Liposuction is generally performed under general anaesthetic, but local anaesthetic may be offered if only a small amount of fat is being removed. The surgeon will begin by making a small incision in the targeted area, after which the fat is broken down by means of a low-frequency laser, high-pressure water jet or ultrasonic waves.
The surplus fat is then removed using 1 of the following methods:
Wet liposuction
Involves the injection of a fluid mixture made up of a salty solution, local anaesthetic and adrenaline to help reduce bleeding, bruising and swelling. It also makes it easier for the fat cells to be removed.
Dry liposuction
The dry liposuction method is similar but does not use an injection of fluid. The process leaves your small blood vessels and nerves intact, although it can result in more bruising than wet liposuction.
Whichever technique is used, the surgeon will insert a suction tube into the fatty area via a cannula that is connected to a strong vacuum pump. Using a back-and-forth motion, the excess fat is drained from the body.
The cut is then closed with stitches or a simple Elastoplast dressing. A firm support garment must then be worn to add pressure to the newly formed shape and assist with the early reduction of swelling and tissue healing
The procedure will take approximately 1 to 3 hours.
