How does liposuction work?

The patient has to undergo fat removal surgery under anesthesia after all the surgical pre-workup is done and risks are assessed. In different types of liposuction surgical procedures, there is a particular way in which fat is separated in the target areas. Following the fat separation, it is collected into a liposuction machine using a suction tube or “cannula.” All excess fat areas are targeted from different directions, and dislodged fat is sucked out. Post-procedure drainage tubes are placed to evacuate the blood and fluid that collect in the initial post-operative days. A compression garment should be worn after the cosmetic surgery.

Although liposuction removes excess fat and gives you a new appearance, the effect can go away within a few months after the plastic surgery unless a strict diet and regular exercise routine are followed.

Types of liposuction:

Tumescent liposuction:

Tumescent liposuction is the most common and classic type of liposuction surgery. It involves injecting a medicated solution into the fat, which has an anesthetic effect and allows easy suction of fat along with the fluid, with minimal blood loss and bruising.

Benefits of tumescent liposuction

• Can be performed with minimal anesthesia
• Used to get rid of large areas of fat accumulation
• Less blood loss, bruising, and swelling
• Preferred in those patients having high anesthetic risks

Drawbacks of tumescent liposuction

• Time-consuming
• A large amount of solution needs to be injected
• A recovery period of days to a few weeks

Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL):

In ultrasound-assisted liposuction, ultrasound waves (ultrasonic energy) are used to liquefy the solid fat into fat cells, which can be vacuumed out by suction tubes. It can be done externally (above the skin with a special emitter) or internally (beneath the skin using a heated cannula).

Benefits of ultrasound-assisted liposuction

• Less procedure time, out-patient procedure
• Removes dense fibrous fatty tissue efficiently, for example, upper back or male breast
• Skin tightening is achieved
• Removes fat more precisely

Drawbacks of ultrasound-assisted liposuction

• Seromas (fluid-filled cavities) are more common due to cavitation
• Multiple visits may be required to attain results

How do you know which type of liposuction is right for you?

First, you need to fulfill a few criteria to be eligible to undergo liposuction. An ideal candidate does not smoke, is within 30% of their ideal weight, and has firm and elastic skin. You should be healthy enough to undergo this procedure, as there are risks involved with bleeding, bruising, and anesthesia.

Consult with an experienced aesthetic plastic surgeon like Dr. Vasant Gholave, who is well-qualified to do this procedure. He will guide you regarding the pros and cons of different types of options available with liposuction and will suggest the best suitable type depending on your individual needs and goals. For example:

• If you have large fat pockets: Tumescent liposuction or power-assisted liposuction may be recommended
• If you have small areas of excess fat: The cosmetic surgeon may recommend laser-assisted liposuction or ultrasound-assisted liposuction
• If you have fibrous stubborn fatty tissue: Ultrasound-assisted liposuction may be recommended
• If you wish to contour and sculpt different areas of your body: You may benefit from a combined approach
• If you wish to have a non-invasive procedure: The doctor may recommend ultrasound-assisted liposuction or laser-assisted liposuction

Is there anything you can do to prepare for liposuction surgery, both physically and emotionally?

• Understand the liposuction procedure, pre-operative measures, and post-operative care.
• Get all your queries answered by the surgeon before deciding on surgery.
• You should be aware of the risks, side effects, and complications associated with the procedure.
• The surgeon should know all the medicines you take and any medical conditions you suffer from, including allergies. The surgeon may advise you to stop some medicines a few days before the surgery.
• You should restrict alcohol consumption and smoking.
• You must understand that your appearance will change after the cosmetic surgery, and you should prepare yourself to accept the new version of yourself.
• You should try to maintain weight control before the surgery and start with exercise and a healthy diet routine.
• You must be prepared to maintain a healthy lifestyle with healthy diet routines and regular exercises to maintain your enhanced look and body shape after the surgery.

Make sure to consult an experienced surgeon like Dr. Vasant Gholave, Director of Arra Aesthetics, Pune. During the consultation, Dr. Vasant can help you understand the different types of liposuction and what might be best for your specific case. He can answer any questions you may have and help you feel comfortable with the procedure. All liposuction techniques are proven effective. It depends on your needs and goals of outcome and which technique is the best for you.

Contact us at +91-8378860999 or email us at arraaesthetics@gmail.com to book a consultation.

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This blog was originally written on October 3, 2022, and updated on February 17, 2023.