Liposuction Surgery

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Liposuction Surgery

Fat deposits which cannot be removed by diet or exercise usually occur in areas such as the chin, chest, stomach, sides, back and thighs. Liposuction is a fat removal procedure that aims to eradicate excessive stubborn fat from these hard to shift areas. Liposuction should be thought of as a sculpting procedure that can change the contours of your body or face.

What does Liposuction Surgery Involve?
Liposuction is a procedure in which localised deposits of fat are removed to recontour one or more areas of the body. Through a tiny incision, a narrow tube (cannula) is inserted and used to vacuum the fat layer that lies deep beneath the skin. The cannula is pushed then pulled through the fat layer, breaking up the fat cells and suctioning them out by a vacuum pump or a large syringe.

The incision sites will be carefully chosen so that scarring is as inconspicuous as possible. Naturally fluid is lost along with the fat. To prevent shock, patients are carefully monitored and given intravenous fluids during and immediately after liposuction surgery.

How long does liposuction take?
The procedure will from one hour to 1.5 hours to complete depending on the extent of the procedure. Many patients are able to go home on the day of the surgery but some remain in the hospital for one or two days.

What can I expect from liposuction?
Your expectations need to be realistic. You will probably be very pleased with the results. Your body shape will be noticeably different quite soon after surgery and you will generally feel more at ease with your body.
Recovery after a Liposuction Procedure
What will happen in the recovery period?
Bruising and swelling can be present for 2-4 weeks dependent upon the quantity of fat that is removed and the patient’s own healing rate. Any discomfort or pain can be relieved by painkillers and gentle walking. A supportive elastic will be worn day and night for 3 weeks and after that for a further 3 weeks during the day. Scars will be small and will fade in time, and you will have follow-up visits in the months after surgery to check on your progress.

What is the recovery time from the surgery?
Recovery time is brief, with many liposuction patients returning to work in a few days, and most back to full exercise in 12-14 days. Again this will depend on each individual patient. You can resume gentle exercise after two weeks and full exercise after one month.

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