Los Angeles Medical Equipment

Posts Tagged ‘Enhancement’

Suction-Assisted Lipectomy (SAL) or liposuction is a generic term for the removal of fat utilizing a vacuum that creates negative pressure applied through a cannula. SAL has been safely performed over the last 10 to 15 years. It is a safe and reliable way to remove unfavorable figure imperfections due to localized fat deposits.

Fat removal has several approaches. The techniques vary as to the level at which fat is removed, the type of anesthesia and instrumentation employed. In most cases is done in the operating room under general anesthesia, but the operation can be done under local anesthesia with intravenous sedation.

The procedure itself takes between 1 to 2 hours to perform, but can be longer depending upon the patient. There is often some surface bruising, and the patient can expect moderate discomfort for the first 2-5 days with a return to a normal activity pattern within two weeks. For two months after the operation, a surgical compression garment is worn to reduce surface irregularities.

Liposuction lends itself best to removing localized fat deposits, which occur in several areas of the body. In females, typical areas are: Inner and outer thighs, the upper buttocks or hips and the area surrounding the umbilicus. In males, typical areas are: hips (love handles), the anterior abdominal area and around the back of the arms over the triceps muscle distribution.

The risks and complications of liposuction are those of any surgery; that is, bleeding, infection, and nerve damage. Surface irregularities associated with the procedure itself are the most commonly encountered complications. Another complication to suction lipectomy (which is associated with any cosmetic surgery procedure) is failure to meet the patient’s expectations. The most advisable course of action for those contemplating the procedure is to have a thorough consultation with the prospective doctor. In doing this the plastic surgery patient can acquire the appropriate pre-operative understanding with his/her selected cosmetic surgeon.

In summary, liposuction has proven to be a useful tool for figure enhancement over the last 10 years. It is especially valuable to those who have localized fat deposits causing figure irregularities, which are refractory to weight loss and/or exercise. It often allows those patients who have lost weight and achieved good physical condition through weight loss or exercise to achieve the figure appearance they desire. As in all procedures, it is wise to have an individualized consultation with a qualified, board certified plastic surgeon to gain the best understanding of this cosmetic surgery procedure.