Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat and results in immediate weight reduction. This happens when the fat is loosened and removed from a particular area with the help of metal tubes that are connected to a suction machine. Liposuction was first performed in 1977.

Liposuction and Obesity

However, as is widely believed, liposuction is not a cure for obesity, though most obese people would like to use it for becoming thin. Doctors believe that removal of too much fat at one time can be fatal and advise a maximum removal of only 2.5 kilograms at one time. And though the fat cells reduce in number, they can increase again. In fact, no plastic surgeon can guarantee a permanent cure for obesity. What is important to remember is that liposuction does not treat the underlying cause of obesity and that is why it is not a permanent remedy for losing weight.

Liposuction is recommended for two types of people. One, obese people who are twice their ideal weight and have failed to lose weight despite at least five years of medical (non-surgical) treatment. And two, those who are reasonably healthy but have extra localized fat in certain areas such as hips, thighs, arms etc.

However, liposuction could lead to a lot of complications. These include:

1. Hematoma, a tumor or swelling containing blood, is one of the major complications of liposuction. This happens because liposuction can lead to a collection of blood in the area that is operated upon.
2. Liquid fat can break and collect inside your body.
3. Formation of an abscess, because of serum that collects in the body. The abscess can be removed only through another operation.
4. Pain, uneasiness and skin irregularities This is caused by vacuum which is created in the body because of the fat being pumped out.
5. Uneven distribution of fat and skin irregularities may occur if the doctor is not experienced enough and sucks out fat irregularly. There are chances that muscles may also get damaged during the operation.

You need to keep this in mind before deciding on any course of action.