What to Expect With a Liposuction Procedure

The idea of a liposuction surgery may seem simple, vacuuming fat out, and you’re all set. But the actual procedure is actually a complex process requiring precision and skill just like any other surgery. A skilled surgeon, well trained in all aspects of the liposuction procedure, is required to complete the procedure and explain the entire process to you in as much detail as you wish. Following is a basic description of liposuction surgery:

First, anesthesia is administered and tiny incisions are created in the area of the body where the fat deposits will be removed. These incisions are very small and can range from the size of a quarter to a 1/3 of an inch.

Next, comes the fat removal. For this step the surgeon will insert a thin vacuum tube, called a cannula, through the small incision and into the deep fat layer. The cannula is moved back and forth to break up the fat cells, and, with the help of an attached syringe or vacuum pump, the fat is suctioned out. Because a significant amount of blood and other bodily fluids are removed along with the fat, patients receive replacement fluids intravenously during and after the liposuction procedure.

Finishing the procedure. Depending on the preference of your physician, your incisions can either be closed with a few stitches or left open. Some doctors prefer to keep the incisions open to reduce the amount of bruising and swelling that can take place after liposuction surgery.