

During your consultation, your goals and areas of specific concern will be addressed. An evaluation of your skin tone, fat density and distribution will determine the best liposuction technique for you.
Liposuction is an outpatient procedure. You arrive at the
hospital about 1 hour before your procedure. Using an ink
marker, the areas of fat to be removed are carefully drawn
on your body. Anesthesia can be a general (fully asleep),
twilight sedation or regional anesthesia or even local
anesthesia. Small incisions about 1/4 to 1/2 inch in length are
made in hidden areas or in skin folds near the area where
fat is to be removed. The tumescent saline solution is then
infiltrated in the area. Using a probe or cannula,
liposuction is then performed and the loosened fat is
removed by suction to a container. The amount of fat being
removed in each area is constantly evaluated during the
procedure to allow removal of the appropriate amount of fat
and to sculpt and shape the area being treated. The maximum
of amount of fat that can be removed during one procedure is
about 5 litres or 5000 cc.
The liposuction procedure
normally takes 1 to 2 hours, depending upon the size of the area(s)
to be treated. The small incisions are then closed
with absorbable (dissolving) sutures and covered with a
band aid. After the procedure, you will be transported to
the recovery room with a compression garment in place. When
you are ready, you will be allowed to return home with a
family member or friend and will be given specific
instructions.
Although liposuction is a surgical procedure, most patients recover rapidly and have minimal pain. Most patients report mild to moderate discomfort and require strong pain killers for only a few days. Patients are encouraged to get up and start walking immediately while wearing their compression garment continuously. The compression garment may be taken off to allow bathing or showering and to allow the skin to breathe for about 1 hour per day. The compression garment is worn underneath your clothing for about 2 weeks continuously and then for as much as possible over the next 1 to 3 months. Most patients will return to work in a few days depending on how they feel and the extent of their liposuction.
The day after surgery, when the compression garment is removed to allow bathing, you will see your new body shape and contour. Thereafter, it will take a few weeks to a few months for all the swelling and bruising to resolve and the final result to be seen. It is important to wear the compression garment as instructed. Light exercise can usually begin at 5 days and is gradually increased to tolerance. Exercise will help to speed up healing and resolution of the swelling. Massage may also be recommended.
Your improved contour and shape will continue to improve over weeks and months as you wear the compression garment and begin to exercise. It is important to continue to maintain fitness and a healthy diet. Weight gain can alter an otherwise good result. Otherwise, as you continue with your exercise and weight control, your improved body contour will reflect the healthy and active life you lead.
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