Liposuction is a procedure that removes excess fat from certain areas of the body using a vacuum method to achieve smoother body contours. This allows stubborn fat deposits to be removed, giving the body a more proportionate appearance. Contrary to common belief, liposuction is not a weight-loss surgery but a contouring procedure.

Factors affecting liposuction success

The success of liposuction depends on the patient’s skin elasticity, weight, and realistic expectations from the procedure. It should not be considered a miraculous weight-loss method. While exercise and strict dieting reduce the volume of fat cells, they do not reduce the number of fat cells. Liposuction, however, reduces the number of fat cells by removing them from the body.

Which areas can liposuction be applied to?

Liposuction can target the abdomen, waist, hips, thighs, knees, ankles, arms, breasts, face, and chin.

Who is a suitable candidate for liposuction?

The ideal candidates are those close to their ideal weight or slightly above it, with localized fat deposits that cannot be removed through diet or exercise, especially in areas like the hips, thighs, abdomen, and waist.

Skin elasticity and firmness, as well as smoking status, also affect the outcome.

Are liposuction results permanent?

Results are permanent as long as the patient maintains their weight. If weight is gained later, fat accumulation will not occur in the treated areas to the same extent.

How long does the surgery take?

The procedure typically lasts 1–3 hours, depending on the area and extent of fat removal. Surgery can be performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the regions treated.

How is the surgery performed?

Liposuction is performed using cannulas of various sizes connected to a vacuum device. Small millimeter-sized incisions are made to allow the cannulas to enter, leaving minimal visible scarring. Techniques include laser liposuction, Vaser liposuction, ultrasound-assisted liposuction, wet (tumescent), and dry liposuction. At our clinic, Vaser Liposuction is preferred.

Postoperative care and considerations

Pain is usually mild and managed with painkillers. Patients are typically discharged the same day or the next day. Most can return to work within 2–3 days.

Swelling and bruising may occur and generally resolve within 2 weeks. Full resolution of swelling and final contouring takes approximately 6–12 months. Massage and other supportive treatments may be recommended during this period.

Wearing a compression garment for the first month after surgery is recommended to achieve optimal results.

Maintaining a proper diet and exercise regimen is important post-surgery. Excessive eating can lead to weight gain in other areas, although fat in treated areas will not accumulate as much. Weight gain, if it occurs, will be proportional between treated and untreated areas.

Possible complications of liposuction

Rarely, fat embolism can occur if removed fat enters the bloodstream, posing a serious risk. Early mobilization after surgery is recommended to minimize this risk.

Long-term complications may include irregularities or dimpling in the treated areas. These issues arise from excessive or uneven fat removal or insufficient skin elasticity.