Body liposuction

The human body often has areas of localized fat deposition in the subcutaneous tissue, known as fat depots. Fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise are referred to as lipodystrophies and are characteristically located in the female and male body.

The surgical technique of extracting localized fat from the human body is called liposuction. The operation can be performed at the same time as other operations.

WHAT CAN BE DONE?

Liposuction aims to reduce localized and stubborn fat. Before surgery, the areas to be treated are drawn on the body. Then through very small incisions, and using a special cannula, the special liposuction solution is injected into the fatty tissue and tunnels are created. The detached fat cells are sucked out of the body together with the solution, with the help of a powerful pump and special suction cannulas. In areas with strong local thickness this cycle can be repeated several times. An important element in liposuction is the balance of the fluids that are administered before and those that are sucked after, together with the fat, from the body. Fat cells removed from the body cannot be regenerated, so this technique reduces fat stores. If the patient's weight increases after liposuction, the fat is deposited evenly throughout the body.

WHO IS LIPOSUCTION FOR?

Candidates for liposuction are all adult patients with lipodystrophy who have stabilized their body weight, have achieved a normal BMI (body mass index) and have no other serious health problems. It is also aimed at those patients who are going to undergo a facelift, thigh lift, brachioplasty, abdominoplasty and breast reduction. These operations are carried out simultaneously with small-scale liposuction in order to enhance the post-operative result.

WHAT IS THE TYPE OF ANESTHESIA?

When liposuction is planned on a small scale, the patient can receive local anesthesia in the office. Otherwise, the operation is performed under general anesthesia or intoxication in an organized clinic. The duration of the surgery depends on the areas being treated. After surgery, it is advisable to stay in the clinic for a few hours and immediately mobilize the patients.

WHAT WILL THE SCARS LOOK LIKE AFTER THE SURGERY?

The wounds created during surgery are very small and we often close them with one or no stitches. By extension, the scars that are created are extremely small and often after some time are not visible to the naked eye.

HOW LONG WILL THE RESULTS LAST?

Immediately after the surgery, swelling occurs which gradually disappears in the first weeks. Patients are asked to wear special compression garments for 6 weeks, which limit the swelling and on the other hand help the tissues to fuse in their new positions. The result is considered permanent after about 3 months and remains stable as long as patients do not increase their body weight too much. The distribution of fat after liposuction is done evenly throughout the body.

WHAT ARE THE LIMITATIONS OF LIPOSUCTION?

No skin is removed during liposuction, so old stretch marks and scars remain. Likewise, pre-existing sagging is not corrected. Therefore patients who do not have elastic skin may not be suitable candidates for liposuction alone.

One of the most serious limitations of liposuction surgery is the stable - and within normal limits - body mass index. The technique is not a slimming method and should only be recommended to patients who have had a stable weight for the last 6 months.

Also, because it is deemed necessary to use the pressure garment for 6 weeks after the surgery, the summer period should be avoided. As in all cosmetic operations, in liposuction, patients with serious health problems or those with dysmorphic syndrome should be prevented from the surgery.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF LIPOSUCTION?

The doctor will evaluate your general condition and your history and, if he decides that you are suitable for surgery, he will inform you about the possible complications and what needs to be done to reduce the possibility of their occurrence. You will also be asked to stop smoking and refrain from using supplements that affect blood clotting. The anesthesiologist will then talk to you about the type of anesthesia you will receive and the possible complications.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO BEFORE SURGERY?

Depending on your age, you will be given instructions on the medications you may be taking and should be stopped or replaced, as well as on the additional testing that needs to be done based on your history. Your weight should remain stable at the lowest levels, because possible fluctuations may delay the surgery, and you will be asked to exercise gently for two months before the surgery.

The doctor will explain the value of smoking cessation and proper nutrition in wound healing. One week before the surgery, measurements will be taken to order a special pressure garment, you will be photographed and the consent form will be signed.

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER SURGERY?

You stay at the clinic for a few hours, but your time away from work must have been calculated at 1 week. This doesn't mean you won't be able to do light work much sooner, but you'll generally feel overwhelmed. Abstaining from sports for 1 month is also recommended.

When you leave the surgery you will wear a special pressure garment which you will keep for 6 weeks. In the first days, a small amount of fluid drains from the wounds and ecchymoses (bruises) may develop around them. The pain when present is easily treated, but the swelling subsides slowly, so it will take 2-3 months to finalize the result.

WHAT IS THE COST OF LIPOSUCTION?

The cost of liposuction is calculated by adding the cost of the clinic, in which the patient is operated and treated, the fee of the Plastic Surgeon and the Anesthesiologist. The purchase of the special pressure garment must be included in the costs.