the body by removing excess fatty tissue/fat deposits from areas that remain unchanged even with diet and exercise. Usual areas of treatment are chin, biceps, breasts, abdomen, sides, hips, buttocks, inner and outer thighs, knee and calf area.
Pre-surgery consultation
The patient’s expectations and possibilities to realise those wishes are established. Medical history of the patient and current usage of medications is discussed. It is advisable to stabilise the patient’s weight before the surgery.
During the examination of the patient, deviations from the ideal contour, asymmetries, cellulite, skin quality and range of excessiveness are assessed. Patient will be photographed for the case history. The amplitude of the surgery and the location of the incisions (and later scars) will be determined.
Surgery
The surgery is usually performed using general anaesthesia and takes about 3-4 hours, depending on the amount of fat removed. During the operation, first the patient’s tissues are saturated with a special solution, containing a medication, which shrinks small blood vessels and relieves pain. Usually, liposuction is performed with 2-6 mm canulae connected to the vacuum device.
Recovery
The patient is released either a few hours or on the morning after the surgery, depending on the volume of the surgery.
Recovery is individual for every patient. Post-surgery pain relief is necessary on the first days, as there is swelling due to tissue trauma. The incisions have been covered with wound closure tape and bandages up to 2 weeks, after which scar care starts. It is necessary to wear compression garments on the area the procedure took place for 4-6 weeks. During the first weeks, avoiding extraneous exercise is advised.
Possible risks
Immediately after the surgery swelling, discomfort, changes in the sensitivity of the nipple, and subdermal haematomas are possible. Often, there is asymmetry between sides or contour irregularities. Sometimes, there is inflammation, accumulation of interstitial fluid in the operated area, skin pigmentation and flaccidity. For large-scale liposuction, excess loss of liquids and blood is a danger.
1 area (e.g. chin), 2 areas (e.g. both arms), 4 areas (e.g. upper and lower abdomen, both sides) etc.
* The examples given in the text are general and may vary in individual patients. For the most accurate information, please contact with doctor.