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Liposuction

Liposuction

Procedure – Liposuction is the process by which local body fat deposits are removed from areas of the body that have responded poorly to diet and exercise. These problem areas may include the chest, back, stomach, thighs, arms and chin. The international opinion is that removing more than 3 litres of fat at one time can cause serious complications that may endanger the health of the patient. The surgeon makes small incisions in the skin near fatty areas and inserts a long, hollow tube (known as a canola), which vacuums out fatty deposits.

Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL) refers to a new technology whereby the tip of the suction tube vibrates at a rapid speed. This vibration loosens the fat cells so that they may be suctioned away gently with less trauma to the surrounding tissues. Using the tumescent technique, targeted fat cells are infused with saline containing solution with a local anesthetic before the procedure to reduce post-operative bruising and swelling.

Using Ultrasound-Assisted Lipoplasty (UAL), an ultrasound probe is inserted under the skin to “liquefy” the fat before it is suctioned out. UAL treatments result in smoother skin, and make the liposuction from sensitive areas easier for the plastic surgeon. There is a general sensitivity after the procedure which lasts about two weeks.

SmartLipo is different in that it uses a carefully calibrated laser to liquefy fat deposits through the top layers of the patient’s skin. A small canola of approximately 0,2 mm in diameter containing a laser fibre is inserted into the skin. The canola delivers the laser’s energy to the fat cells causing them to rupture and easily drain away. The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia with less down time and side effects than traditional liposuction.

Duration – It can range between 1 to 2 hours.

Anesthesia – General or local anesthetic

Hospital Stay – Patient may leave the same day.

Scar Tissue Healing Period – This means that the swelling will take approximately one month to subside.

Risks And Side Effects – Asymmetry, Rippling, or bagginess of skin. Other risks include pigmentation changes, skin injury, infection, and fluid retention. Excessive fluid loss may lead to shock. UAL: heat from the ultrasound device may cause thermal burn injury. With a 30 per cent chance of needing a follow-up operation, liposuction is commonly regarded among industry professionals as the cosmetic operation most likely to disappoint

Physical Work/Sports – 4 weeks after the procedure