What is Liposuction?
Liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to remove excess fat deposits from specific areas of the body, helping to contour and reshape those areas. It’s commonly performed on areas such as the abdomen, thighs, hips, buttocks, arms, chin, and neck.
During liposuction, a thin tube called a cannula is inserted through small incisions in the
skin. The cannula is connected to a vacuum device or syringe, which suctions out the
targeted fat deposits. The surgeon moves the cannula back and forth beneath the skin to
break up the fat cells before suctioning them out.
There are several different techniques and approaches to liposuction, including:
1. Traditional Liposuction: This involves using a cannula to manually remove fat
cells through suction.
2. Tumescent Liposuction: This technique involves injecting a solution containing
saline, local anaesthetic, and epinephrine into the targeted area before
suctioning out the fat. The solution helps to numb the area, reduce bleeding, and
facilitate fat removal.
3. Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction (UAL): In UAL, ultrasonic energy is used to liquefy fat cells before suctioning them out. This technique may be particularly useful for areas with dense fat deposits or fibrous tissue.
4. Laser-Assisted Liposuction (LAL or Laser Liposuction): LAL uses laser energy to break down fat cells before suctioning them out. It may also help stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin in treated areas.
Liposuction is not a weight loss procedure but rather a body contouring procedure. It is most suitable for individuals who are close to their ideal weight but have stubborn areas of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise. Liposuction can help improve body proportions and enhance overall body contour.
As with any surgical procedure, liposuction carries risks and potential complications, including infection, bleeding, bruising, numbness, uneven contours, and fluid accumulation. It’s essential for individuals considering liposuction to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss their goals, expectations, and any potential risks associated with the procedure.
What should i know about my health before going ahead with Liposuction?
Several health conditions may increase the risks associated with liposuction or make an individual unsuitable for the procedure. It’s essential for individuals considering liposuction to undergo a thorough medical evaluation and discuss their complete medical history with a qualified plastic surgeon. Here are some health conditions that may warrant caution or make an individual unsuitable for liposuction:
1. Untreated or uncontrolled cardiovascular disease: Conditions such as
uncontrolled hypertension (high blood pressure), coronary artery disease, heart
failure, and history of heart attack can increase the risk of complications during
surgery, such as cardiovascular events or fluid overload.
2. Untreated or uncontrolled bleeding disorders: Individuals with bleeding
disorders such as haemophilia or von Willebrand disease may have an increased
risk of bleeding during and after liposuction, leading to hematoma (collection of
blood under the skin) or other complications.
3. Untreated or uncontrolled diabetes mellitus: Poorly controlled diabetes can
impair wound healing and increase the risk of infection, delayed healing, and
other complications following liposuction.
4. Active infection or illness: Liposuction is a surgical procedure, and undergoing
surgery while actively infected can increase the risk of complications such as
infection and impair the body’s ability to heal properly.
5. History of keloid or hypertrophic scarring: Individuals with a history of
abnormal scarring may be at increased risk of developing keloids or
hypertrophic scars in the areas treated with liposuction.
6. Severe obesity: While liposuction can remove localized areas of fat, it is not a
treatment for obesity. Individuals with severe obesity may have increased
surgical risks and may not achieve satisfactory results from liposuction alone.
7. Significant psychiatric or psychological conditions: Certain mental health
conditions such as body dysmorphic disorder or unrealistic expectations about
the outcomes of liposuction may impact decision-making and post-operative
satisfaction.
8. Smoking or use of nicotine products: Smoking can impair circulation, increase
the risk of complications such as poor wound healing and infection, and
negatively impact surgical outcomes.
9. Use of certain medications: Some medications, such as anticoagulants (blood
thinners) or immunosuppressants, may increase the risk of bleeding, infection,
or other complications during and after liposuction.
10. Pregnancy or breastfeeding: Liposuction is not recommended for individuals
who are pregnant or breastfeeding due to potential risks to the mother and baby.
It’s important for individuals considering liposuction to discuss their medical history, current medications, and lifestyle factors with their plastic surgeon to ensure that they are suitable candidates for the procedure and to minimize the risk of complications.
When should i consider not to fly?
After undergoing a cosmetic procedure abroad, it’s important to be vigilant about your health before flying. Here are some warning signs to watch out for:
1. Breathing Difficulties: Pay attention to any shortness of breath or difficulty
breathing, as this could indicate potential pulmonary complications.
2. Chest Pain: Be alert to chest pain, which may signal cardiovascular issues such
as a heart attack or pulmonary embolism.
3. Infection Symptoms: Look out for signs of infection at the surgical site, such as
increased pain, redness, swelling, or drainage.
4. Leg Symptoms: Check for swelling, redness, or tenderness in your legs, which
may suggest deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
5. Nausea or Vomiting: Monitor for persistent nausea or vomiting, as this could
indicate various underlying issues.
6. Dizziness or Fainting: Take note of any dizziness or fainting spells, which may
indicate dehydration or other concerns.
7. Worsening Swelling or Bruising: Be aware of excessive or worsening swelling
and bruising, which may suggest complications like hematoma.
8. Urinary Issues: Watch for difficulty urinating or blood in the urine, as these may
indicate urinary system problems.
9. Mental Status Changes: Pay attention to any changes in mental status, such as
confusion or disorientation.
If you experience any of these warning signs or other concerning symptoms, seek medical attention promptly. Additionally, consult with your surgeon before flying to ensure it’s safe and to receive appropriate post-operative care instructions.
