Liposuction: The Basics

Liposuction is the process by which fat is removed from the body surgically with a suction pump. Houston Liposuction can vacuum out excess body weight that is localized in an unwanted area. The main areas that benefit from liposuction are the hips, buttocks, thighs and belly. It can also be done on the neck and backs of arms. Women generally have it performed on the thighs and abdomen and men on the flanks and abdomen.

Liposuction is not an alternative for good diet and exercise. Once the procedure has been performed, it is necessary to have a lifestyle that includes a good diet and exercise to keep the fat off. Also, candidates should be over 18 years and in good health. A person with heart circulation problems, diabetes or any infection would not be a good candidate for liposuction. Also, a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty should not be done in conjunction with liposuction as this adds higher risk.

Preparing for Liposuction Surgery

The board-certified doctors for cosmetic surgery Houston generally use tumescent liposuction. They will give guidelines for preparing for surgery. Basically, stop smoking, preferably for several months before the procedure but at least for two weeks. Also, stop medications that interfere with blood clotting such as aspirin and vitamin E. Tell the surgeon if there are allergies to any medications.

Planning in advance before recovery time means having any medications needed on hand as well as taking time off from work or school. Do not shave the place where the procedure will be performed for 24 hours before surgery. Also, neither food nor drink should be taken after midnight the night before surgery. Anesthesia is used during liposuction, so it is best to have someone ready to drive the patient home afterwards as they will feel weak and be drowsy.

After the Procedure

There will be minimal discomfort in the form of slight pain and swelling and there should be no heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for a while. Usually, a compression garment or a girdle is worn for a few weeks to give comfort and support in case of swelling. Walking for a short time is good for circulation and can be alternated with resting. As with any surgical procedure, the patient needs to be checked on a regular basis to make sure they are healing properly. This is usually done at one, two, three and six month intervals.

Recovery time varies for different people. Two weeks is usually enough to get back to regular activities. A full recovery may take a few months. Plastic surgery Houston is well qualified to give the best results for liposuction. This procedure is not without risks, but they will be clearly explained and greatly reduced by a good surgeon.