Liposuction is a widely popular cosmetic surgery procedure. Many think that it is a weight-loss procedure that can help them achieve ideal shape easily. Dr Pichet argues that it is not what most people think.
Taking out of large amounts of fat can be dangerous. Those seeking to lose a large amount of fat should consider other alternatives, and once they have reached a more appropriate weight, liposuction can help contour the body.
In fact, ideal candidates for liposuction must be 30% within the healthy weight range; therefore obesity cannot be treated with this procedure. Fat is only partially removed from a certain area of the body while obese people have fat deposits all over their body. Liposuction is ideal for those within healthy weight range with unproportionate parts that they wish to correct.
There are two major types of liposuction - high water injection pressure liposuction and laser assisted liposuction. In wet liposuction, a large dose of liquid is injected forcing the compartments of fat to swell and firm up so the surgeon extract the unwanted fat more smoothly and with minimal bleeding. A laser-assisted liposuction helps to liquefy the fat in your body before it is removed. It is less invasive and damaging because lasers can be fine-tuned to deliver their energy beneath your skin.
Dr Pichet also emphasizes that he would only perform liposuction on suitable candidates only, otherwise there could be complicated results following the procedure.
Liposuction is a simple procedure performed as a day case and it usually take about 2 hours. Before the surgery, the surgeon will mark the treatment area on your body and show you the potential results of liposuction compared with your original appearance. If you are a smoker, you have to quit smoking as it might cause side effects.
Dr Pichet also explains the steps of liposuction. First, local anesthesia or General anesthesia is used, and then liposuction is performed through small, inconspicuous incisions. Next, a tube is inserted through these incisions to loosen excess fat which will be later suctioned out of the body.
After the surgery, there can be fluid retention and swelling. It may take several weeks to months for the swelling to fully dissipate. You will need to wear your elastic garment or bandages for two to three weeks to help reduce swelling while providing the area with support and shaping. Side effects, although quite rare if performed well, might include infection, scarring, persisting swelling and fluid imbalance, all of which can be treated by the surgeon.
"Liposuction is a body contouring procedure, not a weight loss procedure," Dr Pichet highlights, emphasizing that patients should have a realistic goal before undergoing liposuction.
credit:global-report
