How is revision liposuction performed?

Revision liposuction is performed in the manner as primary liposuction. The same techniques are employed to remove unwanted fat and sculpt the body.

Revision liposuction is a cosmetic procedure used to reduce fat deposits in specific areas of the body, where a previous surgery did not accomplish the patient’s goals. Cosmetic liposuction is best for people who are close to their ideal weights with specific areas of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise.

When revision liposuction is performed, small incisions are made where subcutaneous fat is to be removed. A narrow tube called a cannula is inserted through the incision. Depending upon the technique used, the cannula may contain a laser or an ultrasonic generator to liquefy fat for easier removal, or the doctor may just use the cannula itself as a shaping tool. The cannula is connected to a powerful vacuum that extracts the fat from the body. As the fat is removed, narrow tunnels are created underneath the skin. As these tunnels shrink and heal, the body takes on a new shape. Surgery scars are very small and hidden in inconspicuous places. Scarring is minimal. Initial swelling and bruising will disappear as the body heals.

Different surgeons employ different types of anesthesia based on their preferred technique. Typically, revision liposuction performed under local anesthesia, which is called tumescent liposuction, has fewer risks than liposuction performed under general anesthesia. In tumescent liposuction, the part of the body undergoing surgery is injected with anesthesia. The patient remains awake during the procedure. Afterwards, recovery time is faster than with general anesthesia.

Following revision liposuction, the patient will wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and fluid accumulation. Most patients can resume normal activities in a week. As swelling diminishes, the results of surgery will start to emerge. Full results of cosmetic liposuction may not appear for six months though an initial improvement will be apparent.