Am I An Appropriate Candidate For Liposuction?

One of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures is Liposuction, which involves the removal of fat deposits under the skin using a long, hollow needle called a cannula. Placed through incisions, this device is run along the inside of the skin to dislodge fat deposits. The fat is then suctioned out using a vacuum as the doctor moves the tubes around under the skin to target specific fat deposits. There are several types of liposuction available, including laser-assisted liposuction, ultrasound-assisted liposuction, water-assisted liposuction and tumescent liposuction. However, each procedure has its own set of benefits and risks which are best discussed during your consultation with your cosmetic surgeon. Are you the right candidate for liposuction? The best liposuction candidates should be physically fit and not more than 20 pounds overweight. It is important that your weight is steadily maintained – so if you are planning to lose a significant amount of weight, or even gain weight (for example, with a pregnancy), it is advisable not to undergo liposuction. After liposuction is performed, the results are permanent as long as your weight remains stable. Here’s a checklist to consider if you’re fit for liposuction:

• You have localised deposits of fat in your abdomen, arms, thighs and/or neck. These fat pockets are resistant to the effects of even the best diet and exercise regimens (or it may be caused by genetics).

• For best liposuction results, you need to have firm, elastic skin which can shrink back following the procedure. Many people lose skin elasticity with age, which could compromise the results of liposuction. Therefore, if your skin quality remains elastic, you can undergo liposuction regardless of your age.

• You must be healthy. If you have a past medical history of immunodeficiency disorders, cardiac arrhythmias, seizure disorders, excessive bleeding, deep vein thrombosis (blood clots in the legs) or pulmonary emboli (blood clots in the lungs); you would be placing yourself at greater risks of complications.

• You must also be mindful that taking certain drugs that may increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirins or anticoagulants (for example, warfarin,) can also cause complications. So if you are prescribed with these drugs, check with the surgeon if you are a suitable candidate.

• You are aware that liposuction is not a weight-loss method. It is not a substitute for diet and exercise. You should lose weight if you are extremely overweight or obese before considering liposuction.

• You have realistic expectations that liposuction cannot completely change your shape but it can help you redefine or sculpt your body, making you feel better about yourself if you are bothered by your spare tyre or pockets of unwanted fat.

Consultation for the best decision To help you make the most appropriate decisions about liposuction, consult with Beverly Wilshire’s experienced cosmetic surgeons based on your goals and your anatomy. You can inform our surgeon what you wish to change and why, then listen to his or her professional opinion on the types of procedures that might be best for you. You can also get advice on the cost of surgery, as well as what to expect during recovery from liposuction.