Liposuction will not improve cellulite which is the
appearance of dimpled irregular skin commonly seen in the buttocks and
the thighs. It has no effect on stretch marks. It is not a treatment for
obesity. Although it is a permanent removal of fat cells it is not able
to remove all the fat cells therefore unless dietary and exercise habits
change liposuction will not permanently correct obesity. It is important
to have realistic expectations prior to proceeding with this surgery and
we would advise that you contact Dr Belt’s
rooms and his staff can answer any specific questions you may have and
arrange for a quote and information regarding the procedure to be sent
to you.
FAQs
What Type Of Anaesthetic Is Used ?
Dr Belt recommends that the surgery is performed under a General Anaesthetic
administered by a specialist anaesthetist. Exceptions to this are very
small isolated deposits but the surgery can be performed under either sedation
with Local Anaesthetic infiltration or for very small areas under Local
Anaesthetic alone.
Can Other Procedures Be Used At The Same Time ?
Liposuction is a useful adjunctive procedure which can be used with any
number of procedures. It is most frequently used in combination with abdominoplasty
with liposuction to the flanks or love handle areas. It is also used for
facelifts particularly to the area under the chin. Not all procedures are
amenable to liposuction being performed at the same time particularly as
this may undermine the blood supply to a particular area and increase the
potential risks.
What Happens After The Procedure ?
Most patients will have the surgery performed as a day patient. This is
not the case if more than three litres of fat is being removed.
In day case procedures, generally the patients go home after a few hours.
Most patients report that pain and discomfort are minor for the first few
days. Local anaesthetic is still in the wounds and this will give some
pain relief.
Paracetamol is usually sufficient pain relief but you will be discharged
with some stronger analgesia (pain killers) in case you get breakthrough
pain. Plan a very quiet week after the surgery.
A tailor made tight fitting elastic support garment will be provided and
this reduces the swelling in the treated areas and should be maintained
for up to six weeks.
It is normal to expect some leakage of clear or even blood stained fluid
from the small incisions. I would encourage massaging to the effected areas
after one to two weeks. This can be performed by the patient themselves,
friends or a professionals
Most people return to work within a week or two of surgery and light activities
can be resumed within two to three weeks but normal activities may take
up to six weeks.
What Are The Potential Risks ?
These can be broken down into both general and specific risks. The specific
risks include bruising, swelling, uneven or asymmetrical results notably
rippling, dimpling and loose skin, collections of fluid or blood occurring
under the skin. Skin discolouration which is generally temporary but may
become permanent. Permanent loss of sensation is unusual though some patients
do find that they have some reduced sensation for the first few months
following the operation.
What Costs Are Involved ?
These include Dr Belt’s fee, the theatre and day fee, a specialist
anaesthetist fee as well as the costs of a support garment.
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