LipoSelection® FAQs

Are there any risks associated with LipoSelection®?



As with any surgery, there are always potential risks and side effects. These have been minimised with the improved techniques.



Blood Loss

Due to new techniques blood loss is minimal. The tumescent solution reduces the risk of bleeding.



Infection

This is rare but can be serious. A 10 day programme of antibiotics is to be taken during and after
the operation.



Scarring

Small incisions are made in the skin during LipoSelection® and a thin tube is inserted into the fat. Even though these incisions are very small, they may be visible for the first six months.



Skin Irregularity

With the older methods of LipoSelection®, irregularities did occur due to the large instruments used. Nowadays smaller instruments are used so this is less likely to occur. It is important to wear compression garments in order to allow the skin to heal evenly.



Numbness
It is common to have numbness following LipoSelection® due to trauma of the nerves under the skin. This condition will gradually improve and return to normal.



Pain

Some tenderness and discomfort is to be expected following LipoSelection®. Any pain will greatly improve after the first week. Take regular pain relief as prescribed.



Loose Skin

Following liposhaping, scar tissue is created under the skin. This enables the skin to “shrink”. The younger and more elastic the skin, the better it shrinks. However, even older, less elastic skin will shrink to some extent.



Reaction to the local anaesthetic

This is rare but may occur.


 

Can LipoSelection® be performed under LOCAL Anaesthetic?

Yes. Small areas can be successfully treated under local anaesthetic. Typical areas are abdomen, ankles and touch up areas. Under local anaesthesia, you’ll feel some vibration and friction during the procedure. You may feel a stinging sensation as the cannula moves closer to the muscle. You will be given a prescription for a pre-medication to take prior to your procedure. Once you arrive and the areas have been marked out, you will be given an injection into your thigh for pain relief. You are required to have someone drive you to and from your surgery.



How does LipoSelection® differ under Intravenous Sedation?


The procedure itself does not alter. The difference is that you are asleep throughout the entire procedure. You cannot go home straight away as there is some recovery time required at the clinic. The cost is greater as there is an anaesthetist fee involved. You are also required to have a driver to and from your surgery and must have someone stay with you for the first 24 hours.



Who measures me for my garment?

Your pre-operative photos and garment measurements will be taken by a Registered Nurse. An appointment will be made for you prior to your surgery date. During this consultation any further questions you have thought of since your consultation with the Doctor should be addressed. Your procedure consent will be signed at this appointment.

How long should I wear the support garment?


All garments should be worn constantly for the first week and then 12 hours per day during the second week. Your garment helps to control bleeding, swelling and helps your skin shrink to fit your new contour. You may need to wear your garment for 3 weeks, depending on the area treated. The only exception is for chin liposhaping, where the garment is worn constantly for the first 3 days and 12 hours a day for the following 3 days. The garment is billed in addition to your surgical fee.



When can I expect to see results?


In most cases a change is noticed immediately. The best results show after 3 months, but during this time you can expect to see continual improvement.



How long do I need off work?

Some people go back to work the next day. Most people return to work within a few days, although a week off is certainly more pleasant.



What happens if I put on weight?


If weight gain occurs, the remaining fat cells will increase. This means you will gain weight more evenly, rather than accumulating it in the same area.



If I have LipoSelection® to one area will I automatically get fatter in another spot?


No. This is a common misconception. If you gain weight overall, you may put it on in other areas. If however, you do not gain weight, you will not automatically get bigger elsewhere.



How many times can I have LipoSelection®?

There is no limit. However, the best results are obtained the first time. After the first LipoSelection®, scarring occurs which makes the fat more difficult to remove during further procedures.



When can I exercise after LipoSelection®?

Within your level of comfort, you may exercise after one week. However, do not over do it!

 LipoSelection® can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence, but it won't necessarily change your looks to suit your ideal. The results are permanent, providing you eat sensibly and exercise regularly.

 Most patients are very satisfied with the results of their LipoSelection® - they feel more comfortable in a wide variety of clothes, and more at ease with their bodies. As long as your expectations are realistic, you should be happy with your new shape.