Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure which helps to reduce excess fat from certain areas of the body like abdomen, hips, thigh, buttocks, etc, thus helping to reshape the body.
Since the amount of fat that can be removed is limited, it cannot be considered as an alternative to weight loss; but at the same time, offers a way to improve body appearance and boost self confidence, when all attempts to reduce fat through diet and exercise have failed.
It can also be used to treat Gynecomastia, male breast enlargement.
PROCEDURE
Under local or general anaesthesia, the liposuction procedure is performed using a suction device attached to a small, stainless steel instrument called a cannula. Through small incisions, the cannula is inserted into fatty areas between skin and muscle where it removes excess fat using a suction pump.
There are various techniques like Tumescent Liposuction, Ultrasound or laser assisted Liposuction, etc; the ultimate goal being the same.
DURATION
The duration of procedure would vary depending on the area and the amount of fat being removed. It can be 30 minutes to 2 hrs or even longer in some cases. It is an outpatient procedure but some of you might require 1-2 day hospitalization.
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RECOVERY
A support garment would be needed post surgery for 1-2 months. Swelling of the tissues at the site of operation may continue for 4-8 weeks. There could be mild burning sensation at the site for upto one month. Routine work can be resumed within a week. It may take 1-3 months for complete effect to become visible.
The fat cells are removed permanently, but post liposuction, you can still regain weight, fat will then accumulate in some other areas of the body. So proper diet and exercise regime has to be followed.
RISKS
Skin discoloration/irregularity, infection, damage to superficial nerves, etc may occur in few patients. Rarely, perforation of an internal organ, migration of blood clot/fat globules to brain/lungs/heart may occur. But the risk is minimized if the procedure is carried out by qualified and experienced Cosmetic surgeon.