Liposuction

Lipoplasty also better known as Fat modeling or Liposuction is a surgical process which envisages the removal of excess flab or fat with the help of suction. The actual process is not simple as care is to be exercised to remove only the excess flab and not to disturb any tissues or worse damage the capillaries or blood vessels in the region. Care is taken to not disturb the fluid balance of the body.

Liposuction or Lipoplasty is performed on the flanks,back,outer thighs,inner thighs, knees, abdomen, hips,upper arms,chin and the cheeks. Lipoplasty is most often practiced on women since the fat in women are sub-cutaneous and outside the body wall. The superfluous nature of fat deposition in women are more convenient for removal by liposuction causing the least discomfort to both the patient and surgeon.

Liposuction is also performed in men but the procedure is more complicated since most fat accumulates on the tummy and is not subcutaneous. Lipoplasty in males are performed for Gynecomastia or development of breasts in men.

Lipoplasty or liposuction can be performed by different methods depending upon the site where the procedure is to be done. The usual methods is Ultrasonic assisted liposuction. The procedure envisages the softening of the fat deposition by ultrasound followed by suction which removes the liquefied fat easily. Other methods includes Tumescent liposuction and Power assisted liposuction.

The risks associated with liposuction are many and can cause serious complication. It includes formation of stretch marks,hyper-pigmentation of the skin, puffiness, formation of loose skin. More serious complication include risk of secondary infections, fluid loss and dehydration,pulmonary embolism, accidental organ damage, excessive bleeding due to ligaturing of blood vessels etc. Other minor side effects commonly encountered include edema, numbness, burning sensation and itching. Most post operative complication can be prevented by following the doctors advice and maintaining a proper diet.