Patients who opt for endoscopic surgery should be aware that, should complications occur during the operation, the surgeon might have to switch to an open procedure. The surgeon makes a small incision and inserts a cannula attached to a vacuum device that suctions out the fat. Suction-assisted lipectomy is not an alternative to weight loss. It is intended for use on localized areas of fat that do not respond to diet or exercise. Areas suitable for liposuction include the chin, neck, cheeks, upper arms, area above the breasts, the abdomen, flanks, the buttocks, hips, thighs, knees, calves and ankles.
Liposuction can improve body contour and provide a sleeker appearance.
The procedure takes from one to four hours, depending upon the amount of fat to be removed. Procedures that are not too extensive can be performed on an outpatient basis on patients under local anesthesia, although some surgeons may use an epidural block instead. Extensive procedures are usually performed on patients under general anesthesia. Fluids as well as fat are lost during the procedure, so the patient will receive intravenous fluid replacement. The treated area may feel numb for a few months.