What is liposuction and what does the procedure look like?

Liposuction is a procedure that removes excess fat from specific areas of the body - especially problem areas that are difficult to get rid of through natural means, such as diet or physical activity. Despite the weight loss, it is not a weight-loss procedure, instead it significantly improves appearance by modeling the figure, accentuating the waistline or rounding the buttocks. There are several types of liposuction - traditional, laser or ultrasound. The choice of method corresponds to the individual predisposition and expectations of each patient.

The procedure is performed under general or intravenous anesthesia and lasts - depending on the type of liposuction and the extent of the operation - from 2 to 5 hours. It is preceded by an initial consultation, during which qualification for the procedure takes place. During liposuction, the surgeon draws a map on the body of the areas from which fat will be extracted. He then makes several small incisions in the skin - the fatty tissue is injected with a special anesthetic solution and then broken up with a special apparatus so that excess fat can be suctioned out. Nowadays, before the fat is removed, the fat cells are "dissolved" using a laser or ultrasound, so there is no damage to the tissues. Approximately 3-4 liters of fat can be removed in a single procedure.

Laser liposuction uses a special device that emits laser waves, which, when administered continuously, lead to the destruction of fat cells. When the patient - in addition to getting rid of a few pounds or centimeters - is also interested in filling selected areas with their own fat, a laser emitting a single laser beam is used, which breaks up rather than destroys the cells, so they can be used as a filler. Ultrasonic liposuction, on the other hand, uses a device with an effective but gentle action, so there is no damage to the vessels.

After the liposuction is performed, a special compression suit is applied to reduce the resulting swelling.

How to prepare for a liposuction procedure?

Liposuction is preceded by an initial consultation, necessary tests and qualification for the procedure. Three weeks before the scheduled procedure, blood clotting-lowering drugs and hormonal medications should be discontinued. One week before the procedure, it is recommended to stop or limit stimulants such as alcohol and cigarettes. On the day of the procedure, the patient must be fasting. In addition, bathe thoroughly and remove hair if the treated areas are covered with them. Refrain from applying cosmetics to the skin.

What to do after liposuction surgery?

After the liposuction procedure, the patient remains in the hospital for one day. Swelling and bruising occur during the procedure, hence painkillers are administered to relieve pain. For about two weeks, intense sunbathing, use of tanning beds and saunas should be limited, and excessive exercise and physical activity should be abandoned. It is imperative to follow the individual doctor's recommendations, as well as to remember to be active and eat a proper diet.

What are the contraindications to liposuction surgery?

Liposuction is a procedure that can be performed on fully healthy individuals. Contraindications for the available methods are diabetes mellitus, coagulation disorders, chronic, autoimmune and cancerous diseases, vascular blemishes, pregnancy. In addition, the procedures are not performed on people with mental disorders, as well as on compulsive smokers and people with weight problems.