Liposuction

Liposuction is a procedure aimed at removing localized fat deposits, usually targeting specific areas of the body. It aims to reduce stubborn fat deposits that do not respond well to diet and exercise in order to improve shape and definition. The procedure also doesn’t target excess or sagging skin, surplus weight, deformities or cellulite. Candidates should be:

• In overall good health
• At or near their ideal weight
• Committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle

The fat targeted during the procedure is known as subcutaneous fat. Situated directly beneath the skin, this layer serves various vital functions—it acts as a natural insulator against temperature fluctuations and stores essential nutrients for energy.  As you may have observed, it tends to be thinner in facial and neck regions and denser in areas such as the back, belly, and flanks.

Desired Outcomes

It is very helpful for your surgeon to know your preferences regarding aesthetics and your desired body shape so together you can create a personalized treatment approach. For example, if you have low body fat and are looking to achieve a more tight, athletic, and defined muscular look you may opt for high definition liposuction, also known as “HD lipo.” Others looking for sculpting larger areas may opt for 360 Liposuction, which typically encompasses shaping areas throughout the entire circumference of the torso. You may need to combine liposuction with another treatment such as a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) or Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) to achieve your desired aesthetic goals. Discussing your specific goals with your physician will help determine the best procedure – or combination of treatments – for you. It is always helpful to bring in photos that reflect your desired body image. You should also review your surgeons’ before and after photos to get an idea of what outcomes may look like.

While very rare, liposuction carries risk of significant complications such as an internal puncture or a fat embolism. Select an experienced board-certified physician with extensive training in liposuction to ensure excellent results and safe outcomes. Starting a conversation with a plastic surgeon is the best way to find out if you’re a good candidate based on your general health, personal anatomy, medical history, desired outcomes, and surgical risk profile.

Liposuction (also known as suction-assisted lipectomy) is a minimally-invasive technique that uses a suction cannula to remove a relatively thin layer of fat under a wide area of skin through very small incisions. It is generally performed under local, IV sedation or general anesthesia so you’ll be comfortably sedated or temporarily unconscious.

Modern liposuction techniques often include:

• Power-assisted liposuction which uses a thin tube that vibrates to accelerate the breakdown of the fat cells
• Ultrasound-assisted liposuction uses a metal rod to emit energy that breaks down the fat
• Energy-assisted Vaser® which separates the fat before aspirating it to produce a more balanced and smooth contour
• Incorporation of non-surgical techniques such as radiofrequency, laser, or microneedling to induce skin tightening after the fat has been removed

One method is not necessarily superior to others and each has its own advantages and limitations. Your surgeon will recommend the optimal technique based on your desired outcomes, area to be treated and medical history. Discuss the pros and cons of each option to decide which method would work best for you.

Before you go

Before surgery, you and your physician should have a conversation about your goals and desired outcome. Together, you’ll review your medical history – including existing health conditions or past surgeries – medications or supplement use that may need to be temporarily stopped, and undergo required imaging or blood testing. You’ll be provided with an opportunity to learn more about the surgery, its advantages, potential risks, strategies for pain management, available alternatives, and a comprehensive overview of what to anticipate both during and after the procedure.

You should feel comfortable that all of your questions have been answered and you should never feel pressure to commit to treatments you don’t fully understand.

During the procedure

To reduce the chances of complications related to anesthesia, you will typically be asked to refrain from consuming any food or beverages after midnight on the evening preceding the surgery.

Before being prepped for surgery, you’ll have a chance to connect with your surgical team about any last minute questions.  You should not experience pain during the procedure.

Liposuction aftercare 

You will usually have to wear an abdominal binder over your belly (and/or compressive garments over treated areas such as the thighs) to help control swelling and bruising which will likely be significant in the days immediately following the surgery.  Dressings will differ depending on the exact procedure performed.

Pain following the surgery is usually managed with a combination of over-the-counter and/or prescription medicines. Your surgical team will provide comprehensive post-operative instructions in writing, along with a 24/7 contact number for questions or concerns. In most cases you will be able to go home on the same day as the surgery. Usually, everyday activities can be resumed in one to two weeks, and exercise in four to six weeks.

Results

While Liposuction can yield remarkable enhancements to body shape and contour, it will take time to see the final outcome. You may not be able to fully appreciate the aesthetic results or evaluate contour irregularities until a few weeks after the surgery.