Liposuction or Liposculpture
Liposuction or Liposculpture
Prodcedure:
Varies according to the treatment areaAnaesthesia:
General or local anaesthesiaHospitalisation:
Outpatient or (inpatient) 1 nightBack to Work:
2-4 weeks depending on the job and daily activitiesCost:
Depends on the surgical treatment planIntroduction
Liposuction is a procedure used to remove unwanted, stubborn pockets of fat in areas where diet and exercise are ineffective. Liposuction can be combined with the fat transfer technique by extracting and grafting fat cells to sculpt and enhance other areas of the body.
How is Liposuction performed?
During liposuction, tiny incisions are made in the area(s) with an accumulation of excess fat. Through these incisions, a thin, hollow tube (cannula) connected to a surgical vacuum is inserted to break up fat and suction it out of the body. We apply the SAFE-lipo technique at our clinic, which works in three phases: Separation of fat deposits, aspiration, and equalisation of the remaining tissue. This technique is highly effective at creating smooth, even contours.
What type of cannula and surgical vacuum is used in Liposuction?
Various devices can be used in liposuction It is essential to discuss the technique options beforehand as this choice influences the level of complexity and difficulty for the surgeon. Choosing a surgeon who specialises in a technique which matches the patient’s requirements, achieves better quality results.
Who is an ideal candidate for Liposuction?
Liposuction is an ideal treatment for patients with stubborn areas of fat which are hard to shift with diet or exercise. However, it is not suitable for individuals suffering from eating disorders or body dysmorphic disorder.
What are the risks of Liposuction? Have the risks reduced with the advancement of modern techniques?
Although complications are uncommon, liposuction carries an element of risk as with all surgery. General complications include: infections, allergic reactions, tissue damage, and bruising with persistent swelling. In other cases, there may be more specific complications related directly to the treatment, such as fat embolism syndrome (in rare cases). We advise patients consult only board-certified plastic surgeons who practise in accredited facilities. Facilities should provide a qualified anaesthesiologist to monitor the patient throughout surgery, and be equipped to administer clot-dissolving medication after surgery, if appropriate.
Can fat cells be re-injected to shape other areas of the body?
After liposuction, it is possible to ‘re-use’ the unwanted fat as a natural filler in other parts of the body, known as lipofilling or fat grafting. Fat grafting is used to fill hollow or visibly aged areas; rejuvenate the appearance of skin (fat cells are naturally rich in stem cells), and enhance the volume in breasts, lips and cheekbones.
Who is an ideal candidate for Liposuction?
Ideal candidates for this type of procedure have localised fat deposits, realistic expectations of the outcome of surgery, and a healthy diet and exercise regime. Liposuction is not a substitute for a healthy diet. It is inherent that the patient understands that maintaining the results after surgery requires adopting healthy lifestyle choices for the future.
How noticeable is scarring after surgery?
Liposuction typically leaves barely noticeable residual scarring. The incision lines are just a few millimetres in length and placed in discreet areas.
Which areas of the body can be treated?
The abdominal and pubic area, hips, inner and outer thighs (saddlebags) are the areas that yield the best results with liposuction. It is also an effective treatment to remove fat from the buttocks, under the chin, arms, calves and ankles.