Liposuction : who is suitable for this intervention and what are its contraindications ?
The best candidate for liposuction is a man or woman of relatively normal weight and sufficiently elastic skin who has pockets of excess fat in certain areas (abdomen, arms, thighs, hips, love handles...).
He or she should be healthy, psychologically stable, and realistic in his/her expectations.
In fact, it is important to understand that liposuction greatly improves appearance, but it will not necessarily achieve the desired ideal silhouette.
Age is not a key consideration, the patient must be over 18, however, older patients with decreased skin elasticity may not achieve the same results as younger patients with elastic skin. In such cases, the surgeon may indicate, as preferable and in addition to liposuction a surgical procedure with removal of excess skin such as an abdominoplasty or thigh lift.
It is important to know that liposuction is not a weight loss surgery, it is not suitable for overweight people and those who suffer from obesity :
If patients suffer from severe obesity, liposuction is not the appropriate method for reducing excess weight. This is because, contrary to a common assumption, liposuction is not a treatment option for weight reduction, but only serves to harmoniously contour the body. Overweight individuals must therefore first try to reduce their weight using conventional measures or bariatric surgery. If stubborn fat deposits persist even after achieving normal weight, liposuction may be considered.
Other contraindications to consider are :
- a general poor state of health
- injuries or inflammations in the treatment area
- minors
- pregnant or breastfeeding women
- certain diseases as a pronounced cardiopulmonary disease or a tendency to convulsions
- some allergies
- wrong motivation such as urge for treatment by the partner or unrealistic expectation of the result.
It is during the peroperative consultation that the surgeon will examine you and ask you questions about your medical history to be sure you can undergo it.
How to prepare for liposuction ?
In order to find out whether liposuction is the most suitable and effective treatment method in a specific case, a detailed consultation with the specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery takes place as before any aesthetic plastic surgery. During the preoperative consultation, the surgeon examines the patient in order to be able to exclude any contraindications and to create an individual treatment concept. If the patient decides to have liposuction Tunisia, as with other surgical procedures, smoking, alcohol consumption and the use of certain medications (e.g. blood thinning agents) should be discontinued prior to liposuction. In this way, the healing process can be favored and supported in advance. In addition, the risks are reduced by these measures.
The surgeon asks the patient to do blood analysis to be sure he/she will be able to opt for this operation without problems.
Immediately before the procedure
In preparation for liposuction Tunisia, there is a consultation with the doctor and the anaesthesiologist. The suction areas are first disinfected by the surgeon and then marked on the skin with a pen. Then the anaesthesia is prepared. The doctor's recommendations and the patient's preferences are of course discussed and agreed upon in advance.
How is it performed ?
The principle of liposuction is the same for all methods : During the procedure, fatty tissue
is
selectively loosened under the skin and suctioned out with a fine cannula. Problem areas are
targeted so that the body can be brought into a desired shape. Especially in the case of
localized fat deposits on the hips, abdomen, legs and upper body, excellent results can be
achieved through the procedure.
This intervention is realized under general anaesthesia.
The post-operative period of liposuction in Tunisia
The post-operative period of a liposuction in Tunisia is a critical phase of recovery that requires careful care and an understanding of the healing processes. Here is some additional information to better understand this period and what patients can expect
The day after the surgery, patients are encouraged to walk gently. This promotes blood and lymphatic circulation, helping to reduce swelling and prevent blood clots. Wearing a compression garment is essential in the post-operative period. The garment gently compresses the treated area, helping to reduce swelling and maintain the newly sculpted shape. Initially, the garment should be worn continuously, day and night, for the first two weeks, and then only during the day for the following two weeks.
To minimize the risk of complications, it is recommended not to stand or sit for too long. Patients should take the time to rest and elevate their lower limbs to reduce swelling. Light exercises, such as gentle walking, may be encouraged, but it is essential to avoid strenuous physical activities during the post-operative period.
Bruising, which is common after liposuction, can last for 10 to 12 days. It is a normal reaction to surgery and gradually disappears over time. The treated areas will also be swollen for about 20 days. Swelling is a natural reaction of the body to surgery, and it is important to be patient, as the final results will only be visible after the swelling has subsided.
In the case of lipofilling, a technique that involves reinjecting fat taken from other parts of the body, patients should be aware that swelling can last for 3 to 4 days. Additionally, some of the injected fat may be spontaneously absorbed, which means that results may evolve over time. Patients should be informed of this to have realistic expectations.
What must be taken into account after liposuction ?
After the liposuction Tunisia, you will be put on a special compression girdle which you will have to wear for six weeks day and night in order to tighten the skin and prevent the formation of scars.
After one to two weeks and with the consent of your surgeon, you can return to everyday life without any problems. You may experience a slight stinging sensation, similar to sore muscles for up to two weeks after liposuction. During this time, you should definitely avoid heavy physical exertion, you must even refrain from sports activities for up to six weeks after the intervention.
Swelling of the affected areas is absolutely normal as with any operation, it will fade with time.
Liposuction Tunisia results
The final result of liposuction Tunisia will be seen after about three to six months when the swelling has subsided and the skin has tightened optimally.
Liposuction allows the body to be literally sculpted which makes the patient feel more self confident
and comfortable especially when wearing certain clothes.
But, he/she must follow a healthy lifestyle (regular physical activities with healthy meals)
to maintain the same results.
What are the various types of alternative procedures to surgical liposuction?
There are various surgical and medical alternatives to traditional liposuction, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of these alternatives :
Vaser Liposuction
Vaser liposuction (Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance) is an advanced liposuction technique that uses ultrasound to emulsify fat before suction. This method allows for gentler fat removal, reducing damage to surrounding tissues and resulting in less swelling and bruising. It is ideal for specific areas and offers faster recovery compared to traditional liposuction.
CoolSculpting
CoolSculpting is a non-invasive procedure that targets fat cells by freezing them. Treated fat cells are gradually eliminated by the body over time. It is a gentle method that does not require anesthesia or significant downtime. However, results may take several weeks to appear, and multiple sessions may be needed to achieve desired results.
SmartLipo
SmartLipo is a laser lipolysis procedure that uses a laser to melt fat cells before their removal. It has the advantage of faster recovery compared to traditional liposuction because the laser promotes blood coagulation, reducing swelling and bruising. SmartLipo is often used for smaller, localized areas.
Laser Lipolysis
Laser lipolysis, such as SculpSure, is another non-invasive method that uses lasers to heat and destroy fat cells. This technique requires no incision or anesthesia, and recovery is typically quick. However, multiple sessions may be needed to achieve desired results.
Radiofrequency-Assisted Liposuction (RF)
Radiofrequency-assisted liposuction is a technique that uses RF waves to heat and liquefy fat cells before their removal. This method allows for easier fat removal and may promote collagen production for skin tightening. It is often used for larger areas and skin tightening.
Water Jet Liposuction
This method uses a high-pressure water jet to emulsify fat before suction. It is considered less traumatic to surrounding tissues than traditional liposuction, which can result in faster recovery.
Ultrasonic Assisted Liposuction (UAL)
UAL uses ultrasound to emulsify fat, making it easier to remove. This technique is particularly useful for tougher fat areas. However, it can generate some heat, which may require close monitoring to avoid burns.
Tumescent Liposuction
Tumescent liposuction is a variation of traditional liposuction that involves the injection of a saline solution, local anesthesia, and epinephrine into the targeted area. This solution helps numb the area and reduce bleeding, making the procedure less invasive. It is often used for smaller, localized areas.
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)
This non-invasive technique uses high-frequency ultrasound to selectively heat and destroy fat cells beneath the skin. It can also stimulate collagen production for skin tightening. While primarily used for skin tightening, it can also help reduce fat in certain areas.
Mesotherapy
Mesotherapy is a non-invasive procedure that involves the injection of small amounts of a mixture of medications and natural substances directly into fat cells. It aims to break down fat cells and improve blood circulation to eliminate fat. Mesotherapy is mainly used for localized fat areas and may require multiple sessions.
FAQ on Liposuction
Is liposuction effective ?
Liposuction can yield impressive results by reducing circumference and improving the silhouette. However, it is essential to understand that liposuction is not a means of significant weight loss. It is more intended for sculpting and reshaping the body. The effectiveness of liposuction can vary from person to person, but overall, it can produce satisfactory results if expectations are realistic, and the patient maintains a healthy lifestyle after the procedure.
After liposuction, is it necessary to wear a compression garment or undergo lymphatic drainage ?
After liposuction, it is common to recommend wearing a compression garment. This garment helps reduce swelling, maintain the newly sculpted shape, and promote faster recovery.
Lymphatic drainage is also sometimes recommended to reduce swelling and aid in recovery. It involves a gentle massage technique aimed at stimulating lymphatic circulation, which can help remove excess fluids from the body. However, the need for lymphatic drainage depends on the complexity of the procedure and the surgeon's advice.
Is liposuction painful ?
Pain after liposuction can vary from person to person, but it is common to experience some pain, swelling, bruising, and discomfort during the initial recovery period. Patients are typically prescribed pain relievers to manage the pain. The pain is usually moderate and gradually decreases over the days or weeks following the procedure. The duration of pain also depends on the amount of fat removed and individual pain sensitivity.
What are the instructions to follow before liposuction ?
Before liposuction, it is essential to follow specific instructions provided by your surgeon to ensure the safety of the procedure and optimize results. These instructions can vary depending on the clinic and the technique used, but here are some general guidelines :
- Stop smoking, as smoking can hinder healing.
- Avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications and blood thinners.
- Discuss your medical history and allergies with your surgeon.
- Avoid eating or drinking after midnight the night before the procedure if general anesthesia is planned.
- Follow fasting recommendations if local anesthesia is used.
- Ensure you have a transportation plan for returning home after liposuction.
QWhat type of anesthesia is required ?
The type of anesthesia used in liposuction depends on several factors, including the extent of the procedure, the surgeon's and patient's preferences, and the clinic where the procedure takes place. The two common types of anesthesia used are :
Local anesthesia: In this case, the surgeon numbs the area to be treated using a local anesthetic solution, allowing the patient to remain awake during the procedure. This is mainly suitable for smaller liposuctions.
General anesthesia or intravenous sedation: For more extensive procedures, general anesthesia or intravenous sedation is used to put the patient to sleep during the intervention.
The choice of anesthesia will depend on the complexity of the liposuction, the surgeon's recommendation, and the patient's preference.
Is it dangerous?
Liposuction is a common and relatively safe surgical procedure when performed by a qualified surgeon in an appropriate medical setting. However, like any surgical procedure, it carries risks. Possible complications of liposuction include bruising, swelling, pain, infections, skin irregularities, nerve damage, and allergic reactions to anesthetics.
Si elle est réalisée par une équipe de professionnels experts, et par un chirurgien expérimenté dans une structure respectant les dispositions sanitaires, la liposuccion est une intervention très sûre, avec un très faible pourcentage d'événements malheureux graves (en moyenne, environ 2-3 %).
Is liposuction a permanent surgery?
Liposuction is not a permanent surgery in the sense that it does not guarantee that fat will never return. Liposuction is a procedure that permanently removes fat cells from targeted areas of the body. However, if a person does not maintain a healthy lifestyle after liposuction, new fat cells can form, and the remaining fat cells in other parts of the body can still store fat. This means that weight gain after liposuction is possible and can affect the silhouette, even if the treated areas do not regain fat disproportionately.
To maintain the results of liposuction, it is essential to maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and manage weight. Liposuction is more effective for reshaping the body than for significant weight loss. It can offer long-lasting results if the patient adopts a healthy lifestyle after the procedure.
