Back liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that involves the removal of excess fat from the back area. It is typically performed on the upper or lower back, but can also be performed on the mid-back or the sides of the back.
The procedure is similar to other types of liposuction, and involves the use of a thin tube or cannula that is inserted through small incisions in the skin. The cannula is connected to a suction device that removes excess fat cells from the targeted area.
Dr. Faisal Salim will use a back-and-forth motion to loosen and suction out the fat cells. They will also use different-sized cannulas to contour the area and achieve the desired results.
Back liposuction is often used to address stubborn pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise and can help to achieve a more toned and shapely appearance. It is typically performed on individuals who are at or near their ideal body weight but have excess fat in the back area that has not responded to other methods of weight loss.
As with all types of liposuction, back liposuction does involve some risks and potential complications, such as bleeding, infection, and uneven results. It is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience in performing the procedure to ensure the best possible results and minimize the risk of complications.
Fat accumulation anywhere is unwanted, but its accumulation in the back can be particularly stubborn. Patients are particularly upset by the fat that appears in rolls around the bra line and also in the lower back
Dr. Faisal will assess the volume of fat and also the amount of excess skin. If there is a lot of excess skin then removing the fat will only increase the laxity and make the deformity appear worse
If there is a large excess of skin then excision is more appropriate
Dr. Faisal uses many different types of back liposuction technology. He has VASER®️, Microaire®️ and laser technology available. These are designed to improve the efficiency of the procedure and also expedite the recovery The decision to use what technology is done on a case by case basis
If there is mild skin excess, Dr. Faisal can use the J-Plasma system to tighten the skin.
Liposuction of the back is performed as a general anesthetic
It is a day procedure and you will be able to go home a few hours after the back liposuction procedure.
A small incision measuring 1.5cm will be made in the lower back and upper back. The number varies between 2-4 depending on how large the areas are
Dr. Faisal will expertly remove the excess fat. He will use his considerable experience not to overcorrect or undercorrect the fat and to give a nice even result
The incisions will be closed with dissolvable sutures and glue
You will awaken with a compression vest garment
A few hours after the completion of the back liposuction procedure you will be discharged with antibiotics and painkillers
There will be moderate amounts of pain for 4-5 days. This is well controlled with the pain killers
It is normal to have swelling after the operation. This will decrease over the first 6 weeks, and it is typical to have some residual swelling for 6 months.
You may also notice straw-coloured fluid coming out of the incision sites. This is normal. It typically stops after 48-72 hours. This fluid can sometimes collect under the skin and may need a painless aspiration in clinic
Dr. Faisal will review you in 1 week
You will be advised to start the manual lymphatic massage at this point. This improves the swelling quicker and optimizes the smoothness of the result
You can start driving after 5-7 days and most people are back to work at 5-7 days
Dr. Faisal will review you again at 2 weeks and 6 weeks
You can resume gym activities at 2-3 weeks
The compression garment is normally removed at 6 weeks
The best results are achieved for patients with a BMI<28. The closer you are to your final result, the better and more predictable your outcome will be.
Dr. Faisal recommends taking arnica tablets 1 week leading up to the operation. This will help to greatly reduce bruising
Stop smoking 3 weeks before the operation. Smoking has a harmful effect on recovery following surgery
Stop taking blood-thinning tablets such as aspirin, warfarin, and Plavix 1 week before the operation
Notify doctor Faisal of any other medical problems, such as diabetes and hypertension
Avoid heavy exercise 1 week leading up to the operation
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