Liposuction is a surgical procedure aimed at removing unwanted fat from different areas of the body using a suction cannula connected to a vacuum suction machine.

Am I Eligible For Liposuction?

Liposuction is intended for contouring the body by eliminating stubborn fat deposits, rather than as a primary method for weight loss. If you have maintained a healthy balanced diet and regular exercise regimen without successfully reducing excess fat in specific areas of your body, you may be a candidate for liposuction.

Your suitability for liposuction also hinges on your Body Mass Index (BMI), calculated by dividing your body weight in kilograms by the square of your height in meters. An ideal BMI falls between 20-25.

– If your BMI is within 3-4 points of the ideal range, you may qualify for lipo-contouring, focusing on enhancing aesthetic shape by strategically removing small amounts of fat from areas like the abdomen, hips, waistline, and thighs.

  – If your BMI is more than 3-4 points from the ideal but less than 35, after careful assessment and discussion with a qualified Aesthetic Surgeon, you might still be considered for lipo-reduction. This involves removing larger volumes of fat from 2-3 specific areas to improve contours and potentially reduce stress on weight-bearing joints like knees, hips, and ankles. Lipo-reduction is limited to 8-10% of total body weight at a time, with further reduction possible after a minimum of 3 months of regular exercise and dieting if deemed necessary and appropriate.

– If your BMI exceeds 35, you may be better suited for bariatric or metabolic surgery. It’s important to note that liposuction does not replace proper diet and regular exercise, but rather enhances their effects to further improve body shape.

General Procedure Information:

Liposuction is a surgical procedure with tiny incisions typically hidden in natural skin folds. It requires a range of routine tests such as blood tests, x-rays, sonography, and ECG before proceeding. Hospital admission is necessary, and the procedure may be performed on a day-care basis or require an overnight stay, depending on the plan and anesthesia chosen (general, spinal, spinal with epidural, or local with sedation).

A saline solution containing medication to reduce bleeding is first injected into the targeted area, followed by the insertion of a suction cannula connected to a suction machine to remove excess fat. Incisions are either stitched or left unsutured, and patients are advised to wear a customized elastic compression garment continuously for 4-6 weeks post-surgery to manage swelling and encourage skin adaptation to the new contours.

Recovery and Expected Outcomes:

Patients can expect some discomfort and swelling in the operated areas, which typically resolves within 10-14 days. Full results, including reduced swelling and improved tissue suppleness, become noticeable after about 3 months. Incorporating gym workouts and muscle-toning exercises can further enhance results.

Potential Complications and Remedies:

Common post-operative issues such as bruising, swelling, and temporary firmness in the treated area usually subside with time. Less common complications include fluid accumulation (seroma), blood clots (hematoma), and irregular skin contours, which may require additional treatment or correction.

Liposuction is generally safe when performed within established safety limits. It’s crucial to consult with a qualified Aesthetic Surgeon to determine if the procedure is suitable for you.