Then a narrow tube called a cannula is inserted through the incision and excess fat cells are vacuumed out. The surgeon feels the tissues as he or she works, determining just how much subcutaneous fat must be removed to produce a natural, contoured look. Care must be taken not to remove too much fat, which could lead to a sunken appearance in a few years. After the procedure, a snug dressing is applied around the treated area. This usually is removed in the surgeon's office the following day, but you may be advised to wear a compression bandage for a few days and for several weeks at night to speed the healing of the treated area.
Most people are able to return to work a few days after having liposuction.
In fact, you may have the procedure on a Thursday afternoon and possibly be back at work on Monday morning. Mild pain relievers may be needed for a day or two, and cold compresses may be used to minimize any residual swelling and discoloration. Some surgeons are using a liposuction technique that involves injecting the area to be treated with a large amount of sterile salt solution containing a local anesthetic. The fat cells and the saline solution then are vacuumed out at the same time. The saline solution helps to distribute the anesthetic more completely.