LIPOSUCTION
WHAT IS IT?
Liposuction is a technique in plastic surgery that allows for the removal of localized fat. In the conventional liposuction process, we introduce a cannula of about 3 mm in diameter through a small incision in the designated area of the body and, by back-and-forth movements, we remove the fat.
Laser lipolysis is less traumatic
Today, we find a significant technological advancement in the liposuction technique. It is the laser lipolysis, which is liposuction assisted by laser. The cannula, which is only 1 mm, has a laser at the tip that, when it hits the fat cell, ruptures it and makes the aspiration of the liquefied fat easier. It is a less traumatic process, allowing for fewer bruises, less swelling, less bleeding, and less postoperative pain. There is greater uniformity of results.
Lipo-sculpting
Lipo-sculpting involves the removal of fat from some more prominent areas for reinjection into regions with depression or lack of volume. In this case, it is necessary to perform conventional liposuction because we need whole fat to inject into the areas to be filled.
It is important to remember that we use liposuction only for localized fat in areas where there was no flaccidity. Furthermore, liposuction does not treat cellulite.
Good News: the aspirated fat does not return. The number of fat cells decreases, and the remaining ones do not multiply. If there is a volume X left after liposuction, this volume Y will always be maintained. Even if the patient gains weight, they will maintain the same contour left by the liposuction.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Technique
We use wet liposuction where we inject, before liposuction, a solution with adrenaline to reduce bleeding (tumescent).
Anesthesia
It can be local, epidural, or even general, depending on the number of areas to be liposuctioned.
Surgical Time
Approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on the volume to be aspirated.
Risks
The chances are small, but bleeding and bruising may occur, as the localized fat areas do not have large-caliber vessels. However, when performing extensive liposuction, an autotransfusion (blood reserve from the patient) is planned.
Note: this concern about blood loss is much lower in a laser lipolysis procedure.
PRE-OPERATIVE
1) Complementary exams to be specified.
2) Photographs of the areas to be liposuctioned are important for evaluation, surgical planning, and documentation.
3) Provide a compression garment (binder) and bring it to the clinic on the day of surgery.
4) Arrive at the clinic on the agreed day and time, preferably accompanied. 5) Do not bring jewelry or other valuable items to the clinic.
6) Do not paint your nails.
7) Any occurrence of illnesses such as (flu, fever, infection) or other reasons that lead to the suspension of surgery should be reported in advance.
8) Arnica can be used to avoid bruising. This should be started one week to ten days before surgery. Consult with your physician for guidance on important pre-operative medications for healing and body balance, aiming for better recovery.
CARE
1) Fasting for at least 6 hours before the start of surgery.
2) Medications for hypertension and other diseases should be reported for further guidance.
3) Do not take medication containing acetylsalicylic acid (e.g., AAS, Rhonal, Buferrin, Aspirin) one week before and one week after surgery, as it increases bleeding.
4) Discontinue weight loss medications 15 days before surgery.
5) Do not smoke 15 days before and 15 days after surgery.
How about taking the opportunity to quit smoking?
POST-OPERATIVE
Pain
It is not significant, but sensitivity is individual.
Hospital Stay
Generally, 48 hours or outpatient.
First Dressings
Dressing with bandage right after surgery, which will be changed on the first day to a compression garment.
Shower
Shower 24 hours after discharge. Dry the micropore with a hairdryer.
Diet
Normal.
Physical Efforts
Are allowed, including driving.
Stitch Removal
After 7 days.
Compression Garment
Constant use, day and night, for 30 days.
Sun
Expose the abdomen to the sun only after one month.
Massage
Gentle lymphatic drainage massage is recommended for 2 months, which helps in recovery by reducing swelling more quickly and aiding in the dissolution of small bruises.
Sensitivity
There is usually a decrease in sensitivity in the area. Recovery is gradual.
WILL THIS DISAPPEAR?
Every surgery involves its own recovery period. Give it time, as your body will take care of dissipating small issues that will inevitably attract someone's attention: "Will this disappear?" Please do not hesitate to share any concerns with us. We will provide the necessary clarifications for your peace of mind.
RESULT
At first, the result of the operation is not very noticeable due to swelling. However, as the area reduces in swelling and the regions return to normal consistency, the difference becomes increasingly evident. The result typically appears around the second month post-operation.
We consider the definitive result from the fourth month, when a new photographic session is conducted for comparison of pre and post-operative (before and after). This re-evaluation may indicate the need for some touch-up, a procedure considered common in plastic surgery, especially if a large volume was to be liposuctioned. If this need arises, the touch-up should be performed after 6 months and no later than 10 months after the surgery.