Childhood Struggles and Body Image

When I was 27 years old, I underwent a liposuction procedure performed by Dr. Karthik in a hospital in Chennai. I chose this procedure because I had been labeled as "chubby" and "fat" since childhood, and my body had a feminine appearance. This made me extremely self-conscious, especially in Kerala, where it's customary to visit temples without shirts. I avoided going to temples and faced direct and indirect insults from my family. I will explain my journey in detail so this will help you if you are thinking about this for a while.

Failed Attempts at Weight Loss

I tried almost every gym I knew but struggled with consistency. Even when I did manage to go regularly, I felt I would never fully get rid of my fat and would still look unfit. Swimming was another attempt to lose weight, but it brought its own set of challenges as I had to remove my shirt, leading to ridicule from others.

Overcoming Financial and Family Barriers to Plastic Surgery

As a child, I never considered plastic surgery seriously because it seemed too expensive, and I knew my family wouldn't support it. I also believed it was only for actors, actresses, and the wealthy. However, once I started earning my own salary, I felt this might be the solution to my problem. Despite my earnings, the cost still seemed prohibitive, and I was afraid of my family's disapproval.

Before Liposuction: My Initial Condition

From Unsatisfactory Consultations to Finding the Right Surgeon

Taking a leap of faith, I visited a plastic surgeon, albeit not very seriously. The consultation was disappointing; the doctor didn't examine me properly and the quoted price for liposuction cost was too high for me to afford at that time. It wasn't until two years later, in 2020, that I met another surgeon who addressed all my doubts. By then, I was 27 years old and determined to proceed, even if it meant taking a loan, as the Liposuction Cost in India is around 2.24 lakhs.

After securing a loan, I visited the doctor again and scheduled my Liposuction Surgery . The doctor seemed trustworthy and didn't overcharge, which gave me some confidence to proceed. I underwent the procedure without a bystander, relying on the hospital staff. However, I recommend having a family member or friend present for support and to help with post-surgery needs.

Price quote

I was provided with two options, and the price quotes are displayed below. Please note that this quote is for the liposuction surgery cost in india in the year 2020. For privacy reasons, the hospital name is not displayed. Prices may vary depending on the hospital and the time.

Option 1

S.No.	Procedures	*** Hospital (INR)
S.No.	Procedures	*** / India
1	Liposuction of Tummy , Lower Back , Upper Back	140000
	18% GST - Mandated by Govt of India	25200
	Compression Garment - approx	12000
	Total	177200

Option 2

S.No.	Procedures	*** Hospital (INR)
S.No.	Procedures	*** / India
1	Liposuction of Tummy , Lower Back , Upper Back and Chest	180000
	18% GST - Mandated by Govt of India	32400
	Compression Garment - approx	12000
	Total	224400

The package excludes post-operative medications. I have chosen option 2, which includes gynecomastia treatment.

Preparing for Liposuction Surgery

The night before the surgery was filled with tension. I was instructed not to eat or drink after a certain time and to wash my body with a betadine scrub. Unable to sleep due to anxiety, I arrived at the hospital the next day. They asked me basic questions about my medical history and habits like smoking or drinking. It's advised to quit smoking and drinking a few days before surgery to avoid complications.

The Day of Surgery

From my picture above, the doctor suggested gynecomastia surgery and liposuction for my stomach, flanks, and back. During the consultation, these procedures were recommended to address my concerns. In the operating theatre, they gave me general anesthesia, which was a bit scary but necessary for the surgery.

Immediate Liposuction Post-Surgery Experience

The procedures took about 3 hours and 15 minutes. Waking up from anesthesia was uncomfortable and disturbing, with intense cold, shivering, and body pain. After a few hours, the pain became more bearable but was still significant. They provided me with juice and food (idli and nuts).

Drain tubes were inserted in my lower and back stomach areas, and there was a lot of fluid oozing out, soaking the bed sheets. Feeling uncomfortable, I mistakenly got up and walked around, causing more fluid to ooze and creating a mess. The doctor advised against this as it could lead to fainting. Always seek help from a nurse or bystander when moving around post-surgery.

First Night of Recovery and Hospital Discharge

The initial night was difficult, and I only managed to sleep around 2 or 3 AM. The next day, the pain was more manageable. I was asked to stay in the hospital for three days and was given post-operative medicines, including vitamins and collagen powders, which cost around 8k. On the third day, they removed my drain tubes, and I was discharged.

Hotel Recovery and Initial Follow-Up

Back at my hotel, I struggled with constipation, eventually finding relief with over-the-counter medication. Walking was painful initially but improved over time. On the seventh day, I had my first follow-up, where the plasters were removed, revealing my body. I felt mixed emotions—happy with some results but disappointed with the shape of my flanks and back. The doctor explained that they couldn't remove all the fat due to risks and that it might take 1-2 months to see the Liposuction Before and After final results.

Liposuction Before and After results

The images on the left are before surgery, and the images on the right are from day 7 with plaster removal, so one can see the residual plaster marks in the below photos.

Evaluating Results and Considering Additional Procedures

After two months, the flanks and lower back looked the same as on day seven, so I consulted the doctor again. He explained that the loose skin from the liposuction hadn't retracted. He suggested a tummy tuck procedure for the lower stomach, back, and flanks. After researching, I decided this was the right choice for me. I recommend discussing thoroughly with your doctor whether you need just liposuction or a combination of liposuction and tummy tuck.

Liposuction results - post 3 months from surgery

Final Advice and Well Wishes

Your journey to a confident and healthy body is a testament to your determination and resilience. Every step you take brings you closer to your goals. Embrace the process, trust in your choices, and believe in your strength. Wishing you all the best in achieving a confident and healthy body!