There are various techniques available for liposuction. The basic theory of how it works is to first infuse fluid with local anaesthetic and adrenaline into the desired area, both to numb the area, as well as to minimise potential bleeding. This is then followed by suctioning out both the fluid and the fat together. This procedure is excellent for the sculpting of problem areas that remain problematic despite weight reduction. It is ideal for the reshaping of problem areas that are generally out of proportion to the rest of the body. It is not in itself, a weight reduction tool, but rather, it is a reshaping tool. Areas such as the outer hip area in women, can store fat out of proportion to the rest of the body. Sometimes upper arms are out of proportion, or the central abdominal fat. Liposuction is a safe and enduring method for the long-term reshaping of particular areas.
The most important thing to consider with regards to the final results, is the quality of the skin overlying the area of concern. If the skin is of a good quality, it will bounce back as though nothing was ever done. If the skin has been stretched and deflated a few times previously, such as with repeated weight gain followed by weight loss, or repeated pregnancies, then overzealous liposuction can lead to the presence of noticeable loose skin over the area, which can then itself become the new problem! Any possibilities of this should be determined at the first consultation, and based on that, recommendations can then be made as to whether this would be the ideal procedure, or whether an alternative procedure is more likely to achieve better results.
Like many other procedures, liposuction will show up a noticeably significant result immediately, but is always followed by some significant swelling after the procedure. A great proportion of this swelling will resolve within 3 to 6 months, but a further small amount will continue to improve for up to 12 months, at which time final results are achieved. One side of the body can swell more than the other side for various reasons. Any consideration of revision should be postponed until full results are achieved, as again, most minor issues settle spontaneously with time, with conservative management.
