1) Does
liposuction replace dieting and exercise?
It is important
to understand that this procedure in NOT a treatment
for generalized obesity and does not replace dieting and/or exercise.
However, it does contour "stubborn" body areas that do
not respond to dieting and exercise. Dr. Shamoun has performed lipoplasty
of the face and neck area, arms, abdomen, flanks, hip rolls, outer
and inner thighs, above knees and ankles with very pleasing results.
2) Will I see results immediately?
Results are
usually not seen at once. The initial recovery period takes approximately
two or four days. Bruising to varying degrees follows. Significant
improvement and results start to show after two weeks. Most of the
improvement is noticeable at 3-4 weeks. The final result, however,
may not be evident until up to six months after the procedure, during
which time there is a gradual but continuous improvement of the
contour.
3) Are medical
photographs necessary?
Just as the
chest surgeon cannot operate in an intelligent way without x-rays
of the chest, the plastic surgeon cannot operate on the body without
medical photographs. These photographs show your body in every detail
and aid greatly during the planning and performance of the surgery.
These photographs are not meant to flatter you. You will probably
find them harsh and unsuitable for framing. As the rest of you medical
records, these photographs are treated confidentially and are not
release or shown without your consent.
4) If I
gain weight after the liposuction, will the deformity return?
We are born
with a given number of fat cells, just as we are born with a given
number of brain cells, called "terminal cells". This means
that when we gain weight, we do not produce more cells, but each
individual fat cell gets larger; however, if fat cells are removed,
then subsequent weight gain in the suctioned area will be only in
proportion with other body areas. Therefore, the results of lipoplasty
are permanent provided the body weight remains approximately the
same. If, in general, body weight is gained, the operated areas
will gain in proportion with the rest of the body.
5) What
do I need to be aware of before the procedure?
It is recommended
to stop taking Pondimin and Fastin ("Phen-Fen") 2 weeks
before liposuction due to the adverse reactions they may cause when
combined with anesthesia. It is also recommended to stop taking
Vitamin E, aspirin, herbal teas and garlic due to the greater risk
of bruising associated with these products. An all purpose multivitamin
at least 3-4 weeks preoperatively to correct any diet related deficiency
is recommended.
6) What
are the complications of the procedure?
The technique
appears to be relatively free of complications (more so that any
other cosmetic operation) when performed by Dr. Shamoun, a specialist
of lipoplasty. Postoperative bleeding, infection and tissue necrosis
are possible, but much less common that they would be with other
body contouring operations. During the postoperative period, the
skin can temporarily develop ridges, dimpling or irregularities.
These occur more commonly in older patients. Diminished sensation
has been reported over the skin areas that were treated, but this
usually is only temporary.
7) What
type of anesthesia is used?
A local anesthesia
is administered when and isolated small area is treated, however,
when multiple areas are involved, usually alight general anesthetic
is recommended. Spinal anesthetic is not a choice. Most importantly,
regardless of the type of anesthesia you select, there will be no
pain during the operation.
8) Will
I need any bandages?
It is recommended
that patients wear a pressure garment for approximately seven to
ten days after surgery. Some patients find the garment so comfortable
they continue wearing it for another week or two, mainly at night.
When the new superficial technique is used, the garment is worn
for a longer period of time.
9) When
can I return to work?
Most patients
are comfortable returning to work within two to four days after
surgery. Whatever little discomfort is present following surgery
can easily be controlled with mild analgesics.
10) When
can an exercise program be resumed?
Light exercise
in the form of walking should begin the day of surgery and continue
for at least three weeks. During this time, heavy exercise such
as aerobics, weight machines, jogging and bicycle riding should
be avoided. A simple guideline is that for the first three weeks
after surgery anything that takes more effort than lifting 30 pounds
should be avoided.
Liposuction is a very
rewarding surgical procedure because it accomplishes the goals established
by the patient and the surgeon. It is important that you understand
that all patients are different and the degree of surgical success
differs with each patient. Your goals and expectations should be
realistic.
If you have any questions,
please be sure to have them answered in advance by me or my staff.
The members of my office staff are thoroughly informed, trained
and able to answer questions that may occur to you. Well-meaning
friends are not a good source of information. Find out everything
you want to know. A well-informed patient is a happy one!
