Liposuction Surgery

Liposuction improves the body's shape because it removes unwanted fat deposits from specific areas, for both women and men. Through a tiny incision, small tubes or cannulas are used to suction away the fat build up.

Length of the procedure: 2to 3 hrs Type of anesthesia: local plus sedation or general Hospital staying: 5 to 6 hrs Postoperative stay in Costa Rica: 7 days.

Suction lipoplasty is not a substitute for weight reduction but it is a method that allows the removal of localized fat that doesn't respond to dieting or exercise. It is a contouring procedure that removes bulges to blend body outlines more aesthetically. Liposuction is typically performed after targeted fat cells are infused with a saline solution containing adrenalin to decrease the blood loss, allowing an easier removal of the fat and diminishing postoperative discomfort. The most common areas for liposuction are chin, cheeks, neck, upper arms, upper and lower abdomen, flank areas (love handles), inner thighs, outer thighs (saddlebags), buttocks, knee area and calves.

There are various types of techniques used for liposuction; the "traditional" method that Dr. Chavarría performs continues to be the most common procedure performed by plastic surgeons in the world.

As with most types of surgery, liposuction requires anaesthesia. But the type of anaesthesia depends upon how much of the body is being worked on. For small areas, the doctor can use local anaesthesia (which numbs only the area involved). Usually, the doctor administers a sedative (either orally or via injection) along with the local anaesthesia to relax the patient. Alternately, Dr. Chavarria may give the patient an epidural, which is given intravenously and blocks sensation to an entire part of the body (for example, from the waist down). General anaesthesia may also be used in a hospital setting when a large amount of fat is to be removed. With most liposuction procedures performed today, the doctor injects a local anaesthesia as part of a fluid mixture.

A small incision is then made in the area which will be treated and a small, straw-like cannula connected to a suction machine is inserted into the fatty layers. Using to and fro movements, the unwanted fatty deposits are evenly and thoroughly drawn through the cannula into a collection system. An elastic garment is then worn for compression and healing.

After a liposuction, Dr. Chavarria usually recommends a recovery period of at least 8 days that you will have to spend in Costa Rica. Take into consideration that the time you spend in the country can be expanded to your needs especially if you wish to go on a little vacation before having surgical treatment performed and take the opportunity to see some of our natural wonders.

The price of a liposuction surgery varies from patient to patient thus, an initial consultation with Dr. Chavarría is essential before deciding if you will benefit from this treatment.

More information about this procedure can be found here