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LIPOSUCTION

Liposuction is the most commonly requested cosmetic procedure in the United States.  The use of liposuction is cosmetic and primarily for localized fat collections, improving body appearance.

While diet and exercise will help to reduce overall body weight it is not helpful in removing localized fat deposits.  The adult male has 15% body fat while the adult female has 30% body fat.

Areas of fat collection that may be treated with liposuction:-

Neck, upper arms, chest, back, abdomen, hips, buttocks, outer thighs, knees, calves, ankles.

Who needs a liposuction?

Liposuction is not done for very obese patients.  It is best done in patients with good health, good skin tone and elasticity.  Continuing weight gain is not a ideal situation for liposuction.  It is better to do the procedure after the weight gain has stabilized.

As with all cosmetic procedures it is best to have reasonable expectations.  High expectations are usually not achieved.

The procedure:

The basis is very simple.  Under local anesthesia after the area is numb a small canula is inserted and suction is used to remove fat.

Ultrasound waves have also been used to dissolve fat and help in easy suction.  The procedure can be done internally or externally.  It needs further perfection.

Questions patients should ask the doctor.

1. Is the doctor board certified.
2. What is the training the doctor has done.
3. How long has doctor worked and how many patients has he treated.
4. Is it done under local anesthesia or general anesthesia.
5. Has the doctor had any complication or fatalities and if so what were they and how were they treated.
6. Is the doctor prepared for emergencies.
7. Ask the doctor about photographs of surgical results.