Liposuction

Liposuction

Liposuction surgery, known by patients as lipo, is a cosmetic technique that shapes specific areas of the body by removing excess fat and improving the appearance and contour of the body silhouette. It is usually performed on the abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, arms, and neck. One of the biggest mistakes that patients make when undergoing this procedure is to assume that they will lose weight. The main objective of this surgery is to improve the aesthetic symmetry and increase one’s confidence in their self-image.

Liposuction surgery isn’t typically considered an overall weight-loss method or a weight-loss alternative. If you’re overweight, you’re likely to lose more weight through diet and exercise or through bariatric procedures. You may be a candidate for liposuction if you have too much body fat in specific spots but otherwise have stable body weight.

Pros and Cons of Liposuction Surgery

Pros:

  • A single surgical intervention may be enough to achieve the desired results.
  • It is possible to treat multiple areas in one operation.
  • Permanently removes fat cells, making it impossible for them to regenerate.
  • Results are more effective and predictable than other non-invasive treatments.

Cons:

  • It is not a procedure to treat obesity or overweight issues. It does not replace a good nutrition or exercise.
  • This technique does not eliminate cellulite or loose skin.
  • Like any surgery, it may show risks of infection and adverse reactions to anesthesia.
  • Scars and irregularities may occur due to the poor elasticity of the skin.
Pros y Contras de la Cirugía de Liposucción

Are You a Candidate for this Procedure?

If you cannot get rid of the fat accumulated in your body through diets or exercise, liposuction may be for you. In general, the future candidates should be evaluated for:

  1. If you are within your ideal weight and have firm and elastic skin.
  2. If you are in good health, without a disease or medical condition that could affect your recovery.
  3. You have good muscle tone in the areas to be treated.
  4. If you have specific and achievable goals for your body’s appearance.

What can you expect after Liposuction Surgery?

The procedure may last up to several hours, depending on the extent of fat removal. Expect some pain, swelling, and bruising after the procedure. Your surgeon may prescribe medication to help control the pain and antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection. You usually need to wear tight compression garments, which help reduce swelling, for a few weeks.

After lipo surgery, swelling typically subsides within a few weeks. By this time, the treated area should look less bulky. Within several months, expect the treated area to have a leaner appearance. It’s natural for skin to lose some firmness with aging, but liposuction results are generally long-lasting as long as you maintain your weight. If you gain weight after liposuction, your fat distribution may change.