Liposuction remains one of the most frequently performed body contouring procedures of all. In the article that follows, we will explain liposuction in detail. We’ll cover what liposuction is and what the procedure involves, who the ideal candidate for a liposuction and we’ll also talk about where you should go to undergo the procedure. Let’s begin with an explanation of what liposuction is.

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a commonly performed cosmetic surgery procedure to remove excess fat from the body. The aim of the procedure is to restore the body shape to a desired form on a permanent basis. Fat is removed from areas where it builds up naturally – including the buttocks and hips, thighs and tummy – in order to reduce weight and restore shape. The procedure is tried, tested and safe, and thousands of liposuction routines are carried out daily across the world.

It is not necessarily reserved for persons who are obese and is often undergone by those who are of normal weight and who have tight skin. The procedure can also be carried out in cases of certain illnesses and conditions including lymphoedema, in which swelling of the arms and legs is chronic problem, and also lipoedema which results in fat build-up in the thighs, buttocks and legs.

It is mostly carried out at the request of patients who wish to regain body shape, so let’s have a look at who might be an ideal patient for the liposuction procedure.

Who is an Ideal Patient for Liposuction?

The ideal patient for liposuction is either a sufferer of the illnesses mentioned above who has been referred by a doctor, or someone who is unhappy with excess fat in their body and wants it removed.

It is important to remember that excess fat is not only unsightly, but being aware one is overweight can play heavily on the mental health of an individual. They may become self-conscious and feel unable to go out in public. It can lead to stress, anxiety and depression, and it can have devastating effects on the sufferer’s wellbeing.

It is recommended that those who are considering liposuction talk to an expert who will happily give them a consultation. There are many experts in liposuction in The Woodlands which is a wellness and cosmetics center with a strong reputation for excellent surgical procedures carried out by fully qualified, licensed and experienced practitioners.

We cannot stress how important it is that you undergo medical examination and a consultation with a practitioner before deciding to go ahead with liposuction as like all surgical procedures there are risks to be considered. The risks are the standard ones with surgery and the vast majority of liposuction procedures are successful and trouble free.

This may or may not be the procedure for you and an expert will advise, so now let’s talk about what is actually involved in liposuction and how it is carried out.

What Happens During Liposuction?

Liposuction is performed with the patient who has undergone a general anaesthetic. The various steps for the liposuction procedure are as follows:

  • The surgeon marks the areas of the body where the excess fat is to be removed.
  • The area to be treated is injected with anesthetic and medicines that will reduce and limit swelling, blood loss and bruising.
  • The surgeon will now use one of three methods to break up the fat in the area to be removed, these being high-frequency vibration, laser pulses, or a high-pressure water jet, whichever the surgeon has discussed with the patient in advance.
  • A small incision is made where the fat is to be removed and a suction tube inserted.
  • A vacuum machine sucks the fat from the area while the tube is moved back and forth to further loosen the fat.
  • Excess blood and fat are cleaned from the wound, which is then stitched in the appropriate fashion.

The patient will be fitted with a support to be worn for the next few weeks to reduce swelling and will also be required to take antibiotics. The duration for which they will need to remain off work varies per patient, but strenuous activity must be avoided for up to six weeks.

Possible side effects are minimal but include:

  • bruising and swelling
  • numbness
  • scars
  • inflammation of the treated area
  • fluid coming from the cuts
  • swollen ankles.

If any of the above persist beyond six weeks or are felt severely then a doctor should be called. The risks, side effects and other details will always be explained by the surgeon at the initial consultation, and the patient will always have the option whether to go ahead with the procedure or look for an alternative to surgery.

Remember that while there are risks they are not commonplace, and ensure that your surgeon explains all to you.

Why Choose The Woodlands?

Experts in a wide variety of cosmetic surgery procedures and with expertise in liposuction, The Woodlands Wellness and Cosmetic Center is a highly regarded clinic offering first-class solutions in fat removal and body shaping. The team of experts are highly skilled surgeons who will discuss in detail the procedure they recommend you undergo, talking you through every aspect from the initial consultation to the ultimate completion of your recovery.

A friendly and welcoming team dedicated to ensuring patients get the highest levels of treatment, The Woodlands is the place to go if you are unsure that liposuction is for you as they will recommend whether or not it will be the best option for every individual.

Liposuction is carried out many thousands of times in clinics and surgeries every day and many millions of people have undergone the procedure and regained a satisfactory body shape through fat removal. To find out if this is the answer for you, arrange a consultation at The Woodlands right now for the very best in liposuction.