Liposuction
Weight Loss Surgery
Liposuction is a surgical procedure which removes fat from your body.
Here's what happens:
- A substance is pumped into the area from where fat is to be removed. This softens the fat cells.
- Then a tube is introduced into the area and moved around to loosen the fat.
- The loosened fat is then sucked out of the body through the tube.
- Due to the internal movements which are required to loosen the fat, the body remains bruised
and swollen for about a fortnight the operation, and patients are advised to rest and to wear
a tight corset until they recover.
No quick fix
At present, no more than about 4 pounds of fat can safely be
removed in any one operation, so a patient with a lot of excess
fat, will need several operations. What's more, liposuction does
not remove cellulite.
Health risks
- Infection, blood poisoning and complications from the anaesthetic.
- Possible complications from removing too much fat. These can be serious.
- Possible internal damage from the tubes.
- Possible skin numbness resulting from damage to nerve endings.
- Possible anemia resulting from bleeding and bruising.
- Possible lumpy appearance if fat is not removed evenly.
- Possible puffiness of the skin if fluid isn't drained properly.
Cost
This depends on the surgeon, the exact nature of the operation and
the degree of post-operative care. Expect to pay anything between
$2,000 and $10,000.
Verdict
Liposuction is not a quick-fix solution to a weight problem. It is
a serious procedure and should not be considered without close
consultation with your doctor and a proper examination of all
other options. Even if you decide to proceed, please exercise the
greatest possible care in your choice of surgeon. Furthermore,
unless it is combined with a sensible program of dietary
modification and exercise, any benefits incurred will be
short-term.
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