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Liposuction
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What is liposuction? Liposuction is a procedure in which fat is removed from a specific area of the body using suction. Liposuction can take out excess fat that is not easily removed by exercise and diet. Liposuction can shape areas of your body, but it is not a substitute for weight loss. It may be performed on nearly any area of the body. People who have the best results from this procedure are near or at their ideal weight. There are a few things to consider before deciding to have the procedure. If skin dimpling exists before the procedure, it will likely exist after as well. There is a chance the skin will look rippled. The skin may sag permanently if it is unable to shrink to the new shape. How is it done? Most liposuction surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis. Some procedures may require a brief hospital stay and general anesthesia. Newer liposuction techniques involve injecting the area to be suctioned with a special fluid/anesthesia combination prior to liposuction. This is called tumescent liposuction. The fluid minimizes the amount of blood loss and pain. Ultrasonic assisted liposuction is a two-step technique that uses the energy from sound waves to liquefy fat deposits before they are suctioned. A small heated probe is inserted. This causes the fat cells to rupture, releasing their oily contents. The oily contents are then suctioned out. Advantages to this method include the ability to remove fat in difficult areas such as the upper abdomen, the back, and the male chest. Disadvantages include the possibility of more pain, swelling, skin burns, and other complications. What happens after the procedure? Recovery from liposuction can be uncomfortable. Most people are back to work within 3 to 10 days depending on the extent of the surgery. Pain medicines and special compression garments can provide relief. Some swelling may remain for several months. The new body contour usually begins to emerge in the first couple of weeks. The final evaluation of the body contour will be made 6 months after surgery. What should I do before having the procedure? It is important that you have realistic expectations and clearly understand what the procedure can do for you. There are risks and complications that can occur with any procedure. Before agreeing to a procedure, find out as much as possible about the best procedure for you, the risks involved, and the healthcare provider you may be considering. Always select a board certified plastic surgeon with training and experience in the procedure you want done. Health insurance does not usually cover cosmetic surgery such as liposuction. Call your health plan to find out about your benefits.  Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to
change as new health information becomes available. The
information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a
replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or
treatment by a healthcare professional.
HIA File SRG5008F.HTM Release 9.0/2006. Copyright © 2006 McKesson Corporation and/or one of its subdiaries. All Rights Reserved.
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