LIPOSUCTION
In principle, the duration of a liposuction depends on the amount of fat to be removed, the type of anaesthetic and the surgical technique. An operation on the hip and thighs takes about 1-3 hours.
Before the procedure, the surgeon marks out exactly those areas of the body where the fat is to be suctioned off. The surgical area is disinfected, sterilely covered and small skin incisions are made in inconspicuous areas. A so-called tumescent liposuction is used, in which a special solution is administered into the subcutaneous tissue to release the fat cells. The fat is then sucked out with the help of a cannula connected to a vacuum pump. Several litres of fat can be sucked out during the procedure. Finally, the skin incisions are sutured and a bandage is applied that is as tight as possible. To support the new body shape, a compression bodice is initially applied. 14 days after the surgery, the doctor removes the stitches in the places where the cannula was inserted.
MAIN FACTS ABOUT LIPOSUCTION AT A GLANCE
- Surgery expectations: liposuction doesn’t replace a weight loss or a lift. Figure optimization, targeted improvement of problem areas.
- Surgery preparation: A mammography is obligatory. 14 days before the surgery avoid aspirin and other blood-thinning drugs. 2-3 weeks before and after the surgery, reduce alcohol consumption and smoking significantly due to possible wound healing disorders.
- Anaesthesia: up to 1000ml fat and in case of one body area a local anaesthesia is possible, otherwise general anaesthesia
- Surgery duration: depending on the extent, 1-3 hours
- Hospitalization: up to 4000ml fat 1-2 nights / over 4000ml fat 2-3 nights
- Compression bodice: 4-6 weeks
- Fit for work: after 1 week, physically demanding work after 2 weeks
- Sport: earliest after 4 weeks
- Sun / solarium: avoid for at least 4 weeks; afterwards cover up the scars and use a sunscreen with a high UV protection factor for at least 1 year
- Surgery results: depending on the conjunctive tissue, the result is visible after 3-4 months