A
relatively new procedure, liposuction is designed
to eliminate fatty deposits in various areas of the
body, such as the abdomen, thighs, buttocks or neck.
During the liposuction procedure, the plastic surgeon
inserts a cannula through a small incision site in
the particular area of the body to be suctioned. In
the case of an abdominal suction, for example, the
cannula is inserted through a small incision in the
pubic area. The cannula is connected to a vacuum pump
which, in essence, emulsifies the fat and then sucks
it out of the body.
This
procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis
and the patient can resume normal activities within
a week's time, but must refrain from exercising and
sports for three weeks postoperatively. Liposuction
is the treatment of choice when isolated fatty deposits
are a problem. It is not a weight-loss technique.
