Trying to eliminate pockets of excess fat that accumulate on the abdomen, flanks, thighs, and other areas of the body can be a frustrating process. Often, diet and exercise on their own are just not sufficient to the task. In such cases, many people who want to achieve more aesthetically pleasing body contours turn to liposuction. This method has been one of the most popular plastic surgery techniques in the last 2-3 decades. This safe, proven procedure has allowed millions of patients to improve their figures through the precise targeting and removal of isolated deposits of fat. Often combined with other plastic surgery procedures such as abdominoplasty (“tummy tuck” surgery) and breast augmentation, liposuction is a potentially ideal solution for anyone looking to refine and rejuvenate their contours.
Available to both men and women, the procedure is the usual resort after failed attempts to address issues of excess fats in certain areas. It is normally done under general anaesthetic and requires time for recovery at the facility where it was performed. The procedure begins with the numbing of tissues in the target area, after which, a long and thin cannula is inserted to suction the fat. Once the intended amount of fat has been removed, the surgeon moves on to treat another area, and repeats the process.
While there is no upper age limit for patients who want to have liposuction, there are risks associated with any type of surgery. Therefore, patients should be in basically good health in order to safely undergo the procedure. Patients who suffer from serious medical conditions or who take certain medications may not be good candidates for liposuction. Consult with your primary care physician and plastic surgeon to find out whether you are an appropriate candidate for this procedure. Because liposuction removes fat but does not tighten skin, patients with good skin elasticity tend to experience the most aesthetically pleasing results. Older patients typically have less supple skin than younger patients.
Certain health conditions may prevent patients from being suitable liposuction candidates. People with chronic ailments such as diabetes and high blood pressure are more likely to achieve less-than-desirable aesthetic results. Individuals who have compromised immune systems and those who suffer from diabetes, poor blood circulation, heart disease, or lung disease should not undergo liposuction, as they could suffer serious health complications. If patients have recently had another surgery in the area they would like to treat, they should wait until the area has healed before considering liposuction.