What is liposuction?

Liposuction is a surgical procedure involving the permanent removal of subcutaneous adipose tissue, or fat, using a suction cannula. This technique can be performed on specific body areas, such as the abdomen, hips, thighs, and buttocks, to better define their contours. However, liposuction is not a substitute for diet and exercise.

 

Before liposuction surgery

Before liposuction, discontinue any anticoagulant treatment at least two weeks prior. If undergoing general anesthesia, the procedure will likely be in the morning, requiring you to fast from midnight the previous day. With local anesthesia, fasting will also be necessary. You'll likely be asked to abstain from smoking for several months before and after the procedure. Your surgeon will also prescribe an antibiotic to take about an hour before or immediately after liposuction.

 

In the operating room, a sterilizing liquid is applied to the treatment area, and anesthesia is administered either orally (anesthetic gas) or by injection. Once anesthesia takes effect, the surgeon makes a small incision for cannula insertion to fragment and aspirate the fat. Intravenous fluids will be administered to compensate for fluid loss.

 

Liposuction Techniques

Cannula aspiration

Cannula aspiration uses a straw-like instrument to aspirate fat. A small cannula is inserted through a tiny incision near the treatment area. The surgeon moves the cannula back and forth through the fat layer, breaking up and extracting the cells via the connected aspiration device.

 

Ultrasound-assisted liposuction

Ultrasound-assisted liposuction employs a cannula that transmits ultrasound waves, effectively "exploding" the fat cells. It takes longer than traditional liposuction but minimizes swelling and hematomas due to reduced blood loss.

 

Power-assisted liposuction

Similar to traditional liposuction, power-assisted liposuction uses a cannula with automated movement, replacing the surgeon's manual movements.

 

Dual cannula

This technique uses special "paired" cannulas with automated movement. A thinner cannula slides inside an outer cannula, simplifying the procedure and preventing heat buildup that could cause friction burns.

 

Water-assisted liposuction

A fine jet of water dissolves the fat, which is then removed by a special cannula. Water is continuously sprayed and aspirated almost instantly.

 

Laser-assisted liposuction

Laser-assisted liposuction uses a laser to melt the fat. A fiber is inserted under the skin to direct the laser. Some surgeons believe this reduces hematomas and bleeding due to simultaneous tissue healing.

 

Radiofrequency-assisted liposuction

Radiofrequency heats the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, reducing fat and causing dermal contraction. The risk of complications is lower than with traditional liposuction.

 

After liposuction surgery

Post-liposuction, incision management varies; some surgeons leave them open for drainage, others partially suture them, and some wait 1-2 days before suturing. Dressings are changed frequently (1-3 days) while drainage occurs. Patients generally resume normal activities within 2-14 days, but compression garments are worn for 2-4 weeks.

 

Minor pain, controlled by prescribed medication, may last 2-3 weeks. Bruising resolves within a few days to two weeks, while swelling lasts about a month. Numbness or tingling may persist for several weeks.

 

How much fat can be removed during liposuction?

The amount of fat safely removed per session is limited to avoid complications like tissue irregularities. The more fat removed, the higher the risk. Liposuction can be performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the amount of fat to be removed and the patient's health. With local anesthesia, patients may feel a scraping sensation; with general anesthesia, there is no discomfort.

 

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