The abdomen may present a surplus of fat. If this is the case, surgery will consist in lipo-suction (for both men and women) especially in those patients with very elastic skin.

 

Lipo-suction allows for the removal of fat mass that is present for hereditary reasons on areas of the body for which dietary changes and exercise have failed.

 

This procedure is also used for other parts of the body: saddle bags, hips, upper abdomen, thighs, knees, calves, ankles, and in some cases the arms and the face.

 

Lipo-suction must be considered as a surgical intervention in and of itself. A preliminary consultation is required to see if this procedure can work for you. A thorough medical exam as well as a consultation with the anaesthesiologist will also be required.

 

The procedure is generally performed in outpatient surgery; that is to say with admission on the day of surgery and release the same day, after several hours of recovery.

 

Four types of anaesthesia are possible: local anaesthesia, tumescent anaesthesia, general anaesthesia or regional anaesthesia (epidural or spinal anaesthesia).

 

Fine rods are introduced through small incisions which will allow for the aspiration of fat. The quantity of fat removed depends on skin quality and surgical imperatives.

 

Recovery pain varies from person to person and according to the amount of fat that is removed. In general, pain remains moderate. Bruising and swelling appear on zones that received lipo-suction. Wearing a girdle will be necessary for two to four weeks after surgery. Exercise is possible after 3 weeks. Be careful not to expose the area to the sun for at least one month.

 

It will take at least six months to fully appreciate the results of this surgery.