Liposuction

 

Liposuction

Liposuction is often the only option for permanently removing unsightly fat stores in patients of ideal to normal weight. However, the maximum attainable operation results must always be considered with regard to the patient’s starting situation. The scope of the treatment is limited by the loss of bodily fluids and blood components. Thus, liposuction is not a method for correcting general obesity.

 

The tumescence method

In order to prepare the tissue for liposuction, the tumescence method involves injecting a large amount of diluted anesthetic solution into the subdermal fatty tissue.

The skin swells visibly, as if it were blown up. The fat cells are now „swimming“ and can easily be suctioned.

 

Ultrasound-assisted liposuction

Fat cell destruction using an ultrasound is a method that is gentle on tissue.

Targeted destruction of the water-filled fat cells takes place using the effects of an ultrasound under tumescent local anesthesia. The cell contents are removed as a fatty solution that is easy to suction.

Tissue with low water content (such as blood vessels, lymph channels, neural structures) and connective tissue are for the most part protected. This procedure takes place on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia and general semi-anesthesia and is supervised by an anesthesiologist. More extensive liposuction takes place under general anesthesia, and the patient’s visit is extended until the following day.

 

Post-treatment

For approximately one week following liposuction, a compression suit must be worn during the day and at night.

The subdermal fatty tissue is compressed, preventing fluid from collecting in the operated area. The compression garments are to be worn during the day for three weeks thereafter.

 

Results

The final results of the operation cannot be assessed until three months after the operation.

Most patients experience satisfactory results from the liposuction after complete healing, with considerable improvements to their figure. However, the results of the operation also depend on outside factors such as the general state of the patient’s heath, the patient’s skin type, age, weight and hormonal profile. Damage to the skin such as stretch marks and cellulite cannot be corrected with liposuction.

 

Not a risk-free procedure

Although the greatest of care is taken, complications may arise in some cases during or after medical procedures:

Complications may include:
- Increased bleeding and collection of wound secretion fluids
- Infections
- Bruising
- Temporary numbness
- Swelling
- Rarely, pain (buring similar to muscle soreness)
- Contour irregularities

Do not eat or drink for six hours prior to the operation.
- During the weeks preceding and following the operation, avoid medications such as Aspirin, Aspro, Thomapyrin, Dolomo, etc.
- To avoid blood clots, do light exercise (such as walking) on the day following the operation. Avoid bed rest
- Showering is allowed on the following day
- Drink as much fluid as possible after the operation (water, mineral water, tea).
- Wear compression garments for four weeks after the operation (during the day and at night for at least two weeks). These should be the same garments or equivalent to those fitted prior to the operation
- Avoid active training/exercise of the areas operated on for approximately four weeks