Liposuction
Fat deposits can amass in many areas throughout the body, giving unbalanced contours even to people in good health and adequate fitness. These are often due to hereditary factors as opposed to poor weight control. A liposuction procedure removes excess fat from areas that you find visually unappealing, reshaping the area for improved contours and a slimmer look.
Which areas of the body can liposuction treat?
Liposuction techniques are used throughout the body, most notably to reduce fat deposits and enhance the appearance of the following parts:
- Abdomen and waist, e.g. 'love handles,'
- Back,
- Thighs and knees,
- Buttocks and hips,
- Chest,
- Neck and face, especially cheeks and chin,
- Ankles and calves,
- Upper arms.
The treatment is often performed in conjunction with another cosmetic procedure such as a tummy tuck or facelift, but liposuction is effective on its own for reducing fat deposits.
Is it right for you?
Excess fat deposits on any of the above body parts can be corrected with liposuction, but it is important to remember that the treatment does not fix obesity and you will need to maintain a healthy diet and exercise. Cellulite and loose skin are also not treated by liposuction, and you should speak to your surgeon about any concerns before consenting to the procedure. In order to get the most from the procedure, you should be within 30% of your ideal weight and possess firm, healthy skin and muscles.
The Procedure
If you are a suitable candidate for liposuction, the procedure begins by maximizing your comfort with anaesthesia or sedation. The surgeon then makes small, expert incisions which are chosen for reasons of access and discretion of scarring. A sterile liquid solution is used to stem bleeding and allow the surgeon to work in the area, and soon a cannula (hollow tube) is carefully inserted into the incisions. The tube is manoeuvred back and forth to loosen the fat deposits, and then the cannula sucks the moved fat from the body with its attached syringe or special vacuum. When the alterations and improvements have been made, the incisions are sealed.
Recovery and Results
Swelling and fluid retention will arise after the liposuction surgery, which can initially obscure the results. In a number of months these side-effects will subside (the exact recovery time varies), and the enhancements to the treated areas, the healthier and slimmer contours, should become clear. Occasionally a secondary surgery is recommended to eliminate excess skin.
If you maintain your fitness and a sensible diet, the fatty tissue should be kept at bay. However, failure to keep to a relatively steady weight can aversely affect the results.
How much does it cost?
The cost of surgery always varies between locations and surgeons. Liposuction costs will also depend on the number of areas to be corrected: a single area can cost between $2500 and $4500, with three areas costing from $5500 to $7000, and five areas between $8000 and $10000 on average. Medical insurers are unlikely to pay toward cosmetic procedures.