Have you been considering having liposuction, but still have a lot of unanswered questions? We decided to save you time researching and reading endless posts. We have compiled your frequently asked questions and everything you need to know prior to undergoing liposuction.
What is liposuction?
Liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure which removes fat cells from areas of the body that have been immune to weight loss from diet and exercise.
Where can you have liposuction?
Liposuction can be undertaken in most areas of the body where there is excess fat. The most popular areas include the abdomen, upper and inner thighs, hips and buttocks. Other areas for liposuction can include the knees, chin and neck.
Does liposuction help with weight loss?
Liposuction is not considered an alternative option for weight loss. You will only be able to lose a limited amount of weight through liposuction. It is a procedure intended for those who have small areas of stubborn fat which they have been unable to lose as a result of exercise and a healthy diet. If you remove too many fat cells through liposuction, you risk ending up with excess skin, which may require another surgery such as a tummy tuck. There are also numerous other safety risks that may occur if too much fat is removed in one procedure.
You will need to be as close as possible to your ideal weight before undergoing liposuction.
Who is an appropriate candidate for liposuction?
To undergo liposuction, you will need to:- Be over 18 years old – there is no upper age limit, however, older patients will not have as good skin laxity and will need to be aware of this when considering the end results- Be physically and mentally healthy- Have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve- Have a healthy BMI (between 18.5 and 24.9). Centre for Surgery will not operate on those with a BMI considered obese, or over 30.
How is liposuction performed?
There are numerous different methods for undertaking liposuction including laser lipo and MicroLipo. At Centre for Surgery, we undertake tumescent liposuction. This involves injecting a tumescent diluted anaesthetic into the skin, which makes the area swollen and firm, otherwise known as tumescent. This removes the need for a general anaesthetic during the procedure. Incisions are then able to be made and cannulas are used to suck out the fat cells. There are several benefits to undertaking tumescent liposuction. There is no use of heat, therefore there is less damage to the interior and exterior of the body. You will have less risk of problems with the results, such as rippling skin. Tumescent liposuction also ensures there is less risk of side effects such as bleeding, bruising and swelling.
Does liposuction leave you with scars?
Liposuction is a surgical procedure and involves incisions, so you will be left with scars. However, we use narrow cannulas, and as a result, the surgeon only has to make small incisions which will be just a few millimetres in length. These incisions will look worse directly after the procedure, however, with time they will fade in size and colour and will not be noticeable.
What is the recovery period like?
After the procedure, it is normal to experience some bruising and swelling, especially at the incision site. You will be given a compression garment which you will be required to wear. This will help to speed up the recovery period, will reduce bruising and swelling and will keep the area in the best shape. You will need to take at least two to three days off work, however, some people will feel the need to take more time off. You will have to avoid all strenuous physical activity for two weeks. After this point, you will be able to undertake light exercises. You will be able to resume all physical activities after six weeks.
How long does it take to see the results?
Swelling can prevent you from fully seeing the actual results of your liposuction. Swelling may be present for at least three months following the liposuction, in some cases even longer. Once the swelling has completely gone down, you will then be able to see the full results of the liposuction.
Can you gain weight back after having liposuction?
One of the most commonly asked questions is whether or not you will gain weight back after liposuction. It is important to remember that liposuction is not an alternative option for weight loss. It works by removing the fat cells from certain areas of your body. Following the procedure, it will be more difficult to gain weight back in the operated area. Instead, any gained fat will be stored in other areas. Therefore, you will be able to gain weight following liposuction. After the procedure, it is important to maintain a healthy weight and exercise regime if you want to maintain your results and weight.
Does liposuction treat cellulite?
Liposuction does not treat cellulite, stretch marks or dimples.
Are you interested in liposuction? Contact Centre for Surgery today to find out more and to book a consultation with one of our surgeons.
