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Liposuction


Liposuction is defined as the removal of fat from deposits beneath the skin using a hollow stainless steel tube (called a cannula) with the assistance of a powerful vacuum. It can be accomplished either with the use of general anaesthesia, with heavy IV sedation, or totally by local anaesthesia. Liposuction is a fat removal procedure that aims to eradicate excessive stubborn fat from these hard to shift areas. It should be thought of as a sculpting procedure that can change the contours of your body or face.

What areas is liposuction suitable for?

The best candidates for liposculpture are those with stubborn areas of fat which are resistant to diet or exercise.  This could include the tummy, buttocks, chin, arms, knees etc.  A number of areas may be treated in the same session, according to your needs and requirements.  A consultation with a surgeon will help you identify what sort of outcome you could expect.

Stubborn fat deposits which cannot be removed by diet or exercise usually occur in areas such as the stomach, thighs, buttocks, sides, back, chest or chin. Liposuction isn’t an overall weight loss procedure, but enables you to target specific problem areas.

Is it suitable for me?

This is a question that can only be answered after a full consultation with your plastic or reconstructive surgeon. Determining factors are your age and health.

In general, the best candidates for liposuction are individuals who:

  • Are in good health
  • Are within 25 lbs. of their ideal weight
  • Are bothered by these fatty areas, and are motivated to get rid of these problem areas once and for all
  • Have had no previous surgery in the area where liposuction is desired
  • Have firm, elastic skin
  • Do not have frequent fluctuations in weight
  • Desire reshaping and not weight loss
  • Are psychologically stable
  • Do not smoke
  • Exercise regularly
  • Are accepting of any limitations, as discussed with the surgeon
  • Are well informed about the procedure

Expectations need to be realistic

What does the surgery involve?

Through a tiny incision, a narrow tube (cannula) is inserted and used to vacuum the fat layer that lies deep beneath the skin. The cannula is pushed then pulled through the fat layer, breaking up the fat cells and suctioning them out by a vacuum pump or a large syringe.

The incision sites will be carefully chosen so that scarring is as inconspicuous as possible. Naturally fluid is lost along with the fat. To prevent shock, patients are carefully monitored and given intravenous fluids during and immediately after liposuction surgery.

The procedure will take from one hour to 1.5 hours to complete depending on the extent of the procedure. Many patients are able to go home on the day of the surgery but some remain in the hospital for one or two days.

What happens after surgery?

After liposuction, there will be a number of scars of about a quarter of an inch left. As with most scars, given time they will generally fade and become virtually undetectable.

It is common for blood stained fluid to leak from these small scars for 24 – 48 hours following liposuction.

Bruising and swelling can be present for 2 – 4 weeks dependent upon the quantity of fat that is removed. Any discomfort or pain can be relieved by painkillers and gentle walking. A supportive garment or tight fitting pants or cycling shorts will be worn day and night for 3 weeks and after that for a further 3 weeks during the day. Scars will be small and will fade in time, and you will have follow-up visits in the months after surgery to check on your progress.

 

For further information on any surgical procedures or
to book a consultation, please contact us at:


Fitzwilliam Clinic, 70-72 Lisburn Road, Belfast
Tel: 028 9032 3888
Email: info@fitzwilliamclinic.com