Liposuction is the removal of localized collections of fat from various regions of the body. By contouring the fatty padding, the underlying attractive muscular shape will become more defined. In this way, the body can be aesthetically sculpted. Certain regions of the body are more likely to benefit from this approach. The "love handles" and "matronly middle" for example, are well suited to contouring. Hips, thighs, knees, and chin are other commonly addressed sites. Having a stable weight and fit muscular frame also improves the overall results. The removal of fat cells is permanent, but each remaining fat cell can enlarge. Thus, liposuction is not an effective means of weight loss.
The best candidates for liposuction are healthy and fit people with localized areas that bother them. Having elastic skin and being a nonsmoker will improve the skin's ability to tighten up after the fat has been removed.
After fat has been removed for contouring, compression helps obliterate the empty spaces left behind. Avoiding exertion for two weeks helps prevent the accumulation of blood or fluid into the space the fat used to be. The skin gradually tightens as the spaces obliterate, creating a more contoured profile. Most people need strong pain medicine for five to seven days. After that, they often switch to Tylenol ® or Motrin ®. Activities are gradually increased until they reach a normal intensity and duration four to six weeks after the surgery. During this time, the compression garment is worn day and night to help the contouring, avoid fluid collecting and reduce swelling. It actually aids in comfort.
Surgeon selection is critical. Surgery is very safe in experienced hands. Most American Board of Plastic Surgery certified surgeons will not remove over 5,000 cubic centimeters as an outpatient. Removing a larger volume may require a blood transfusion and continuous monitoring in a hospital setting. Having two smaller procedures is safer and easier to recover from if a larger volume removal is indicated. By staging the procedure, there is a better chance of the skin retracting maximally and avoiding the need for hospitalization and a blood transfusion. Surgeon experience is critical in determining outcome. Viewing examples of average results can give a more realistic idea for expected results than computer generated images. These images can lead to unrealistic expectations.
Whether the procedure is performed at an office setting or a hospital setting, the patient should be sure the facility is an accredited one. Both JCAHO and the AAAASF are recognized certifying agencies that assure safety standards are upheld. Utilizing a Board Certified anesthesiologist(link) is also critical in assuring a safe and pleasant experience with minimal risks.
Liposuction is a safe and effective means of correcting contour irregularities. They may be used in conjunction with excisional procedures (such as tummy tuck) or in sequence for body contouring that cannot be achieved by diet and exercise alone. In experienced hands, they are safe and effective with minimal risks.
RESEARCH your Doctor's qualifications - you are going to look at the results for the rest of your life!
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