Fat, in some cases, tends to be stubborn. Often, the only way to proceed is liposuction. Most people understand the basic concept behind this kind of procedure. However, there is more to liposuction than you may think.
It’s important that you get informed before paying for liposuction. Harley Street-based professionals at Dr Turner’s clinic recommend referring to this article before making a final decision. What Is It?
Liposuction is a procedure performed by a surgeon that removes fat from certain areas of the body, utilising a “suction” technique. Most commonly, these body areas include the hips, abdomen, buttocks, thighs, neck, or arms. In addition to removing the fat, liposuction contours these specific areas. Body contouring and lipoplasty are terms that are synonymous with liposuction.
Is It a Weight Loss Method?
Although many people consider liposuction a weight loss method, it isn’t typically deemed as such. An overweight person is more likely to lose weight via exercise and diet than with liposuction.
However, what liposuction specialises in are specific areas of the body with what people refer to as “stubborn” fat. In medical terms, this is called subcutaneous fat, and it’s notorious for being very hard to remove. If you have a lot of body fat in certain areas that won’t go away with less aggressive methods (exercise and diet), you might be a perfect candidate for liposuction.
Choosing the Right Professional
Plastic surgery is an industry with significant money invested in it. However, finding the right professional is imperative. Although liposuction isn’t considered a risky procedure in itself, there are a number of things that can go wrong. For that reason, you’ll want to pick an absolute professional.
In general, selecting the right professional boils down to a few factors. For one, you’ll want someone with experience. Basic as it sounds, you’ll want to find a seasoned expert who has performed this procedure many times.
Additionally, look at online testimonials and reviews. The more positive things the internet says about a plastic surgery professional, the better. Ideally, find someone who has had liposuction performed by the surgeon in question and ask them about their overall experience and satisfaction.
Then, there’s the factor of training and education. Most plastic surgeons are highly qualified professionals with medical board certifications and all the right documentation. Although this doesn’t make an individual a “good” plastic surgeon, education and training is a factor that goes without saying when planning plastic surgery.
The before/after gallery is also a great source of information regarding how good a plastic surgeon is. And make no mistake, the clinics that offer liposuction at Harley Street will offer before/after photos on their websites/social media pages.
What the Procedure Looks Like
If you’re planning on having liposuction, you’ll no doubt be interested in how it all works.
Firstly, liposuction can be performed with general or local anaesthesia. General anaesthesia is easier on the patient but is also riskier. Local anaesthesia involves more discomfort and, in some instances, pain, but is the safer way to go.
Each clinic makes use of different techniques and technologies to achieve the perfect results with liposuction. Harley Street, where Dr Turner’s renowned clinic is located, is a great example of experts who use innovative VASER technology. VASER uses ultrasound to emulsify (liquefy) the fat cells. This makes it easier for the fat cells to be suctioned away.
Many clinics don’t use VASER technology, which makes the process more difficult. This causes increased swelling and bruising.
Post-Operative Care
This is an outpatient procedure. Once your surgeon has cleared you, you’re allowed to go home. Keep in mind that you won’t be able to drive, so ask a loved one to provide transport. Someone should also stay by your side for 24 hours after the procedure, at the very least. There is an option to stay at the surgical centre, but this will involve further financial outlay.
Don’t expect to be happy with the results until two or three weeks have passed – until the swelling subsides, you might not be able to notice the difference. You can expect to be fit for work about a week after the procedure.
Liposuction 101
Although liposuction isn’t a major type of procedure, you shouldn’t underestimate it. You should pick the right professional (preferably one that uses VASER technology) and ensure proper post-operative care.