Gaining fat in some areas of our bodies is entirely normal. But, sometimes, beauty standards or weight concerns might push us into wanting to get rid of it.
Dieting and working out are several of the most common methods to lose weight and shed off fat. However, there are some instances or circumstances when these practices might not be enough.
This is when liposuction becomes an option for some people. It’s the second leading cosmetic procedure worldwide and the fourth most popular in Canada.
But, before you go under the knife, here are three things you need to know about liposuction.
1. You Need To Qualify for the Surgery
Liposuction is a surgical procedure, so it will involve some risks. This also means that not everyone would be a good candidate for this surgery.
Before giving you the green light for the surgery, your doctor will assess the quality and firmness of your skin, the degree of fat excess, and the degree of cellulite/dimpling in the areas you wish to have the procedure.
Some risk factors also include:
- Age. Patients over 45 years old have a slightly higher risk of complications, such as hematoma and infection, according to a 2017 study.
- Current and target weight. Aside from age, obesity is also a risk factor. To avoid complications, experts recommend being within 30 percent of your target weight before undergoing liposuction.
- Smoking. Chronic smokers who have not stopped smoking at least three weeks before the procedure could be at higher risk of skin necrosis after getting liposuction. When left untreated, this condition could end up lethal.
2. Recovery Will Take a While
Despite being cosmetic in nature, liposuction is still surgery, and you will need some time to recover.
Experts estimate around five to seven days of initial recovery before you can return to work, as long as your job isn’t too physically demanding.
You will need four to six weeks before returning to physical activities, such as exercise or manual labour. The long-term recovery that allows swelling to subside will likely take three months.
Therefore, it is vital to select your clinic carefully, ensuring that you get the best liposuction in Toronto. You could also consult your doctor if part of your treatment could be covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
3. Liposuction Is Not a Weight Loss Procedure
If you’re planning to undergo liposuction to lose a significant amount of weight, your doctor may recommend you try other options.
You could lose a few pounds after liposuction, as it removes fat cells from your body. However, there is a maximum limit to the amount of fat your doctor could safely remove. This depends on your body and overall health.
Liposuction is more useful as an aid to losing the subcutaneous fat that doesn’t go away from diet and exercise and not as a primary method of losing weight. You will need a healthier diet and regular aerobic exercise to lose visceral fat.
Surgery, including liposuction, is a major procedure that requires careful consideration and prior assessment. Make sure to talk to your doctor and ensure that you are well-prepared and suited to undergo the process.
