Liposuction: What it is, its causes, types, results, and risks
We've all been hearing about liposuction lately. We all have neighbors or relatives who have undergone or are considering it, and we've seen its amazing weight-loss results. In this article, we'll learn more about liposuction, its types, complications, and who is a suitable candidate.
What is Liposuction?
Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that involves removing fat from various parts of the body, both to eliminate it and to contour these areas.
Patients undergo this procedure after failing to remove fat through diet and exercise. It's used on areas such as the abdomen, hips, thighs, chest, back, calves, ankles, buttocks, arms, and neck.
This procedure is usually performed by a plastic surgeon or dermatologist, but other plastic surgeons can also perform it, including for facelifts, breast reductions, and tummy tucks.
A surgical marker is used to identify the areas to be treated, and different types of liposuction cannulas are used depending on the area and the type of liposuction being performed.
Why is Liposuction Considered? Patients undergo this procedure to improve their body shape and contours, removing excess fat from specific areas such as the abdomen, hips, thighs, chest, and back, and tightening sagging skin in these areas, after trying strict diets and exercise regimens without success.
Therefore, they improve the aesthetic aspect of their bodies and become more confident in their lives.
What are the types of liposuction?
There are several techniques used in liposuction, and the surgeon will choose the best technique based on the treatment goals and the area being treated. These include:
Tumor liposuction: This is the most common method. The surgeon injects a sterile solution into the area from which fat is to be removed, making it easier to suction out the fat with minimal blood loss and pain.
Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL): This uses sound wave energy under the skin to liquefy fat.
Laser-assisted liposuction (LAL): This technique uses a high-intensity laser light to break down fat for removal, which is then extracted via a cannula. Power-assisted liposuction (PAL): Vibration allows for the removal of stubborn fat more easily and quickly. The surgeon may choose this technique if large amounts of fat need to be removed or if the patient has undergone previous liposuction.
Who are the ideal candidates for liposuction?
A patient may be a candidate for liposuction if they have a lot of fat in specific areas but otherwise maintain a stable weight. However, there are some characteristics the patient should possess:
- Good overall health
- Good skin elasticity
- Not overweight or obese
- Not smoking
- Being within the ideal weight range
What are the risks of liposuction?
Liposuction is a serious surgical procedure with several risks that we can help minimize. These include:
Organ injury
Some nerve damage
Hematoma
Blood clots
Some heart and kidney problems
Death if the procedure is not performed by a specially trained and board-certified plastic surgeon.
What are the results of liposuction?
Liposuction permanently removes fat cells from the targeted areas and improves the aesthetic appearance of the body. However, fat will remain stored in different parts of the body, and new fat may appear deeper under the skin. This can be dangerous if it is located around the liver or heart.
Finally, after we've talked about this wonderful procedure and its promising results, do you think you would recommend it?