Since its inception in the 1980s, liposuction has undoubtedly faced criticism from skeptics. While patients undergoing all forms of cosmetic surgery are aware of the risks beforehand, there seems to be a pervasive misconception that liposuction is a clandestine danger, a black sheep in the realm of cosmetic treatments.
Why Liposuction Is Better Than Ever Before
This is understandable, as liposuction garnered astonishingly dramatic results in its early days, making the procedure seem unbelievably miraculous. Was there a surgery that could magically rid you of fat and make you look slimmer overnight? Questioning such advancements is human nature. The truth is: while any surgery, including liposuction, carries some risks, there are no secret threats your doctor hasn’t informed you about. In fact, liposuction today is safer than ever before.
Advances in Research and Technology Make It Safer
Traditional liposuction procedures were essentially aimed at suctioning out excess fat from localized areas of the body. It’s widely known that these primitive techniques could lead to bruising and bleeding, albeit temporarily.
Today, while this method is still used, it has been refined to reduce these side effects, effectively remove fat, and shorten patient recovery times. Modern liposuction begins by injecting saline solution, a local anesthetic called lidocaine, and a small amount of adrenaline to minimize bruising and bleeding. A small incision is made in a discreet location near the area. The surgeon then selects one of two liposuction methods: Suction-Assisted Liposuction (SAL) or Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction (UAL).
In SAL, the plastic surgeon inserts a small tube or cannula and moves it back and forth beneath the skin to break up the fat layer and suction it out. In UAL, the surgeon applies ultrasound energy to the area to liquefy the fat, which is then suctioned out through a cannula. Both procedures can last from one to five hours, depending on the amount of fat to be removed and the body area to be treated.
Types of Anesthesia Used Today
When liposuction was first introduced into the realm of cosmetic surgery, the most common modality was performed under general anesthesia. This might have been the primary concern initially for people, as allergies or adverse reactions to general anesthesia are more common.
Today, doctors have been able to transition their preferred sedation choices to local anesthesia, typically lidocaine as mentioned above. These carry a much greater risk of adverse reactions and may keep patients awake throughout the procedure without feeling pain.
In some cases, if a large volume of fat needs to be removed or the patient does not respond well to local anesthesia, the plastic surgeon may opt for general anesthesia. These choices are made only after the patient is well-informed and carefully considered. While most individuals can tolerate both types of anesthesia, surgeons today only resort to this approach when necessary, presenting an added risk.
More Experienced, Better Educated Surgeons
As liposuction becomes more prevalent, plastic surgeons have more opportunities to gain experience and knowledge. Like anything else, the more you practice, the finer your technique becomes.
Now, thirty years since liposuction was first introduced, doctors have more time to remove fat from a variety of body shapes, sizes, and needs on-site. Today’s plastic surgeons have a distinct advantage over those who first introduced this procedure into clinics, whether it’s removing fat deposits from the face, abdomen, back of the knees, thighs, or other parts of the body.
That being said, the doctor you choose must be reputable and trustworthy, with a successful history in liposuction and related cosmetic procedures. You don’t want to assume they’re experienced just because they say so; take the time to research your chosen doctor and ask them the questions you need answered to have confidence in their abilities. Experienced plastic surgeons will be more than happy to address your concerns.
More Selective Pool of Liposuction Patients
Today, plastic surgeons are very cautious in determining whether patients are truly suitable for any surgery, including liposuction. Contrary to popular belief, you can’t simply walk into a clinic and demand liposuction. Without proper evaluation, you’re at greater risk, and your health is your doctor’s top priority.
Some potential patients are not suitable candidates for liposuction, something skilled plastic surgeons recognize. For instance, most overweight or obese individuals may face significant risks with liposuction. Most doctors will advise you to lose weight before undergoing liposuction and reach or get close to your ideal weight to help minimize risks as much as possible. The procedure is better suited for those who are eating healthily, exercising regularly, but still have stubborn fat areas that won’t budge. If this sounds like you, it may be time to seek consultation and find out if you’re a candidate.
Common Risks of Liposuction
Despite better education and technological advancements, there are still some risk factors. Why? Because every patient is different, so sometimes reactions occur to treatments, anesthesia, or other factors. While the risks of this surgery are uncommon, just like any other type of surgery, problems can arise. Your risks may include infection, delayed healing, fat clots or blood clots, shock, seroma, burns, perforation injuries, lidocaine toxicity, or adverse drug or anesthesia reactions. Sometimes, the appearance of the skin after liposuction may change, with potential effects including sagging, numbness, or changes in pigmentation.
While liposuction is considered less invasive than other surgeries, it is still surgery and should be carefully considered and thoroughly discussed with your doctor before making a decision. Risks always exist, albeit minor, but you should be fully aware of what your surgery entails from start to finish. Today’s liposuction procedures can mitigate these risks, and if they do occur, your doctor is better equipped to help you address any issues that may arise.
