Improve
body shape by removing exercise-resistant
fat deposits with a tube and vacuum device.
Can be performed using the tumescent technique,
in which targeted fat cells are infused
with saline containing solution with a
local anesthetic before liposuction to
reduce post-operative bruising and swelling.
Common locations for liposuction include
chin, cheeks, neck, upper arms, above
breasts, abdomen, buttocks, hips, thighs,
knees, calves, ankles.
For larger volumes of fat or for fibrous
body areas, ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty
(UAL) may be used. UAL is a new technique
in which a ultrasound probe is inserted
beneath the skin to "liquify"
the fat before it is suctioned.
Length:
Local,
epidural, or general.
Anesthesia:
Usually
outpatient. Extensive procedures may require
short inpatient stay.
In/Outpatient:
Usually
outpatient.
Side
Effects:
Temporary
bruising, swelling, numbness, soreness,
burning sensation. Tumescent: Temporary
fluid drainage from incision sites. UAL:
Larger incisions for cannula.
Risks:
Asymmetry.
Rippling or bagginess of skin. Pigmentation
changes. Skin injury. Fluid retention.
Excessive fluid loss leading to shock.
Infection. UAL: thermal burn injury caused
by the heat from the ultrasound device.
Recovery:
Back
to work: 1 to 2 weeks. More strenuous
activity: 2 to 4 weeks. Full recovery
from swelling and bruising: 1 to 6 months
or more. Use of tumescent technique or
UAL may decrease post-operative bruising
and swelling.
