Liposuction - Cosmetic Medical Centre - Sydney, Australia

[Cosmetic Medical Centre]

Liposuction

[Liposuction Before]

Before

[Liposuction After]

After

          The above photographs
          illustrate a typical result.

          The procedure is the only
          change that has occured
          between the photographs.

Liposuction or Liposculpture is a popular surgical procedure that instantly removes fat from stomach, thighs, hips, chin & other areas. The Cosmetic Medical Centre uses the latest external ultrasonic liposuction technique, and the Power Cannula. In fact, Dr Roberts was the first surgeon to introduce this technique to Australia as routine surgery.

Today it is commonplace and performed professionally and quickly by our Cosmetic Surgeons. It is a fast, effective procedure and the results last a lifetime. You are back home the same day and most patients are able to return to work after a day or two.

Liposculpture is not exclusive to females, in fact, we perform many procedures on men. Body image is directly related to how we feel about ourselves and our self confidence. Liposuction can beautifully shape our body by removing fatty tissue to give us new confidence and a new outlook on life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Overview
What is External Ultrasonic Liposculpture?
What is the Power Cannula?
How many kilos can I have removed?
Does it hurt?
How long does it take?
Is it dangerous?
What are the possible complications?
Do you have to be overweight to have it done?
Will fat ever return to the area?
How long do I have to be off work?
How long do I wear bandages?
Will there be bruising and swelling?
Will the skin be flabby after liposuction?
Can I exercise afterwards?
Can I drive home following liposuction?
How much does liposuction cost?
Is liposuction covered by private insurance or Medicare?

It is suitable for the treatment of discreet areas of fatty deposits, but not for generalised weight reduction. However, at the Cosmetic Medical Centre we have a specialist, who can advise and guide you on how to lose weight and strengthen your muscles.

The great majority of liposculpture procedures can be done under intravenous sedation (twilight sleep) and local anaesthetic. For most patients local anaesthetic is very satisfactory as it keeps costs to a minimum and allows patients to return home two hours after the procedure. Post operative discomfort and bruising is minimal.

What is External Ultrasonic Liposculpture?

External Ultrasonic liposculpture is the latest technique in liposuction. It is now being used in Australia and is only performed by a small number of surgeons in Australia. The major benefit of this new technique is a higher rate of patient and surgeon satisfaction. Also, large volumes of fat can be effectively removed with minimal blood loss, better skin retraction and less swelling and bruising in the post operative period. External ultrasonic liposculpture is safer than traditional internal ultrasonic liposuction because there is no risk of burning the skin or the seroma (the collection of fluids beneath the skin).

What is the Power Cannula?

The Power Cannula is the most advanced technique in liposculpture. Our centre was the first in Australia to introduce this new system. The mechanical action of the handpiece moves the cannula back and forth by approximately 3 millimetres. This vibrating action of the cannula, plus the surgeon's motion of the handle, allows the fatty tissue to be separated much more precisely in fibrous and loose skin. The process of liposuction becomes easier, with gentle penetration and without the risk of burning the skin. It has the advantage of being a more superficial technique which allows greater control during the procedure.

How many kilos can I have removed?

We do not talk in kilograms because fat does not weigh that much (in fact fat is lighter than water). For this reason we measure fat in volume (millilitres and litres), and not in weight (kilograms). We are not aiming to reduce your overall weight, but rather to change your shape. However, our specialist can achieve a swift reduction of your weight, if you follow our weight reduction program.

The procedure is not painful. It is done under intravenous sedation, twilight sleep and local anaesthetic. Afterwards some patients report some discomfort for 24 hours, however it is slight and panadol will usually make it unnoticeable.

How long does it take?

Usually only three to four hours. You'll need to allow a little extra time as you will be required to stay and relax for a little while after the procedure is finished. Expect to be in the centre for five to six hours.

Is it dangerous?

All surgery carries some degree of risk but the risks that are associated with liposuction are very low. Your health will be assessed before the operation to minimise all risks.

What are the possible complications?

Complications are very uncommon and usually minor. During the pre-operative consultation, the doctor will spend around an hour discussing the procedure and the risks involved.

Do you have to be overweight to have it done?

Liposuction is most suitable for people who are of normal weight but out of proportion. Overweight people can also be helped by liposuction, but they must also deal with the cause of their weight gain.

Will fat ever return to the area?

Liposuction has a long term rather than a short term effect. It is surprisingly hard to make fat return to the area treated by liposuction. This is because liposuction removes the fat cells in the area. If you do put on more weight, the fat is more likely to accumulate in other areas. Obviously we should all be aware of the principles of good nutrition and that liposuction is a treatment that removes fat deposits - it is not a substitute for good diet.

How long do I have to be off work?

Some patients go back to work the following day. It is a better idea to take two or three days off.

How long do I wear bandages?

Dressings will normally be in place for one or two days. When they are removed you will need to wear an elastic support garment for three weeks.

Will there be bruising and swelling?

Bruising is uncommon with the particular technique that we use. If it occurs it is minor and disappears quickly. Swelling is much less common, if proper support garments are worn.

Will the skin be flabby after liposuction?

Skin is very elastic and will shrink back very well. Elastic support garments are also important to ensure a smooth, wrinkle free result.

Can I exercise afterwards?

Exercise is encouraged from the end of the first week, although it may take longer to feel comfortable doing high impact aerobics or jogging. Circuit training, swimming, bike riding, steppers, etc. are good for you.

Can I drive home following liposuction?

Because you will be given a light anaesthetic it is not recommended for you to drive that day. You should arrange for a taxi, or a friend or relative to pick you up.

How much does liposuction cost?

Most procedures are done in our Day Surgery under a local anaesthetic and intravenous sedation and usually cost approximately $3,500 - $6,500. Theatre and accommodation fees of $1,100 are included in the price. Larger liposuctions are usually performed in hospital under a general anaesthetic, with additional fees applicable.

Is liposuction covered by private insurance or Medicare?

If you are in a private health fund you can claim the theatre and day accommodation fees, approximately $500. Medicare will not provide a rebate for liposuction as it is a cosmetic procedure.

Cosmetic Medical Centre | 02 9357 7333 | 426 Crown St, Surry Hills, Sydney NSW 2010 | info@cosmeticmedical.com.au