WHAT IS IT?

It is a surgical technique using suction equipment to permanently remove unwanted fat deposits. Surgery requires 1 to 2 hours.

USUALLY DONE FOR

Thighs, hips, buttocks, fat of the abdominal wall, chin or other small areas and done for Cosmetic improvement of fat areas that won't go away without extreme dieting and may leave the rest of the body too thin.

Generally done by a Plastic surgeon in a hospital under either Local or General anaesthesia

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

Before surgery: Pre-op panel

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• The plastic surgeon marks areas to be operated on.
• Incisions (about 1-inch each) are made in suction areas.
• A suction tube, with one end attached to suction equipment, is pushed through the incision into the excess fat and moved back and forth repeatedly (20 to 30 times at each site).

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Resuctioning in some areas may be necessary.
• Phlebitis.
• Infection/Excess bleeding.

TREATMENT

SELF CARE

• Don't be concerned about small amounts of oozing at the surgical sites.
• Bathe and shower as usual.

MEDICATION

Your doctor may prescribe:

Pain relievers and Antibiotics to fight infection.

ACTIVITY

• Avoid heavy lifting for 6 weeks after surgery. Learn proper body mechanics to reduce strain.
• Don't strain while passing stools or urine.

BE ALERT FOR

• Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding in the surgical area.
• Temperature rising to 101ºF (38.3ºC).
• Signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
• Constipation.
• Swollen or painful legs.