Introduction

Suction assisted lipectomy or liposuction is one of the most popular means of body contouring techniques in cosmetic surgery. This method removes fat pockets that one is not able to remove after performing vigorous exercise or dieting. So, liposuction helps to achieve desired body shape by removing fat deposits that are present between the muscle and skin. This body contouring procedure permanently removes fatty tissues and the results are everlasting if the patient maintains his/her weight.

Ideal candidates for liposuction surgery

Ideal candidates for liposuction surgery

Non-smoker and non-alcoholic

Must be above 18 years of age

Those who want to achieve a sleeker body contour

Those who have a positive outlook and realistic expectations with the procedure

Those who are not suffering from any health condition and life-threatening disease

Those who are not overweight but suffering from fat deposits in specific areas like cheeks, arms, buttocks, thighs, tummy etc.

Note: It is not a treatment for obesity and does not help to remove stretch marks and cellulite. One must also remember that if someone puts on weight after the procedure, then the results are not long-lasting.

The Techniques used for Liposuction

For liposuction surgery in Delhi at Aestiva Clinic we have a number of important modifications to the standard suction-assisted liposuction available such as UAL (ultrasound-assisted liposuction), PAL (power-assisted liposuction), VASER, and laser-assisted liposuction.

1. UAL (Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction)

In this technique, the fat is liquefied before removal by targeting the fat cells with the ultrasound waves. So, this method uses sound energy waves that rupture the fat cells walls, and then the liquefied fat is suctioned out. It allows more precise removal of fat deposits and increases skin contraction.

2. Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL)

In this method, a special cannula that creates tiny and rapid vibrations is used to break the fat cells, and remove this fat out of the patient's body. This procedure helps the surgeon to control the liposuction process, and this helps them to perform the fat removal procedure precisely. This technique helps the surgeon to remove more fat in a short period of time and helps achieve better results, and faster recovery. The specialized cannula used in this procedure allows smaller incision and vibrating tips of the PAL make this procedure safe because of its precise and smaller motions. This allows the surgeon to target only the specific area and does not cause any damage to the surrounding body tissues.

3. VASER (Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance) liposuction

This is a new generation liposuction technique that crafts and reshapes the body according to one's dream and desire. It uses ultrasound energy to melt the fat cells, and then a thin tube cannula is used to remove the fat. This process is effective in removing larger volumes and denser minimal fat. The method uses a less aggressive approach, hence, the recovery is faster. During the treatment, tumescent liquid is injected into the body area. The vibration loosens the fat cells and emulsifies the tumescent liquid that is injected into the target area. As a result, the emulsification process starts, and with the help of a small cannula, the liquid and fat cells are removed. The saline used in this process causes less bruising, bleeding, and protects the other body tissues.

4. Laser-Assisted Liposuction

This technique combines adipocyte disruption with laser and then removal of the dissolved fat with the help of cannula. In this method, the tumescent liquid is injected in the target area, and in the next step, a laser fiber is placed beneath the skin that helps to melt the fat, and then suction cannula removes this melted fat. Thus, the method is gentle compared to the traditional liposuction method, and usually, there is less swelling and bruising with laser-assisted liposuction. The heat delivered by the laser also stimulates the creation of new collagen and helps to make the skin smoother and tightened.

Procedure

Markings

Prior to liposuction, a preoperative marking is done while the patient is in an erect position. In patients undergoing total body liposuction or contouring, marking can be done one day prior. Areas to be suctioned are marked with a circle.

Types of Anaesthesia

Small volume liposuction can be done under local anaesthesia with mild sedation. Large volume liposuction requires general anaesthesia.

The procedure involves injecting anaesthetic solutions into the body to facilitate fat removal and decrease post-op pain.

Suctioning of Fat

Special cannulas are used to aspirate the fat from the problem areas via small incisions.

Incisions are placed in hidden areas and are approximately 3mm to 4mm in length. These marks generally fade away with time.

The fat cells are removed permanently by liposuction procedure, but one can gain back weight as the new fat cells can accumulate in the body areas. Hence, after the surgery, one must include lean protein, vegetables, fruits, juices, and low-fat dairy products in their food and must exercise regularly.

Post Operative Care

Dr. Mrinalini Sharma, a liposuction surgeon in Delhi at Aestiva Clinic suggests her patients to wear a compression garment post procedure, which is customized as per the area. Patients can be discharged on the same day and can return to normal activities within a week. Light exercises are allowed after a few weeks. Postoperative swelling and bruising occurs and subsides over a week to a fortnight. The final aesthetic result will be visible within a few months.