The number of fat cells in the body is established by the time a person reaches puberty. After this period, these cells act like balloons; so when we gain weight, these cells increase in size, because they are storing more fat. Also, when we lose weight, these cells tend to "shrink" because the fat inside decreases.

This means that after puberty these cells stay the same in number, but may get larger or smaller depending on several factors varying from person to person. Liposuction is a procedure that can help sculpt the body by removing the unwanted cells of fat from different areas of the body. Once they are removed, these cells will never come back.

Liposuction is currently the most frequently requested cosmetic surgery in the world and can be performed at virtually any age and in any part of the body.

Patients commonly request this procedure to be performed in their neck, cheeks, jowls, abdomen, buttocks, thighs, hips, knees, ankles, calves and arms.

Liposuction is also used to correct enlarged male breasts, a condition known as gynecomastia. Liposuction can be performed alone or in conjunction with virtually any other plastic surgery procedure.

In liposuction, the area to be treated is injected with a special fluid/anesthesia combination prior to suctioning. The fluid constricts the surrounding blood vessels, making the procedure nearly bloodless, while minimizing the pain. Anesthesia is given during and after surgery.

When the procedure is to be started a thin, hollow tube, or cannula, is inserted through one or more tiny incisions near the designated area. It is attached to a machine that creates a strong suction. The cannula is strategically manipulated to contour and sculpt the body. No actual pain is felt during the procedure, although you may feel an occasional stinging sensation.

Multiple areas of the body may be treated at the same time. Depending on the areas to be treated, liposuction can take from one to two and a half hours. After the procedure is finished the incisions are given fine stitches, and tight fitting binders are worn.

This is an outpatient procedure in the great majority of the cases, so you will be discharged after resting in your suite and once you feel comfortable to go. You may have little bruises or feel sore as if you had over exercised that part of the body. Some swelling is expected, which commonly peaks within three to four days and disappears within four to six weeks.

Depending on the areas treated, you may be able to return to work the next day although some patients need to rest two to three days to be able to return to work. It is important to begin with normal activity as soon as possible. Also, a medical massage therapy starting the day after the operation will be recommended.

The support binder should be worn for four to six weeks to reduce the possibility of swelling, unevenness or waviness. Your results will be likely visible almost immediately after surgery, but the complete effect may not be fully evident for four to six weeks after most of the swelling has subsided. Patients are usually very pleased with the results of the procedure, with a more comfortable body shape and an enhanced self-esteem.

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