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Liposuction

Liposuction is a procedure designed to re-shape the body by removing unwanted pockets of fat to create a more sculpted look. There are some fat deposits which you may find almost impossible to get rid of, no matter how vigorous your exercise routine. Liposuction is used to remove this fat, which exercise and diet cannot.
Virtually any area of fat accumulation can be treated with liposuction, which is particularly effective in the flank and hip areas (love handles). Liposuction can also be used to reduce fatty deposits over the upper and lower abdomen and also in Gynaecomastia (male breasts). Women most commonly wish to remove ‘saddlebags’ from their outer thighs, but treatment of buttocks, and knees are also commonly performed.


The Procedure

During surgery, tiny incisions are made at the site where fat is to be removed, and a solution is infused to provide anaesthesia, reduce bleeding and improve fat extraction. A small suction cannula is inserted under the skin into the fat layer, to extract fatty deposits. Dr Tew uses various sizes and dimensions of extraction cannulae, hollow, tubular instruments with holes at one end to trap the fat. Liposuction usually requires a general anaesthetic and is usually performed as a day only procedure.
The ideal candidate for liposuction is close to their ideal weight. This procedure is intended for changing body shape where fat deposits are unable to be shifted by conventional methods. A patient must also be in good medical condition to heal and resist infection. Liposuction is not a substitute for weight loss by proper diet and exercise.

Image by Jené Stephaniuk

The Risks

Early sequelae of surgery include bleeding from the wounds, bruising, fluid under the skin, and numbness to mention a few. Later complications include loose skin, rippling, uneven healing, and persistent numbness.

 

The Recovery

Recovery will take about 2 weeks, the use of compression garments is required for at least 6 weeks. Some patients use the garment for many months to encourage the skin to retract evenly.

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