Health Check: Are Cosmetic Enhancements as Safe as They Say?

If you’re got liposuction in Melbourne in your search history, chances are you want to change the way you look. But is it safe? Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering undergoing aesthetic enhancement.

There are different types

There’s not a one-size-fits-all liposuction technique. From tumescent, super-wet, ultrasound-assisted and laser-assisted techniques, you may undergo one type or a combination of techniques. While there is no ‘best’ type,tumescent is the most common technique and uses an injected solution of lidocaine, epinephrine and saline. More important than the type of lipo that you undergo is the skill and precision of the person performing the procedure. So, take the time to properly research the qualifications and abilities of your cosmetic surgeon. If the price is too good to be true – it could be a sign that the level of care you receive is not as comprehensive.

It’s non-invasive

Many cosmetic outlets will heavily promote how non-invasive liposuction is. While as a type of cosmetic surgery this is certainly the case, there is an important healing process that takes place after the procedure. There are several important steps to undergo before you are fully back to normal. And it can even be several months before you see the body contouring’s full results. As lipo involves anaesthesia, in the short term you can expect to be drowsy and need help to get yourself home and perhaps the following night as well. Bruising, soreness and swelling can occur for 10 or so days after the procedure as the area treated has essentially been subjected to trauma. You are generally placed in bandages and then compression garments that will need to be worn for a certain length of time.

Risks

Generally speaking, liposuction is very safe and reliable. The power-assisted technique makes liposuction gentler, cannulas are available in different widths and sizes to suit even the smallest area. The use of fluid means the fat is ‘loosened’ more easily meaning less bruising and bleeding. Having said that, the larger the number of areas being treated or amount of fat being removed, the risks increase.

As with any surgery, risks are lowered and recovery is expedited when you are healthy and active prior to the treatment. Even more so with liposuction: it is not a weight loss treatment, but used to contour areas after you reach your ideal weight.

Complications

Aside from anaesthetic complications, there are potential complications that your cosmetic surgeon will describe to you. Infections, fluid accumulation, blood clots and internal damage are rare, but serious. Some patients may need another cosmetic procedure after liposuction if their skin becomes baggy or rippled in appearance.Changes to the appearance of the external skin might also occur. It might be pigmentation or discolouration, which is often short-lived. A preliminary consultation with your cosmetic surgeon will provide more information.It should be used to discuss any of your medical concerns and aesthetic aims.