Liposuction Done the Right Way

Also known as lipoplasty, the fat modeling technique liposuction is one of the more popular and frequently performed cosmetic surgery procedures worldwide. In fact, the procedure is ranked inside the top five most performed cosmetic surgeries in the United States according to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery or ASAPS.

Why is Liposuction Popular?

The popularity of liposuction can be attributed to two factors that are innate in us humans – the desire to look younger and the craving to lose weight and achieve a slimmer body figure. Naturally we want to be as young as we could. That explains the plethora of quest for the proverbial fountain of youth. Likewise, losing weight has become a primary concern these days. With obesity figures increasing at an alarming rate because of fast food chains, food carts and the typical modern American lifestyle, the struggle to maintain a decent body figure has become harder by the day.

How Does Liposuction Work?

Liposuction basically works as a fat modeling technique – which is contrary to the common belief that it’s a weight loss regimen. It is surgical operation that removes fat from various parts of the body en route to create a slimmer figure. However it should be noted that the fat removal process is only a technique that will enhance the body figure. It’s not done to lessen figures shown in the weighing scales.

Some of the body areas in which liposuction can be applied include the abdomen, thighs, buttocks and the neck and back of the neck.

Too Much Liposuction Isn’t Safe

Too much of anything is bad and there is no exception even when we are talking about fat excess and unwanted fat. Despite the fact that it’s “excess” and “unwanted,” removing too much of it will prove costly for one’s health.

There have been several reports of successfully removing large amounts of fat (as much as 50 pounds) off a liposuction procedure but that does not mean it’s safe. One thing is for sure though, that is not recommended.

What are the Different Types of Anesthesia Needed?

The type of anesthesia that shall be used and administered during a liposuction procedure is determined by what type of liposuction will be performed. Needless to say, there are a number of liposuction techniques out in today’s cosmetic surgery market and there are three basic types of anesthesia available in the market – local, regional and general anesthesia.

Local anesthesia is the type of anesthesia that is applied to a specific location requiring minor surgery. Most of the time, local anesthesia is needed for noninvasive surgeries.

Regional anesthesia on the other hand, is anesthesia that is injected near the cluster of nerves while general anesthesia is the type that makes a person feel unconscious and as if he has no awareness or sensation.

Who is a Good Candidate for Liposuction?

Not everyone is a good candidate for liposuction and that is something that should be pointed out clearly prior to your planned liposuction. It is also important to note that liposuction should not be treated as an alternative to regular exercise, proper diet and natural weight losing strategies. Nevertheless being a good candidate for liposuction isn’t that difficult.

First and foremost is that you need to be at the right age. The right age is usually pegged at 18 years old but it is certainly better to have your liposuction during the time when you needed it most –around your early and mid 30s, for example.

Another thing that should be considered is your current health status. Will you be able to withstand the operation?

Additionally, the allergies and the minor conditions you have should also be given due importance and should be regarded.

The Approaches to Liposuction

There are various approaches to liposuction and each differs from one another. Nonetheless, there are four steps in a basic liposuction approach.

1) Determine and remove the right amount of fat

2) Minimize disturbance of tissues and blood vessels

3) Maintain the patient’s fluid balance

4) Cause least discomfort to the patient

Different Types of Liposuction Techniques

Several types of liposuction have been introduced over the years. Some of the most common types include the SAL or the suction assisted liposuction, the UAL or the ultrasound assisted liposuction and the PAL or the power assisted liposuction.

Side Effects and Possible Complications

Just like any other medical surgery, there are a couple of side effects and possible complications associated with liposuction procedures. Some of which are detailed below;

• Bruising

Bruising is a possible side effect especially if you’ve undergone an invasive liposuction treatment. Bruises can be painful but are bound to fade a few weeks after the liposuction.

• Swelling

Swelling around the body area where liposuction is applied is another possible complication. Swelling may nevertheless subside a few days after the operation.

• Scarring

After a successful liposuction, you may notice scars in the body area where the procedure is applied. These scars may either be permanent or temporary.

• Numbness

Numbness is often a result of the anesthesia injected into the patient’s body. Expect to feel a numb sensation for a couple of hours after your liposuction.

• Weight Gain

Slight weight gain is another possible complication of a liposuction procedure. Post-operative weight gain is common and should not be a cause of concern.

Liposuction is certainly a genuine way of fighting off the effects of aging and maintaining a slimmer and healthier body figure. However it is still necessary to examine and reexamine the pros and cons of liposuction in order to arrive at a more informed decision – liposuction done the right way is, without a doubt, truly safe and effective.

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