Liposuction

What is liposuction?

In a liposuction operation fat cells are removed from previously determined areas of the body that are stubborn and do not respond to diet and exercise. 70 to 80% of the fat cells are removed depending on the method used.

What happens in an initial consultation?

The various possibilities are explained to the patient. Liposuction is only for reducing problem areas that cannot be treated using other means or that do not respond to other means.

Who is a good candidate for liposuction?

Patients who have excessive fat in the lower abdominal region, around the waist or who have so-called saddle thighs are good candidates. It is mostly women who have problems losing the fat in these stubborn areas despite exercise and diet.

What do successful results look like?

Successful results are achieved by using liposuction to remove excess tissue causing the saddle thighs for example while considering the harmony of the rest of the body. Doing so results in a 95% flat transition between the treated and untreated areas and an aesthetically pleasing result. This does not apply to each and every patient.

What happens during a liposuction operation?

The operating physician first marks the problem areas and discusses these areas and the operation with the patient. The patient is then put under anesthesia and the problem areas treated with tumecsent solution – a saline solution mixed with anesthetic is injected into the fat tissue.
Preparation takes 25 to 30 minutes. After preparation we use modern equipment to do the liposuction. The patient is usually put in various positions during one operation.

How long does the operation take?

This depends on the area and amount of tissue to be treated. No more than 4 liters can be removed in one operation. The operation usually takes about 2-3 hours.

How safe is liposuction?

There is little risk as long as the performing physician is experienced.

When will I be fit and ready to get back to daily life again?

It takes about 3 to 4 weeks for the patient to get back on their feet. During the first 8 days after the operation the patient must not do anything physically strenuous. Even though the incision for the canulla is small, the operated area is not. This is because of internal wounds. There will be bruising. Pain after the operation is usually not that intense. 80 to 90% of bruising subsides through the body’s natural processes after about three weeks. The patient also feels much fitter at this time.

How long do results last?

Results last a long time. No matter how much fat is removed or from where, 20% of fat cells remain. This can lead to fat regain if the patient does not pay attention to their diet. Liposuction does not mean that the operated area is safe from getting fat again.

What areas of the body can be treated using liposuction?

We only offer liposuction on the upper and lower abdominal region, waistline, saddle bags and the inner thighs. Areas like the calves, upper section and back of the thighs and the upper arms are only treated in special cases. Liposuction is also applicable in the region between the chin and neck.

Is liposuction always possible?

Liposuction is not always possible in areas where fat is unevenly distributed, there is lymphatic illness or there is chronic inflammation.

How bad is the pain during and after the operation?

There is little pain after the operation. Discomfort after excessive movement is to be expected.

Does an inpatient stay have to be scheduled?

We insist that the patient stay for two days and one night so that we can supervise them for the first 36 hours after the operation.

What precautions should be taken after the operation?

Extreme movement is to be avoided after the operation. It is principally a matter of normal healing. Duties like looking after children should not be undertaken right after the operation. The patient has to wear a special compression garment for 6-8 weeks following the procedure.

Are there any risks or side effects?

Liposuction is not without its risks especially when working in the abdominal area. A false move past the fatty layer into the collogen could result in a perforation of the abdominal wall which could lead to the poisoning of the inner organs and infections that must be corrected with a more extensive operation. Hernia is the second risk. It is hard to see and diagnose and can also lead to a perforation and internal infection.

Will there be any visible scarring?

Only small incisions are made for liposuction. Our method employs a 3-4 mm incision which normally does not leave any visible scarring.

What types of anesthesia are used and will I have to stay overnight?

We use general anesthesia with 80% of our liposuction treatments. The other 20% of cases it is a matter of a smaller area and brave patients, and so only local anesthetic is used.

Can I see before and after photos?

Of course we can show you before and after photos.