Liposuction
WHAT IS LIPOSUCTION?
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that improves the body’s contour by removing exercise and diet-resistant fat deposit by using a small stainless steel tube called a cannula. The cannula is connected to a very powerful suction pump and is inserted through small skin incisions. The removal of fat is accomplished as the suction cannula creates tiny tunnels through the fatty layers. After the procedure, these tiny tunnels collapse which result in an improved body contour.
WHAT IS A TUMESCENT LIPOSUCTION?
Tumescent liposuction is an advanced technique which involves filling in of diluted solution of local anesthesia and other medications directly to the fatty layer of the skin to make it tumescent or swollen and firm prior to fat removal.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF A TUMESCENT LIPOSUCTION?
The advantages of tumescent liposuction technique are as follow:
allows the safe and efficient removal of both deep and superficial excess layers of fat
with little discomfort and reduced bruising
less bleeding
facilitates rapid healing
improved aesthetic results
WHAT LIPOSUCTION TECHNIQUE DOES DR. MONTESA USE?
Dr. Montesa uses the modified tumescent liposuction technique which is a combination of tumescent local anesthesia and some form of systemic anesthesia (local with IV sedation).
HOW IS THE PROCEDURE DONE?
Liposuction using tumescent technique is an out-patient procedure which takes about 1 to 3 hours depending on the extent of the correction. Areas of excess fat are injected with large amount of tumescent local anesthesia and some form of systemic local anesthesia with sedation. Once swollen and firm, the expanded fat compartments allow the smooth travel of cannula beneath the skin as the fats are removed.
WHAT IS RECOVERY LIKE?
There will be swelling, bruising, bleeding, burning sensation, temporary numbness and mild to moderate pain. After the surgery, it is normal for some fluid to drain from the spots where cannula was inserted. A snug elastic garment shall be worn to help control swelling and bruising, and to help the skin take on its new contours. The pain and discomfort can be controlled by the prescribed medications. Antibiotics shall be taken to avoid infection and reduce inflammation.
HOW SOON CAN A PATIENT GO BACK TO WORK?
Patients can go back to work in 1 to 2 weeks after the surgery. Strenuous activities have to be avoided for 3 to 4 weeks. Most of the bruising resolves within 3 weeks but some may remain for 6 months.
HOW SOON CAN RESULTS BE SEEN?
Significant improvement can be seen immediately. More improvements can be seen after 3 weeks when most of the swelling has resolved. The final result will be evident at 3 to 6 months when any persistent mild swelling has finally disappeared.
WHAT OTHER PROCEDURE IS COMMONLY DONE SIMULTANEOUS WITH LIPOSUCTION?
Depending on the extent of the correction, common surgical procedures done with it are tummy tuck and breast surgeries.
WHO ARE THE CANDIDATES FOR THIS PROCEDURE?
Good candidates for this procedure are those who are generally healthy, emotionally and psychologically stable, with realistic expectations who want to sculpt their bodies and get rid off their diet- and exercise-resistant fats. Candidates are advised to disclose their medical history, illness and medications during the consultation.
HOW LONG WILL THE RESULTS LAST?
With sensible diet and exercise, the results can stay for a long time and can be permanent. But for those who eat more than they use with exercise, the extra energy will be put away as fats.
IS TUMESCENT LIPOSUCTION A SAFE TECHNIQUE?
Like all surgeries, liposuction both has it risks and benefits. However, with tumescent liposuction, this procedure is remarkably safe with very rare side effects and complications. These may include minor skin irregularity, lumpiness, loose skin, numbness, dimpling, and infections.