What is liposuction Liposuction is a surgical procedure that breaks down and removes the subcutaneous fat layer from various parts of the body that are notoriously and stubbornly resistant to diet and exercise. Who are the ideal candidate for the liposuction Women and men who have isolated deposits of stubborn subcutaneous fat in certain areas of the body are generally good candidates for liposuction. Optimal results are achieved when the skin has good elasticity. When the skin lacks elasticity an additional skin-tightening procedure may be necessary to produce the desired result. Is liposuction a weight loss procedure Liposuction is not a weight loss treatment. Instead it is a fat reduction procedure. The amount of fat that can be removed in an area during a single procedure will vary depending on a variety of factors including the surgeons assessment of the patients health and his or her aesthetic goals. How is the liposuction performed During the liposuction procedure fat is removed by inserting a small cannula into one or more tiny incisions near the treatment area. The incisions are usually less than half a centimetre and placed in natural skin folds making them less visible. During liposuction the area to be treated will be instilled with a tumescent solution that will reduce bleeding during the procedure and reduce pain bruising and swelling after the procedure. After injecting this fluid into the target area the cannula is inserted and the fat removed. What to expect during the recovery after liposuction Due to swelling and bruising after the surgery you may not fit into the clothes that you would normally wear. To promote proper healing you will need to wear a special garment over the treated areas for four to six weeks. Swelling and bruising will usually subside in a few weeks, at which point you will be able to wear your regular clothes again. Your improved body contour will become apparent 2-6 months after the procedure. Most patients can go back to work within 3-5 days. Liposuction is not a replacement for diet and exercise and is not considered a way to lose weight rather for body contouring. Liposuction is permanent unless you fluctuate in weight or become pregnant.
