Liposuction

Liposuction

Liposuction is a procedure that utilizes a tool resembling a tube with a diameter of 3-6 millimeters. It is inserted through small incisions beneath the skin to suction out unwanted fat.

It is important to note that liposuction is not a method for weight loss but rather an effective way to target specific areas of fat. Individuals considering this surgical procedure should have good overall health, elastic skin, and realistic expectations.

Surgical Procedure:

Modern liposuction techniques minimize blood loss. If the amount of fat and fluid suctioned does not exceed 6,000 milliliters, blood transfusion is usually unnecessary.

The surgery can be performed under general anesthesia or with the use of targeted numbing medications, depending on the volume and location of the fat to be removed.

Prior to the procedure, the surgeon will mark the areas that require fat suctioning. An anesthetic or numbing medication is then administered.

Subsequently, small incisions are made in the skin, typically equal to the size of the suctioning tube, with at least two openings per targeted area to ensure even fat removal. Adjacent areas may share incision sites.

After the surgery, the patient is typically fitted with a compression garment or bandage for approximately two months. The treated areas may exhibit bruising, which typically fades within about two weeks.

Possible Complications:

•              Bleeding

•              Infection

•              Abnormal skin pigmentation (hyperpigmentation) in the treated area

•              Uneven skin surface

•              Excessive fat removal (overcorrection)

•              Insufficient fat removal (undercorrection)

•              Scarring around the incision sites, which serve as entry points for the suctioning tube

This information was written by Dr. Narathip Songthong, a board-certified surgeon specializing in aesthetic surgery at Vibhavadi Hospital.

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