What does liposuction surgery involve?

Answer 1

There are several different types of Liposuction, each with their own distinct procedures. The basic technique of liposuction is inherent to all of them, however. During the liposuction procedure, tiny incisions are made in the area to be treated and a cannula, or metal tube, is inserted. The cannula is connected at one end to a suction vacuum. When the cannula is moved back and forth under the skin, it sucks out fat cells. Before the liposuction is performed, fluid is injected under the skin to replenish what will be lost, provide anesthesia, and to contract blood vessels. The amount of fluid injected depends on the various methods of liposuction. During what is called the super-wet technique, the amount of fluid injected is similar to the amount of fat that is to be removed. This technique typically requires general anesthesia or at least IV sedation. The tumescent technique seems to be the most popular technique available right now. This involves fluid injection of up to three times the amount of fluid to be removed. Because of this large amount of fluid, the skin and tissues become firm or tumescent. This procedure is usually performed on patients who need only a local anesthetic because the amount of anesthetic in the solution is enough to curb the pain during surgery and sometimes up to a day following surgery. Ultrasound-Assisted Lipoplasty, or UAL, uses ultrasonic waves to liquefy fat cells to be removed. This technique cuts down on blood loss and speeds recovery. However, there seems to be a slightly increased risk of organ damage with this procedure, as well as a risk of burns from the ultrasonic pulses. Power-Assisted Lipoplasty uses machine power to operate the cannula. The cannula used in this procedure oscillates, or works in circles. This is a relatively new procedure and is still rather controversial. Some surgeons (as well as the manufacturers of the device) swear that it works quite well, while other surgeons are not as sure. There are not yet any conclusive studies published on its advantages and disadvantages.

Answer 2

Liposuction is actually a simple procedure. It basically removes fat in between skin and muscles, which allows improving the body's contour. The important tool for this simple procedure is a cannula, which is a tube that is attached to a suction pump that pulls the unneeded fat in between the skin and muscle.

Answer 3

Some of the risks involved with undergoing abdominal liposuction surgery include: infections, fat embolisms, puncture wounds to an internal organ, swelling and burns. To minimize the risks, make sure you are working with an credentialed and experienced cosmetic surgeon and that the operation takes place in a hospital or sterile medical facility.