Liposuction

Liposuction involves surgical loosening and removal of fat from an area by using long or short metal tubular instruments called cannulas connected to a vacuum suction machine. The suction cannulas are usually made of stainless steel. The tips are blunt. The cannulas have 1 to 5 holes near the tip on one side or on different sides.Liposuction, also called Suction-assisted lipectomy, is a surgical procedure performed by using a hollow metal surgical instrument known as a cannula that is inserted through small skin incision(s) and is passed back and forth through the area of fatty deposit. The cannula is attached to a vacuum source, which provides the suction needed to remove the fatty tissue. In some situations, a special cannula may be used that emits ultrasonic energy, laser energy, or a jet of water, to break down fatty deposits. Depending on your needs, your surgeon may recommend suction-assisted lipectomy alone, or in combination with another technique. There are a variety of different techniques used by plastic surgeons for liposuction and care following surgery. Liposuction may be performed under local, sedation, or general anesthesia depending on the areas. Tumescent liposuction technique involves the infiltration of fluid containing dilute local anesthetic and epinephrine along with ringer lactate solution or normal saline solution into areas of fatty deposits. This technique can reduce discomfort at the time of surgery, blood loss, and post-operative bruising. Compression support garments and dressings are worn to control swelling and promote healing.*