Liposuction (Lipoplasty)

About the Procedure

Liposuction is used to remove localized excess fat deposits that are resistant to dieting and exercise. The areas of fat are removed by thin tubes that are inserted into the body fat via small incisions. The tubes are attached to a vacuum pump that sucks the fat out from those areas. Liposuction is performed beneath the chin, on the flanks, hips, abdomen, inner/outer thighs, knees, and lower legs. In men enlarged male breasts (gynecomastia), arms, neck and face are also treated with liposuction. Liposuction can also remove sweat glands in the under arm area to reduce excessive sweating.

Also known as lipoplasty, liposuction slims and reshapes specific areas of the body by removing excess fat deposits, improving your body contours and proportion, and ultimately, enhancing your self-image.

What to Know Before the Procedure

An incision is made over the area where localized fat deposit is to be removed. A thin tube is inserted to suction out the fat that lies beneath the skin. The tube is moved back and forth to dislodge and break the fat cells. The incisions are made very carefully to keep them as inconspicuous as possible. Large amounts of fluids and some blood can be lost along with fat, which are replenished by intravenous fluids during and after liposuction surgery. Sometimes, a tummy tuck is performed in combination with liposuction to remove localized fat deposits.

Liposuction is usually performed on an out-patient basis. Patients go home 1-2 hours after the procedure. Stitches are removed after 7-10 days after liposuction. Liposuction removes fat cells permanently. However, if the patient gains more than 10% of their weight back, then the remaining fat cells increase in size and fat accumulates in other areas of the body where liposuction was not performed. Patients will normally see 90% of results within 3 months of surgery. These results can be maintained for a lifetime by eating sensibly and exercising regularly.

What to Know After the Procedure

Elastic bandages or a compression garment can be used to control swelling and compress the skin to the new contours of the body. Also, small temporary drains may be used to remove any excess blood or fluid. Secondary procedures are sometimes needed to reduce excess skin. Special considerations need to be taken when more than 5 liters of fat are removed.

Liposuction costs are prohibitive in plastic surgery. Prices can vary substantially based on experience, the type of procedure and geographic location. A plastic surgeon's experience is just as important as the final cost of the liposuction. It may take months for the swelling to fully disappear after surgery. The results will continue as long as weight and a healthy lifestyle are maintained. Significant weight gain can reverse results.

If you Need to Travel Outside of your Local Hospital

Because of the varying costs of the procedure a patient should research their options for treatment both domestically and abroad. Depending on the type of liposuction procedure desired one option may be clearly better for you than the other. Speak with several doctors, explain any concerns you may have with them regarding pre and post-operative care, and ask to see before-and-after photographs of previous patients before making a decision.