Liposuction has been around long enough, but it has recently gained popularity again. It is a cosmetic surgery that helps individuals achieve a slimmer and more contoured body. Body contouring procedures aim to improve your body appearance by removing excess fat, tissue, or skin or using implants to make your body more proportionate.
When considering liposuction, you must understand the procedure and where you will receive the treatment. South Korea is known for thriving in the cosmetic industry and is regarded as the top destination for liposuction. If you are considering liposuction in South Korea, read this article to gauge your expectations about the procedure and what it is like having it there.
Types of liposuction
There are several techniques to remove unwanted fat deposits from specific areas of the body. Here is a brief introduction to the types of liposuction.
Tumescent liposuction
Tumescent liposuction is the most commonly done procedure. The procedure involves injecting a large volume into the target area for liposuction. This fluid is typically a mixture of saline, local anesthesia, and epinephrine to help numb the area and reduce bleeding, allowing the surgeon to remove fat easily.
When the fluid is injected into the area, the surgeon creates small incisions, inserts the cannula into the site, and suctions out the fat. Tumescent liposuction is considered a safe and effective procedure with a low risk of complications.
Ultrasound-assisted liposuction
Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL) uses high-frequency sound waves to break up fat cells before suctioning. A small wand is inserted into the treated area and delivers sound waves to break up the fat, and the surgeon suctions the fat with a cannula.
The procedure is usually for areas where fat is more fibrous and difficult to remove, like the upper abdomen and back. Ultrasound-assisted liposuction may have less bleeding and swelling than traditional liposuction, but the procedure is incompatible for everyone.
Laser-assisted liposuction
Laser-assisted liposuction (LAL) uses a laser to melt the fat before the surgeon suctions it out. The laser is delivered through a small cannula and inserted into the treated area. This procedure is often used in areas requiring high precision, like the neck and chin. The laser-assisted liposuction may have less bleeding, swelling, and bruising than traditional liposuction, but it may still not be suitable for everyone.
Ideal Candidates for Liposuction
Clients ideal for liposuction are those with localised fat deposits that do not respond to a healthy diet and regular exercise. Liposuction is a weight loss procedure designed for overweight or obese people, is a misconception many people believe in. The suitable candidates for liposuction should have the following:
- Good overall health. Patient should not have any underlying medical conditions that could increase risks and complications during or after surgery.
- Stable weight. Weight fluctuations will affect results.
- Problems in specific areas. There should be specific areas of the body with stubborn fat pockets resistant to diet and exercise.
- Good skin elasticity. Skin with poor elasticity may not conform to body sculpting or contouring after fat removal. This will only result in loose or sagging skin.
Lastly, clients that are good candidates should have realistic expectations of the procedure. Liposuction has limitations and is not a substitute for a healthy diet and regular exercise. What are the things you should expect in the procedure?
What to Expect: Liposuction Procedure
Liposuction is a surgical procedure; it is expected that there be anesthesia and incisions involved in the procedure.
The cosmetic surgeon administers anesthesia in the area of treatment to make you feel comfortable and minimize the pain throughout the procedure. The type of anesthesia you will receive depends on the extent of the liposuction procedure. You may receive local anesthesia for numbing only the area for liposuction, or general anesthesia to put you to sleep during the procedure.
When the anesthesia takes effect, the surgeon makes small incisions in the target areas. The incisions are only less than a quarter-inch long and are done in areas that are not visible. A thin tube or cannula is inserted through the incisions to break up and suction out the excess fat. The surgeon carefully sculpts the treated area to create the desired shape and contour.
After removing excess fat deposits, the cosmetic surgeon closes the incisions with adhesive strips or sutures. A compression garment may be placed over the treated area to reduce swelling and aid healing.
You will be transferred to the recovery room and monitored for a few hours before being released to go home. But this depends on the extent of your procedure. You may also experience some discomfort, bruising and swelling in the treated area. Cosmetic surgeons will advise you to avoid strenuous activities and instruct you about proper wound care. It is essential to follow their instruction to prevent infection and other complications.
There may be a noticeable improvement in the contours after the procedure. Still, the overall liposuction results may take several months to become apparent as the swelling subsides and your body heals.
It is essential to have realistic expectations about the results and understand the limitations of liposuction.
Advantages and Limitations of Liposuction
The most significant advantage of liposuction is the improvement of your appearance. It sculpts your body into a more toned and contoured physique. Liposuction can effectively remove the seemingly impossible fat pockets from specific areas of your body.
- Targeted fat reduction
- Body shape contour
- Long-term result
- Minimal scarring
- Boost in self-confidence
Liposuction results are long-lasting, but only with discipline. Although fat cells are removed and will not grow back, possible weight gain may happen if the patient does not maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine.
If not for these advantages, liposuction would not be as popular today. But, still, there are liposuction has limitations that make it incompatible for some people.
- Not a weight loss method
- Possible risks and complications
- Skin irregularities
- Not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle
- Cost
It is essential to know the advantages and limitations of liposuction to determine if it is the right option for you.
Costs and Potential Risks and Complications
The cost of liposuction in South Korea can vary depending on the procedure and clinic, but getting liposuction in Korea is much cheaper compared to other countries. Its average cost ranges from 1,500,000 KRW to 8,000,000 KRW (approximately 1,260 USD to 6,730 USD). You can have an estimate of the liposuction for your need if you consult at Mina Plastic Surgery.
It is also essential to know the potential risks and complications of liposuction to prepare yourself if you decide to undergo the procedure. Some include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Fluid imbalance
- Skin irregularities
- Numbness or tingling
- Pulmonary embolism
- Anesthesia-related complications
- Scarring
Besides discussing the estimated liposuction cost, ask questions about the potential risks and complications before the procedure. Skilled and experienced surgeons at Mina Plastic Surgery minimize the risks and ensures safety and success.
Alternatives to Liposuction
If liposuction is not for you, you can have alternatives to help reduce body fat and improve your body contour. Here are some of your options.
Non-invasive Alternatives
You can reduce fat without surgery through:
- Cryolipolysis (CoolSculpting). The procedure uses freezing temperatures to destroy fat cells.
- Radiofrequencry (RF) treatment. It uses heat to break down fat cells.
- Laser lipolysis. The procedure uses laser energy to melt and remove fat cells.
Diet and Exercise
A healthy diet and regular exercise can help reduce body fat and improve body contouring. Prepare a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats daily. This can help reduce excess body fat.
Moreover, regular exercise, including strength training and cardiovascular exercise, can help burn fat, build muscle, and improve overall health.
Although there are alternatives, it has different results than liposuction, and the results take longer than liposuction.
How to Book an Appointment at Mina Plastic Surgery
Booking an online consultation at Mina Plastic Surgery is straightforward. Contact us at (+82) 10-629-6552 or fill out our consultation form. Discuss your concerns and the potential risks and complications of liposuction. A skilled plastic surgeon knows the best solution for your needs. For more concerns about liposuction and other cosmetic procedures, contact us.
Kindly note that we do not accept walk-in patients. Please book an appointment first.
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