Liposuction

Dr. Giorgio Fischer, an Italian gynecologist invented the process of liposuction in 1974. This procedure was put to its first cosmetic use by Dr. Illouz, a French plastic surgeon. Today, the process of liposuction has seen different forms such as tumescent liposuction and laser liposuction. This has become a commonly performed cosmetic procedure in the United States. Overweight and obese people see liposuction as a panacea for their problems - the magical treatment that will rid them of unsightly bulges and fat.

Liposuction - the process
Liposuction involves the removal of unwanted lumps and bulges of fat using thin suction tubes (cannulae) that are placed into the body fat through small incisions. With the help of a vacuum attached to the cannula, fat is drawn out of the body. Liposuction is used to remove resistant fat deposits that do not respond to diet and exercise treatment. Impressive results are seen when liposuction is used on the abdomen, hips, thighs, knees, love handles and chin. Even sweat glands in the underarm have been known to be removed by liposuction in order to reduce excessive sweating. It is believed that the new shapely silhouette gained by this surgical procedure is long lasting if supplemented by a proper diet and exercise regimen. The process of liposuction involves a scar. But many see this as insignificant when compared to the new look they gain as a result of a 'tummy tuck', 'leg reduction' or 'arm reduction'.

Cost of liposuction
Cost of liposuction depends on the size of the area that is treated. The liposuction price is determined after initial consultation and assessment. Factors that affect the cost of the liposuction procedure are the doctor's fees and other costs such as the operating theatre, anesthesia and postoperative care. The price of liposuction can also depend on whether it is being performed in a hospital or a surgeon's office. The advantage of getting this procedure performed in a hospital are many -- competent staff, review by hospital board and access to facilities in the event of complications such as heart attack, stroke or allergic reaction to medication. But this can increase the cost of the liposuction treatment. The liposuction price can range upwards of $1,000.

Danger of liposuction
In the desire to shed the extra fat and seek a shapely figure, the dangers of liposuction are overlooked. The lure of gaining a trimmer tummy and slimmer thighs, sans diet and exercise seems an attractive proposition. But it must be remembered that a recent survey revealed that 1 of every 5,000 patient undergoing liposuction dies. The dangers of liposuction increase in proportion to the amount of fat removed. Possible side effects of this procedure are bruising, swelling, temporary numbness and discomfort in the surgically treated area. There is a possibility of serious complications such as blood clots, infection or allergic reactions. The risks and dangers of liposuction are increased if the area to be treated is large. Vital organs can get perforated or injured. The recovery process can be affected by infection and unfavorable drug reactions. In rare cases, excessive fluid loss has led to shock. Fat clots can migrate to the lungs and cause death if the process of liposuction is not carried out by a doctor who has sufficient training and experience in this cosmetic procedure.