Are you frustrated with problem areas on your body that just won’t respond to diet and exercise no matter what you do? You’re not alone. This is a common issue that leaves many people wondering if there’s anything that can be done. The answer is yes – liposuction. This popular outpatient procedure is used to reshape targeted areas of your body that diet and exercise have not helped. The most common areas are the outer thighs and hips, along with the face, neck, stomach, buttocks and upper arms. It’s important to note, however, that liposuction isn’t effective in treating obesity and will not get rid of stretch marks or cellulite.
How It Works
Liposuction involves making small incisions and using a tiny tube called a cannula to break up stubborn fat under the skin and suction it out. In some cases, local anesthesia is used, and you may be given a sedative to help you relax. If you’re having fat extracted from a large area on your body, general anesthesia may be used. The incisions that are made before the procedure are tiny and typically don’t require stitches. Mild bruising will still occur, but it will subside after 7 to 10 days.
After the Procedure
Once the treatment is complete, the area of your body that was treated will be wrapped firmly to minimize bruising, swelling and pain. For a few days following the procedure, fluid may drain from your incision. To reduce the risk of infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics, and he or she may recommend that you wear a compression garment or wrap for a few weeks after treatment. You should be able to move around immediately following the procedure once the anesthesia has worn off. As soon as you feel comfortable, it’s possible for you to return to your day-to-day activities and to go back to work within a few weeks. Keep in mind that the road to complete recovery may take as much as a few weeks. Your skin will feel a bit loose at first, but it will tighten over the coming months, depending on your skin’s elasticity.
Liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure with limited recovery time, making it an ideal choice for many patients looking to get rid of stubborn fat that doesn’t respond to diet and exercise.
Are you interested in learning more about the benefits of liposuction?
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