Is liposuction the answer to your belly fat problem or is there a better way for you?

Liposuction, also known as lipoplasty ("fat modeling"), liposculpture suction lipectomy or simply lipo ("suction-assisted fat removal") is a cosmetic surgery operation that removes fat from many different sites on the human body. Areas affected can range from the abdomen, thighs and buttocks, to the neck, backs of the arms and elsewhere. Suction-assisted lipectomy of bilateral outer thighs

Several factors limit the amount of fat that can be safely removed in one session. Ultimately, the operating physician and the patient make the decision. There are negative aspects to removing too much fat. Unusual "lumpiness" and/or "dents" in the skin can be seen in those patients "over-suctioned". The more fat removed, the higher the surgical risk.

The safety of the technique relates not only to the amount of tissue removed, but to the choice of anesthetic and the patient's overall health. It is ideal for the patient to be as fit as possible before the procedure and not to have smoked for several months.

Not everyone is a good candidate for liposuction. It is not a good alternative to dieting or exercising. To be a good candidate, one must usually be over 18 and in good general health, have tried a diet and exercise regime, and have found that the last 10 or 15 pounds persist in certain pockets on the body. Diabetes, any infection, heart or circulation problems, generally nullify one's eligibility for the procedure. In older people, the skin is usually less elastic, limiting the ability of the skin to readily tighten around the new shape. In this case, other procedures can be added to the liposuction, such as an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck).

A side effect, as opposed to a complication, is medically minor, although it can be uncomfortable, annoying, and even painful.

* Bruising: can be painful in the short term, and should fade after a few weeks.

* Swelling: should subside gradually over a month or two.

* Scars: will vary in size depending on the particular procedure, and should fade over the weeks.

Scarring is an individual thing, partly dependent on heredity. For some, scar healing may take as long as a year.

* Pain: should be temporary and controlled by either over-the-counter medication, or by a prescription.

* Numbness: sometimes persists for a few weeks.

* Limited mobility: will depend on the exact procedure.

There could be various factors limiting movement for a short while, such as:

* Wearing a compression garment

* Keeping the head elevated

* Temporary swelling or pain

The surgeon should advise on how soon the patient can resume normal activity.

What's the cost? Could run you around $5,000 for the procedure (costs will be higher depending on the complexity of the procedure).

There are some alternatives to lipo for getting rid of belly fat. So what's the magic formula for reducing your belly fat?

Ultimately, while there are a few basic principles to keep in mind when it comes to nutrition and weight loss, losing belly fat requires that you take in fewer calories than you burn. Don't be seduced into following an overly complicated diet masquerading under the guise of a "new and revolutionary" approach to weight loss.

Here are some basic tips for losing belly fat.

1. Don't eat too fast - Eating quickly and not chewing your food well can cause air swallowing that leads to bloating. So slow down and enjoy your food. Your meals should last at least 30 minutes. Also, keep in mind that digestion begins in the mouth, and you can decrease bloating just by chewing your food more. There's another benefit to slowing things down:

When you take your time to thoroughly chew and taste your food, your snack or meal becomes more satisfying. And studies have shown that if you eat more slowly, you may end up eating less.

2. Don't overdo carbonated drinks - The fizz in carbonated drinks (even diet ones) can cause gas to get trapped in your belly. Instead, drink water flavored with lemon, lime, or cucumber. Or just reduce the number of fizzy drinks you consume each day. Try some peppermint tea for a soothing beverage that may help reduce bloat.

3. Eat smaller meals more often - Instead of three big meals per day, try eating smaller meals more often. This can keep you free of the bloated feeling that often follows large meals (think Thanksgiving). Eating more frequently can also help control blood sugar and manage hunger.

So go for five to six small meals each day, but make sure the quantity of food and calories are proportionate to your needs. To create a daily meal plan that includes the recommended amounts of all major nutrients, visit the U.S. Department of Agriculture's "my pyramid" web site.

4. Exercise

Perform proper crunches at least 3 times a week to train your abs. Avoid sit-ups because they really do very little to firm your stomach. Sit-ups work your hip flexors more than anything else. Walk/jog for 30 minutes at least 3 times per week to boost your metabolism in order to burn that fat.

5. Adjust your attitude

Ride out a craving. A cookie might make a stressful day feel brighter - but before giving in hold off a little before indulging. If you still want the cookie after 15 minutes, go ahead and eat it. Waiting helps develop the capacity to delay gratification.

Finally, you'll need to be consistent. To lose belly fat, eating right and exercising regularly needs to become a habit, not just something you do when you can be bothered or when you "have the time." If your current schedule makes it difficult to find the time for exercise, change it. Get out of bed earlier. Turn off the TV. Stop wasting time on Facebook.

Liposuction although as appealing as it is may not be the right way to go for you. If you follow some basic guidelines ans stick with it you can lose your belly fat and keep the $5,000 or so dollars you would spend on a nice vacation. You will also be healthier and happier that you did it with-out surgery.