Liposuction is often an option when diet and exercise are no longer effective in getting the desired body shape. However, before deciding to undergo this procedure, it would be nice if you first know what the types, conditions, and risks of liposuction are.
Liposuction generally aims to improve body shape in the abdomen, buttocks, hips, thighs, or face. In addition, this procedure can also be performed on the breasts, arms, calves, ankles, or back.
Liposuction is done by making small incisions in certain parts of the body to insert a small, thin tube that is connected to a liposuction device. However, the patient will be sedated first. This anesthesia is adjusted to the type of liposuction and how much fat will be removed.
Liposuction procedure or liposuction can only get rid of fat, but not to get rid of cellulite or stretch marks. Liposuction is also not the main choice for treating obesity.
Some Liposuction Techniques
There are several liposuction techniques that doctors may recommend, including:
Liposuction tumescent (tumescent liposuction)
This is the most commonly used liposuction technique. The doctor will inject a sterile fluid containing salt water, local anesthetic, and medication to narrow the blood vessels, in the area of the body where the liposuction procedure will be performed.
Next, the doctor will make an incision in the area and suck the fat and fluid that is there.
Laser liposuction (laser-assisted liposuction)
This liposuction technique uses a high-powered laser beam to destroy and dissolve fat. Fat that has been crushed, will be sucked and removed using a hose connected to the suction machine.
Liposuction ultrasound (ultrasound-assisted liposuction)
Liposuction ultrasound uses a special machine that uses sound waves under the skin to melt the fat cell walls, making them easier to remove. This technique is effective for removing fat from the upper abdomen and sides, breasts, buttocks, legs, and arms.
Apart from being aesthetically pleasing, liposuction can also be used to treat several conditions, such as swelling of fatty tissue (pseudolipoma) and breast enlargement in men.
Criteria for Suitable Candidates for Liposuction
Before undergoing the liposuction procedure, there are several criteria that you must meet in order to get maximum results. The following are some of the criteria for people who are suitable for liposuction:
- Ideal body weight or overweight, but not classified as obese
- Healthy physical and mental condition
- Fat is difficult to lose, even after diet and exercise
- Tight and elastic skin
- Do not smoke
Your doctor will not recommend liposuction if you have heart disease, diabetes, or a weakened immune system.
If the above criteria are met, you can see a surgeon for a consultation session. Ask everything related to the liposuction procedure, such as the costs, benefits, and risks. Also convey your medical history and list of medications you are currently taking.
The Risks of Liposuction that are Important to Beware of
As long as it is performed by a competent surgeon and adequate medical equipment, liposuction is safe to perform. However, there are some postoperative complaints and possible complications that can occur. Some of the common complaints after surgery include:
- Painful
- Swollen
- Numb
- Bruises
To treat this condition, doctors usually prescribe painkillers and antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection, while the swelling can subside on its own within a few weeks after surgery.
Meanwhile, complications that can occur as a result of the liposuction procedure include:
- Wavy or uneven skin
- Bleeding
- Damage to nerves, blood vessels, lungs, and organs in the stomach
- Allergic reactions to anesthetics
- Continuous swelling
- Burns caused by liposuction teknik ultrasound
- Asymmetry or body contours become unequal
- Infection
- Postoperative complications, such as heavy blood and fluid loss, blood or fat clots in the lungs, and fluid buildup in the lungs
The risk of these complications is more likely to occur if you are obese or have heart problems.
Liposuction can make you slimmer, but it's not the main way to lose weight. Prioritize a healthy lifestyle, such as exercising regularly, getting enough rest, and consuming foods low in fat and calories, before deciding to undergo liposuction.
If you decide to undergo liposuction and want to know more about the procedure, you can consult a doctor. The doctor will help you answer questions and determine the type of liposuction procedure that suits your body condition and health.
