Liposuction Top 100 FAQ's is provided to you Angelina Cooper an independent Cosmetic Surgery Consultant being sponsored by Cosmetic Harmony (CosmeticHarmony.com) – a medical tourism company that offers cosmetic surgery packages in Bogotá, Colombia for clients abroad. Cosmetic Harmony is pleased to provide you with an abundant amount of insight and information on Liposuction – including tips, suggestions, prices and recovery.


LIPOSUCTION SURGERY: PRIMARY QUESTIONS

1)         What Is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery operation that helps sculpt the body by removing fat deposits from specific areas like the abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, knees, upper arms, under chin, cheeks and neck. The fat is usually removed through a cannula (a hollow tube) and aspirator (a suction device). Liposuction is not a substitute for dieting and exercise, but it can remove stubborn areas of fat that do not respond to traditional weight loss methods.

2)         On what areas of the body can Liposuction be done?

Common locations for Liposuction include: the under chin, cheeks, neck, upper arms, abdomen, lower back, buttocks, hips, thighs, knees, calves and ankles.

3)          How much weight can you lose with Liposuction/Liposculpture?

The scope of Liposuction (Lipoplasty) is not the loss of weight, but the remodeling of the body. In the US, it is generally carried out on two well-defined areas and not on the entire body. In Countries like Colombia where plastic surgeons are not so restricted by insurance companies, Liposuction of the entire body is a common practice.

4)         What is the difference between Liposuction, Liposculpture and Lipoaspiration?

Liposuction and Liposculpture are quasi synonyms, although they do have some differences as shown below.

• Liposuction: is the removal of medium to large amounts of contour fat to reduce the peaks and mounds that portray a heavy and sloppy appearance. These include areas such as below the chin, upper arms, outer breasts, lower abdomen, flanks, hips, and thighs.
• Liposculpture: is the removal of small to medium amounts of fat in rather normal to full areas to sharpen features, accentuate the muscles beneath and create a more cut appearance in the neck, lower cheeks, upper abdomen, outer buttocks, calves, and ankles. Some plastic surgeons refer to Liposculpture when the fat removed its use to refill sunken areas (Lipofilling or Lipostructure), to obtain a global remodeling of the areas to be treated.

5)         What areas of the face and body are treatable with Liposuction?

Liposuction works best for areas of the face and body with stubborn fat deposits resistant to overall weight loss, such as the infamous "love handles." The thighs, abdomen, buttocks, flanks, hips, upper arms, chin, jowels, and neck generally respond well. Liposuction can be performed consecutively on many different sites; in fact, many patients choose to have several body parts treated during the same day. Men and women may also choose Liposuction to reduce breast size (Gynocomastia), a procedure that results in less scarring than other types of plastic surgery.

6)         Who are good candidates for Liposuction surgery?

These procedures are for anyone who cannot obtain the trim and properly contoured look with diet and exercise, possess good skin elasticity and are not looking to lose large volumes of weight. Patients who exceed their body weight by 30%-50% may only be candidates for limited fat removal because of safety concerns and should undergo these procedures in two or more stages. Patients who exceed their ideal weight well over 50% should seek other remedies for weight loss as an initial step and consult a physician experienced in weight management.

7)         Is Liposculpture right for me?

If you're thinking about Liposuction it is essential that you have realistic expectations about what the procedure can do for you. It's important to understand that, while Liposuction can enhance your appearance and self-confidence, it won't necessarily change your looks to match your ideal or those of others. So before you decide to have surgery, please think carefully about your expectations and do not hesitate to contact your plastic surgeon or Cosmetic Harmony for more information and a free consultation.

The best candidates for Liposuction are normal-weight people with firm, elastic skin who have pockets of excess fat in certain areas. You should be physically healthy. Your age is not a major consideration; however, older patients may have diminished skin elasticity and may not achieve the same results as a younger patient with tighter skin.

Liposuction carries greater risk for individuals with medical problems such as diabetes, significant heart or lung disease, poor blood circulation, or those who have recently had surgery near the area to be contoured.

8)         What do I need to know before undergoing Liposuction?

During an initial consultation your plastic surgeon will evaluated your health, assess the condition of your skin, and discuss the options that are best for you. Issues to be discussed in detail will include body contouring methods that are appropriate for your particular situation, the effectiveness and safety of the procedure, and your expectations. Once you have decided to undergo Liposuction, your plastic surgeon will give you the necessary information that you will need to prepare for the surgery.

9)         I know there are different lipo procedures… But briefly, how is Liposuction performed?

In general, Liposuction procedures use small incisions in selected areas and with a high vacuum suction device attached to a small, stainless steel instrument called a cannula, remove fat cells. After the fat is removed, sutures (stitches) will be used to close the small incisions, followed by the application of a dressing and compression garment (girdle) to minimize the post-operative swelling.

10)       What type of anesthesia is required when having Liposuction?

Various types of anesthesia can be used for Liposuction procedures. If a small of amount of fat is being removed from one or two areas, local anesthesia with a light sedative to make you feel drowsy and relaxed may be considered. When treating larger areas (3 or more), general anesthesia is typically used allowing you to be asleep during the procedure. Together, you and the surgeon will select the type of anesthesia that provides the safest and most effective level of comfort for your surgery. As a consideration, general anesthesia could be the better option as some patients feel a level of discomfort under local anesthesia.

11)       What are the main risks and complications for Liposuction surgery?

Every surgical procedure has risks and Liposuction is no different, but the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons has recognized Liposuction as a safe and effective method of removing localized fat areas. The most common risks of Liposuction include infection, allergic reactions to anesthesia or to medications, friction burns, organ damage, fluid accumulation, blood clots, excessive fluid loss, and long healing time. The amount of fat being removed can increase the risks associated with Liposuction because more fat will require a prolonged surgery.

To minimize potential Liposuction side effects, risks, complications, or other problems, make sure you fully understand the procedures you wish to have done, and discuss your expectations and concerns with your physician. Minor Liposuction complications, problems, and general dissatisfaction can be minimized by fully understanding the risks and benefits associated with Liposuction and having realistic expectations. It is extremely important to choose a cosmetic surgeon who will clearly and thoroughly explain potential Liposuction side effects and risks. He or she should also have proper and extensive training, along with state-of-the-art facilities and a good standing in the field. Severe complications can be minimized by disclosing your entire medical history to your doctor and discussing all prescription and over-the-counter medications you take on a regular basis. Patients should be good candidates for Liposuction and fully understand what is involved in this procedure.

To maximize the success of Liposuction surgery and minimize the risk of complications, always follow your cosmetic surgeon's instructions for surgical preparation and postoperative care. If you smoke, your cosmetic surgeon will advise you to stop two weeks prior to and following Liposuction surgery. You may also choose another avenue for fat removal. There are non-surgical Liposuction alternatives available to patients who are not good candidates for Liposuction or simply prefer other methods.

Possible Liposuction Problems

With any type of cosmetic surgery, including Liposuction, complications may arise, but they are rare. Some dangers of Liposuction include infection, a reaction to the anesthesia, blood clotting, and fluid loss. Less severe Liposuction risks include bruises and scars, a numbing of the skin, and moderate problems such as changes in skin pigmentation. Liposuction complications may include:

• Infection
• Extended healing time
• Allergic reaction to medication or anesthesia
• Fat or blood clots - clots can migrate to the lungs and lead to death
• Excessive fluid loss - fluid loss can lead to shock and, in some cases, death
• Fluid accumulation - fluid must be drained
• Friction burns
• Damage to the skin or nerves
• Damage to vital organs

Dangers of Excessive Liposuction

The most common dangers of Liposuction include risks associated with removing too much fat from targeted areas at once, as well as having too much Liposuction performed in a single day. Excessive Liposuction can cause problems including dents, lumps, and sagging skin. In order to minimize surgical complications and the side effects of overexposure to anesthesia, patients should schedule multiple Liposuction procedures at least several days apart.

Minor Complications

Non-life-threatening Liposuction complications include bruising, scars, a lumpy appearance, sagging or discolored skin, focal skin necrosis, fainting after surgery, numbness, and non-lethal drug interactions. All Liposuction problems should be discussed with your doctor, as some may become serious if left untreated.

Severe Liposuction Complications

Severe complications associated with Liposuction are rare, but should be taken into consideration when deciding whether Liposuction is right for you. Severe complications include adverse reactions to anesthesia, cardiac arrest, cardiac arrhythmia, internal blood clots, excessive bleeding, severe drug interactions, and allergic reactions to medication, permanent nerve damage, seizures, and brain damage from anesthesia.

12)       What can I expect after my Liposuction procedure?

In short, it's normal to feel discomfort and to not look your best following surgery. Even though the newer techniques are believed to reduce post-operative discomforts, you may still experience some pain, burning, swelling, bleeding and temporary numbness that could last as long as one year. You will be wearing a snug elastic garment over the treated areas to control swelling and bruising immediately following your surgery. You may also experience some drainage from the incisions sites for two-to-five days following surgery. Pain can be controlled with medicates prescribed by your plastic surgeon, though you still may feel stiff and sore for several days.

13)       Will I Have Scars From Liposuction?

Scars are a normal occurrence when incisions are made. Liposuction is no different since it involves incisions; however, the surgeon will carefully treat and place the small incisions in areas that are better concealed or in creases. Over time the scars from Liposuction will begin to fade until they are hardly noticeable. There will always be a hint of a scar remaining after Liposuction.

14)       What is the average cost of Liposuction?

Liposuction is considered a cosmetic surgical procedure and will not be covered by insurance. Typically, Liposuction will cost an individual between USD $4,000 for 2 small areas and as much as USD $10,000 for 5 areas, but your Liposuction surgeon will have a more specific idea of the Liposuction cost after a consultation. On average, Liposuction in the U.S. costs $2,000 per body area treated. Many patients are choosing to have cosmetic surgery procedures abroad to take advantage of the significantly reduced costs for Liposuction – while keeping the high standard quality and safety. To contact Cosmetic Harmony about Liposuction, please visit our website at www.cosmeticharmony.com.

15)       Will the fat return after a Liposuction?

If the Liposuction patient gains weight the entire body will distribute the fat because the treated area no longer has the same capacity to store additional fat. This is caused because a large portion of fat cells were removed from the treated area.

16)       How can I find a board certified plastic surgeon that has experience in Liposuction procedures?

We can help you find a qualified cosmetic surgeon in your area. Please visit our website at www.cosmeticharmony.com or contact us via contact@cosmeticharmony.com.

17)       Will the doctor show me Liposuction before and after photos?

Yes. Most doctors will provide you with Liposuction / lipoplasty before and after pictures. You may also see before and after photos on Cosmetic Harmony's online photo gallery at www.cosmeticharmony.com. There you will find many patients' pictures and testimonials.

18)       How will I be evaluated for Liposuction?

At a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon, a patient will be evaluated if they are a likely candidate for Liposuction and whether it will benefit them. The surgeon will want to discuss the patient's medical history, their physical health and well-being, and the goals the wish to attain through Liposuction. The more honest the Liposuction candidate is with the surgeon, the more likely the individual will be happy with their results because the surgeon can inform the candidate if the desired Liposuction results are attainable.

19)   What are some of the most common benefits of Liposuction?

Liposuction is the most commonly performed plastic surgery in the United States. This technique is used to reshape the body by permanently removing localized fat deposits. A newly trim body can provide a psychological lift and an extra incentive to exercise regularly to maintain fitness. Many patients even find physical activity more pleasurable after shedding extra fat, and they also find that clothes tend to fit them better.

20)       Does the removal of fat tighten the skin as well?

Not exactly. In fact, some fat deposits may be unforgiving to major fat removal and lead to more relaxation of the skin. Many new methods are being investigated in order to test their effect on skin contraction and tightening. Ultrasonic Liposuction has been suggested as a stimulus to skin contraction. Some cosmetic surgeons are recommending the application of laser energy to the Liposuction site. Unfortunately, it is the heat generated by these modalities that is believed to be the stimulus for the contraction process. If the heat of Ultrasonic and laser energy combined with the rigors of the suction pressure is applied too aggressively near the skin, it can lead to serious skin injury. On the other hand, the use of the microcannulaes at less than 3.0 mm in diameter, if applied near the skin in selected areas, can help achieve contraction as the fat is removed with little risk.

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