
What is Liposuction?
Liposuction is a surgical aesthetic procedure to remove unwanted fat deposits in the body. This procedure uses thin cannulas (tubes) and vacuum technology to suction and shape fat in specific areas of the body. Liposuction is performed to correct body contours in people who are disfigured due to localized fat deposits. This procedure is not generally considered as a method for weight loss, but rather for body contouring.
In Which Situations Is Liposuction Needed?
Liposuction is generally preferred for the following conditions:
- Regional Fat Accumulations: It can be performed for aesthetic purposes in people with fat accumulation in certain parts of the body (abdomen, hips, buttocks, hips, legs, arms, etc.). Such fat deposits may not be removed by diet and exercise.
- Shaping Body Contours: People who have difficulty in achieving the desired form due to unbalanced fat distribution of the body can achieve smooth lines with liposuction.
- Genetic Fat Distribution: Due to genetic factors, some areas may have intense fat accumulation. This may not change despite lifestyle changes and liposuction can provide a permanent solution in these areas.
- Hormonal Changes: It can be applied to reduce fat deposits caused by hormonal changes such as age, pregnancy and menopause.
- Healthy Individuals: Healthy individuals whose body mass index (BMI) is within normal limits, but who complain of excess fat in certain areas may be suitable candidates for liposuction.
Which Areas Is Liposuction Applied?
Liposuction can be applied in different parts of the body. The most commonly used areas are as follows:
- Abdomen: Fat accumulated especially in the lower abdomen.
- Hips and Buttocks: Fat deposits around the hips commonly in women.
- Back: Fat deposits, especially in the upper back, around the shoulders.
- Legs: Fat deposits around the inner leg, outer leg and knee.
- Chin and Neck: Fat on the double chin, cheeks or neck.
- Arm and Back Area: Armpits and upper arms.
- Gelatin Fat (Lipoedema): Sometimes liposuction is also used to treat excess fat accumulation in the body.
Liposuction Types and Techniques
Liposuction can be performed with various techniques. The most commonly used techniques are as follows:
- Tumescent Liposuction: In this technique, liquid is injected into the area to facilitate the absorption of fat. The liquid softens the fat and makes it easier to remove.
- Ultrasound Assisted Liposuction (UAL): Ultrasound waves break down fat cells, allowing fat to be absorbed more easily. It is generally used in more dense fatty areas.
- Laser Assisted Liposuction (SmartLipo): Laser energy breaks down fat cells, resulting in less bleeding. The laser also tightens the skin.
- Vaser Liposuction: A technique that breaks down fat using ultrasonic sound waves and can be applied in more sensitive areas.
- Hybrid Liposuction: It is a method that is a combination of other techniques and can use several techniques together to achieve the best results.
Liposuction Surgery Process
The liposuction procedure usually takes place in the following steps:
- Preliminary Preparation: After a preliminary evaluation, the doctor chooses the appropriate method of anesthesia. Generally, local anesthesia or general anesthesia can be used.
- Fat Removal: Liposuction is performed by softening the fat deposits with liquid injected into the targeted areas and then suctioning them with cannulas (thin tubes). Small incisions are usually made during the procedure.
- Duration of Surgery: Liposuction procedure usually takes 1-3 hours. This time may vary depending on the area to be treated and the type of procedure.
- Scars and Stitches: Since the incisions made during liposuction are very small, there are usually no obvious scars. However, stitches may be required in some cases.
Recovery Process After Liposuction
The recovery process after liposuction may differ from person to person. However, the following steps are generally followed:
- Mild Swelling and Bruises: There may be swelling and bruising in the areas for the first few days. This situation decreases within a few weeks.
- Compression Garment: After liposuction, patients are recommended to wear a compression garment to reduce swelling in the area and speed up the healing process.
- Pain and Discomfort: There may be mild pain and discomfort. The doctor may prescribe medication to control the pain.
- Return to Social Life: Most patients can return to their normal activities within 1-2 weeks, but it is usually recommended to wait 4-6 weeks for more challenging exercises and physical activities.
- Results: Results are usually fully visible within 1-3 months, but the skin tightening process can take up to 6 months.
Following liposuction, adopting a healthy lifestyle can help to maintain the results in the long term.