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Facial Liposuction: Is it Right for You?
There is very little in dieting or exercise that can help lessen the fat deposits in your neck, chin, cheeks or jaw line. Facial liposuction can make a significant change in your appearance by eliminating excess fat from these areas.
The initial step for facial liposuction is to make an appointment with a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in cosmetic surgery. His examination will determine whether or not you are a good candidate for this procedure. During this consultation, all your questions should be answered to your satisfaction. You will discuss the amount of fat you think needs to be removed, and what to expect after surgery. You will be informed of the different types of anesthesia, and will have to choose between being an outpatient in a hospital or a clinic.
Facial
Liposuction Procedure
A pre-operative physical exam by your primary physician, which includes
blood work, an electrocardiogram, and any other tests determined necessary
by the plastic surgeon, is part of the process.
Facial liposuction is performed with a device called a micro-cannula, which works much the same as a vacuum cleaner. Small incisions are made under the jaw line and chin, and the cannula is inserted in the cut to remove the fat. The cannula may or may not inject a pain reliever. The procedure takes from 45 minutes to one hour. When the desired amount of fat has been suctioned out, the incisions are closed with very fine sutures, adhesive spray or steri-strips. Although the incisions are made in inconspicuous places, an anti-biotic ointment is typically used to prevent any potential scarring, and pressure dressing is usually applied.
The After-Effects of Facial Liposuction
Some bruising, swelling, pain, numbness, pulling or burning in the incision
areas can be expected after facial liposuction. In certain cases, more
significant consequences, such as deterioration of surrounding tissue,
pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lung), infection, major blood loss
and allergic reaction to anesthesia and/or medications can result from
the surgery.
Post-Operative Care
A mild pain medication as well as an anti-inflammatory pill (such as ibuprophen)
is often prescribed. One should avoid exertion for about 1-2 weeks, and
keep the head elevated on pillows as much as possible, as the doctor recommends.
Usually patients are out of work until bruising, pain and swelling subsides,
which approximates 2 weeks. You may not see the full effect of the surgery
for several months after the procedure.
Although considered a minimally invasive procedure, facial liposuction is known to cause discomfort, bruising and swelling. Be sure to consider all the information provided to you before making a definite decision.
“The face that launched a thousand ships...” This statement by Christopher Marlowe in Dr.Faustus is a reference to Helen of Troy, a heroine believed to be the most beautiful woman of her time. Although we cannot all resemble Helen, we can try.
Carol C. is an Registered Nurse with experience in many areas of nursing who specializes in mental health and addictions. Her articles allow her the opportunity to share her knowledge and expertise on many health subjects.
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