The procedure

Preoperatively the surgeon marks the areas of liposuction and fat injection. This is a very important step, as patient positioning on the operating table may modify the form of some depressions and prominences of the body. The procedure techniques may vary according to the individual conditions of the patient. Most of the procedures are performed with the patient in the supine position (lying down with face up) or with patient in the prone position (lying with face down). The circulating nurse will ensure that all body pressure points as well as breasts and nipples are padded. You will be covered with a warm blanket to keep you warm during surgery. Also, the intravenous therapy is initiated to give you liquid substances and medications directly into a vein.

The liposculpture technique involves the use of a small tube called a cannula, which is inserted through tiny incisions under the skin to remove fat. The latest technique of liposculpture/liposuction employs ultrasound energy to liquify fat cells, which are removed by the cannula. Because of its better quality, most surgeons prefer fat from conventional liposuction to be used for lipoinjection. Fat obtained for lipoinjection is decanted to separate fat from tumescent fluid and other fluids. To maintain normal body fluid balance, the surgeon maintains during the procedure the administration of intravenous fluids. A large dose of liquid containing lidocaine, a local anesthetic, and epinephrine is injected in the treated area. In the liposculpture type UAL (Ultrasound assisted lipo) the fat is liquefied by the solution to ease the extraction. Incisions are made within skin folds.

This method allows the surgeon to easily remove fat deposits with less damage to the tissues. Drainage tubes are placed to diminish the risk of seroma. Incisions are closed with sutures, an antibiotic dressing is placed over the incision and a surgical tape is applied.

After the procedure a compression bandage is applied. There are a wide variety of bandages with many different applications. Your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate compression garment for you.