Liposuction
Liposuction is a procedure that shapes the body by sucking the excess fat found in certain parts of the body through cannulas inserted through small incisions. It is not seen as a weight loss procedure but as a way to improve the appearance of the body.
Conduct of the Procedure
This is a one-day surgery which lasts up to one to few hours depending on the number of areas to be treated. The procedure is carried out under general anesthesia or under local anesthesia with sedation. Every effort is made to ensure maximum comfort. The incisions made are only a few millimeters long and are usually barely visible. A girdle will also be installed in the operating room. It helps reduce the extent of the edema and achieve the best possible result.
Recovery Period
The girdle installed during the surgery must be worn at all times for a period of two weeks, and only at night for two more weeks. It can be removed for wound care and to take a shower. It helps achieve optimal result.
We recommend that patients limit their activities in the first three days after the surgery. Normal activities can be gradually resumed after four to six weeks.
Patients must rest during the first days, but they must also move their legs, walk regularly, and drink a lot of water to prevent blood clots in their legs (thrombophlebitis).
It is normal to feel some pain after a surgery, especially when several areas were treated.
A certain amount of discharge coming through the dressings is normal in the first few days. They can be changed, if need be. Heavy, bright red bleeding should prompt the patient to see a doctor.
Showers are usually allowed 3 days after the surgery.
Some of the treated areas may need massages after the surgery. If necessary, this will be discussed during the consultation.
Follow-up
Regular follow-up visits will be scheduled to ensure no complications occur. These visits are an opportunity to assess the result and give further instructions. It is not unusual for an edema to persist for several months. This explains why the assessment of the final result can take up to one year.
Treatment
This is the most popular aesthetic surgery procedure.
Liposuction can be carried out in various parts of the body. Several factors, including skin quality and elasticity, may limit the use of liposuction to specific body areas.
The most commonly treated areas are:
- Abdomen
- Flanks
- Lateral thighs (love handles)
- Inner thighs
- Knee
- Arm
- Face
- Neck
- Back
- Male Breasts (Gynecomastia)
Minor Complications
Asymmetries and irregularities: major asymmetries and irregularities may need a corrective surgery.
Hypertrophic scar: very rare complication, given the size of the incisions.
Over- or undercorrection: another liposuction or fat injection may be necessary to fill the empty space.
Decreased sensation in the treated areas: it is caused by damage to the sensitive nerves. This complication is temporary in most cases.
Seroma: a build-up of fluid under the skin. This can be prevented by wearing a supportive girdle. One or more punctures may be needed.
Hematoma: very rare.
Itching, pain, and burning: these symptoms are temporary and disappear after a few months.
Local infection and abscess: very rare. The treatment consists of antibiotics. Another surgery may be needed in case of a new infectious collection.
Skin necrosis: extremely rare. Risks are increased in patients who smoke.
Venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism: a very serious but rare complication. This can be prevented by drinking a lot of water and making quick movements after the procedure.
Fat embolism: occurs when fat cells enter the bloodstream. This complication results in increased heart rate and an altered state of consciousness.
Lidocaine toxicity: a bad reaction to a drug used during the procedure. Such toxicity is very rare.
Abdominal or thoracic perforation: although very rare, this is the most feared complication.
After the Surgery
If weight is gained after the surgery, it will be more noticeable in untreated areas.
In general, the final result is expected after 6 to 12 months.
If a revision proves necessary, it should not occur within 6 months after the surgery.
When you are home, it will be important to see a doctor quickly if one of the following events occurs: significant bleeding, purulent discharge from wounds, increasing pain, unusual fatigue, or fainting.