Can fat be removed surgically? : Everything you need to know about liposuction
Considering liposuction but not sure what’s involved? At Zenith Cosmetic Clinics, we believe it’s important to have all the information at your disposal before making a decision on any body treatment.
In this blog post, we focus on liposuction, taking a close look at how it works, where on your body you can get it and what makes a good candidate. We also discuss the safety of this procedure.
What is liposuction?
Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery treatment that involves the removal of unwanted body fat. Small areas of stubborn fat are sucked out of the body through a tube. The aim of the procedure is to alter and contour body shape rather than weight loss. The results of liposuction are usually long-lasting, provided a healthy weight is maintained.
Liposuction can be used as part of a technique called a fat transfer. This is where fat deposits are removed from one area of the body and transferred to another area (for example, from the hips to the breasts). It can also be combined with a tummy tuck or face lift.
There are several different types of liposuction available, each with its own unique benefits. The right kind for you will depend on your specific concerns and desired outcome. It’s best to discuss your options with your surgeon in order to make the right choice for you.
How does liposuction work?
Simple surgical liposuction is carried out by a qualified plastic surgeon. It usually requires general anaesthesia. However, sometimes epidural anaesthesia is used if the lower body is being treated.
As part of this procedure, the surgeon will:
- Administer anaesthesia – this may be injected into a vein in the arm or given via a gas that you breathe in through a mask
- Inject a diluted local anaesthetic and medicine to minimise bleeding and trauma
- Make a small, inconspicuous incision in the area where fat is to be removed
- Insert a thin hollow suction tube attached to a vacuum machine
- Move the tube back and forth in a controlled manner in order to loosen and extract fat.
In addition to simple surgical liposuction, there are several other types available. These include:
- Vibration based liposuction – This involves the use of a vibrating handpiece to soften fat before it is extracted. It can make liposuction surgery shorter and more efficient.
- Heat based liposuction – This minimally invasive body sculpting procedure is a gentler alternative to ordinary liposuction. Known as BodyTite™, it uses radiofrequency technology to soften, shrink and tighten loose tissue. It can negate the need for surgery in some cases. It is performed while awake and usually requires minimal downtime afterwards.
- Ultrasound based liposuction – Known as Vaser liposuction, this procedure involves vibrating fat to emulsify it in order to remove it gently. It is often used as part of a fat transfer. Vaser HD, also known as Vaser 4D, is also available. This involves stripping away fat to create defined abdominal muscles and limbs.
- Water based liposuction – Known as BodyJet™, this procedure involves using a water jet to strip fat from the tissues. Water based liposuction is often used as part of a fat transfer but it does not have the tightening effect of heat based methods.
Where can you get liposuction on your body?
Liposuction is performed on areas of the body where fat tends to collect. Common areas for this treatment include:
- Buttocks
- Abdomen
- Hips
- Upper arms
- “Love handles” – waist and flanks
- Thighs
- Lower legs
- Neck
- Chin
- Back
- Face.
Liposuction is designed to be used on stubborn deposits of fat that cannot be removed by diet or exercise alone.
Who is a good candidate for liposuction?
Liposuction can be a good option for men and women looking to get rid of stubborn fat deposits that cannot be removed by lifestyle changes. If this sounds like you, you may be a suitable candidate for liposuction. However, it’s important to note that liposuction isn’t a treatment for obesity and shouldn’t be used as a weight loss substitute. It also does not get rid of stretch marks or cellulite.
To have liposuction, you must be in good general health and for best results, you should:
- be a normal weight
- have good skin elasticity
- have good muscle tone
- not have a lot of excess skin
- be a non-smoker.
You may not be a suitable candidate for liposuction if you:
- have a high BMI – this is because people with a high BMI are at greater risk of complications from surgery
- have an underlying health condition, such as diabetes, high blood pressure or asthma
- have saggy or excess skin
- have a weak immune system
- take medications that can increase the risk of heavy bleeding, such as blood thinners.
If you’re not sure if liposuction is the right option for you, you should consult a qualified plastic surgeon for personalised advice.
Is liposuction safe?
Liposuction has been around for over 40 years and has a good safety record. However, like all surgical procedures, it does carry certain risks, such as infection, scarring and loss of sensation. There are also risks associated with anaesthetic, such as allergic reaction and blood clots. However, these risks are very unlikely.
Whether or not to have liposuction is a very personal decision. It’s a good idea to find out as much as possible about the procedure, weigh up the pros and cons and discuss any concerns you have with an experienced plastic surgeon before making a final decision.
