Liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic surgical procedures for both men and women, and for a good reason. This treatment can be performed on almost any area of the body. By removing unwanted pockets of fat, the body’s overall contour is greatly improved. The advantages of the procedure are many; however, patients considering liposuction should still be aware of the pros and cons of the surgery.

How Liposuction Works

The overall concept of liposuction is the removal of fat from a specific area of the body to create a more contoured shape. Liposuction is mainly used for cosmetic purposes and can reshape trouble spots, including the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, hips, calves, arms, and back. The liposuction procedure involves an experienced provider making a small incision and inserting a hollow tube, called a cannula, into the deep fat layers. As the cannula moves, the fat cells are broken apart and removed with suction.

The best candidates for liposuction are those who are of average weight and in relatively good shape. With a healthy body and firm skin, liposuction can provide you with a long-lasting solution to trouble spots.

What Are the Pros of Liposuction?

Minimally Invasive

Unlike other body contouring treatments, liposuction is minimally invasive and can be completed under IV sedation. Treatments are also accompanied by fewer risks and a shorter operating time. The length of your procedure will vary depending on the technique used and the number of areas being treated.

Scarring Is Minimal 

Because liposuction utilizes a series of tiny incisions, subsequent scarring is considerably smaller than those that result from other invasive body contouring treatments.

May Aid In Weight Loss

While liposuction is not considered weight-loss surgery, the procedure can encourage patients to maintain a healthier lifestyle and facilitate future weight loss.

Results Are Permanent

Liposuction offers patients a permanent way to remove unwanted fat. Once removed, the treated fat will not regenerate or grow back. That being said, patients must maintain a consistent weight to prevent new fat cells from developing.

Recovery Time is Minimal

While the recovery time will vary from patient to patient, in most cases, patients are back to light activity within 2-3 days of the procedure and can resume work in as little as one week.

Improved Self Esteem 

Liposuction improves the body’s contour, enabling clothing to fit better. This can have a dramatic impact on a person’s body image and self-esteem.

Medical Conditions Liposuction Can Treat

Many people who choose to undergo liposuction believe that the benefits far outweigh the risks.

Liposuction can help treat certain medical conditions.

These conditions may include:

• Remove Lipomas – Certain fatty tumors known as lipomas are typically harmless, but they can be bothersome. Liposuction can remove lipomas successfully.
• Gynecomastia Relief – A condition in which men develop fatty breast tissue is identified as gynecomastia. Liposuction is one of the fastest and most effective ways to treat this embarrassing condition.
• Reduce Excessive Sweating – Liposuction can reduce excessive sweating and chafing in the armpits and thighs. It does so by targeting sweat glands and reducing the body’s ability to produce sweat in these areas.
• Treats Lipodystrophy Syndrome – Excessive fat in certain areas of the body and not others can disturb your metabolism, causing peripheral insulin resistance or hypertriglyceridemia.

What Are the Cons of Liposuction?

Every procedure has risks

Anytime a person is put under anesthesia, there is a possible risk of bleeding, infection, or an adverse reaction.

Severe bruising

Minor bruising is expected after surgery. It will typically take a whole week to disappear.

Numbness

It is common to experience minimal numbness around the treated area. This is usually temporary and will fade over time.

Inflammation

Expect the affected areas to swell for at least the first week after the procedure. It may take up to six months for the inflammation to subside.

Anaphylaxis

This is what happens when the body experiences an allergic reaction. Be sure to forewarn the doctor of any known allergies.

Burns

Movement from the cannula can cause friction burns to the skin and the nerves.

Thrombophlebitis

This is when a blood clot forms in a vein. It may lead to inflammation or more severe complications.

Infection

With any surgery, infection is a risk. Infections are usually treated with a course of antibiotics.

Internal punctures

This is rare; however, the cannula can puncture an internal organ. This can cause internal bleeding and serious complications.

Pulmonary edema

If the body rejects the special fluid that was injected, it can accumulate in the lungs.

Contact Us If You’re Considering Liposuction

There are many incredible benefits from liposuction, which is why the treatment is so popular. Schedule a consultation for more information on liposuction and if the treatment will help you achieve your aesthetic goals. If you’re considering liposuction or another fat removal treatment, contact Hinsdale Vein & Laser today.