Liposuction: FAQ’s

With its origins now spanning nearly a half-century to the late 1960s, liposuction has stood the test of time as an effective body contouring technique. However, today many misconceptions abound in regard to appropriate uses, safety standards and realistic results for this popular procedure.

Melbourne-based plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr Damon Thomas answers some of your most Frequently Asked Questions to help clear up what’s true and false about liposuction.

WHAT IS LIPOSUCTION?

Liposuction is a body contouring procedure that can remove localised deposits of fat cells from almost any area of the body. The procedure has evolved significantly in recent years, with advanced techniques including power-assisted liposuction that offer improved results with less trauma to the body and shorter recovery times.

Dr Thomas offers a variety of liposuction techniques at the Melbourne Institute of Plastic Surgery, allowing him to customise treatment to the unique needs and desired outcomes for each of his patients.

WHAT IS INVOLVED IN A LIPOSUCTION PROCEDURE?

A liposuction procedure involves injecting sterile saline mixed with local anaesthetic into the fat stores to be removed. A narrow tube called a cannula is then inserted, which loosens the fat so it can be suctioned out of the body. Incisions for this procedure are small and, with proper scar management post-procedure, can leave minimal scarring.

CAN LIPOSUCTION BE USED FOR WEIGHT LOSS?

Perhaps the most common misconception about liposuction is that it is an effective weight loss tool. Liposuction is designed for removing localised, stubborn pockets of fat from certain areas of the body that cannot be budged through diet and exercise. Liposuction can achieve improved body contours, but it cannot achieve overall body weight loss. Good candidates for liposuction are at or near their preferred weight.

WHICH AREAS OF THE BODY CAN BE TREATED WITH LIPOSUCTION?

Liposuction can be performed on almost all areas of the body – and sometimes in places you might not expect. The most frequently treated areas for women are the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs, arms, buttocks and neck.

Around 15-25% of liposuction patients are men, who are most commonly treated in areas including the chin and neck, abdomen, love handles and chest.

ARE THERE ANY RISKS INVOLVED WITH LIPOSUCTION SURGERY?

The risks of liposuction increase with the amount of fat that is removed. The most dangerous aspects of the procedure are trying to remove too much fat from a single location or trying to remove fat from too many different areas at once. Choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon, following aftercare instructions and attending all follow-up visits will help reduce risks.

Issues that can potentially occur with any surgical procedure include infections, bleeding, skin ulcerations or nerve damage.

AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR LIPOSUCTION?

Liposuction is typically recommended for patients who have already achieved a healthy, stable weight and are not looking to liposuction as a weight loss solution. Good skin elasticity also helps improve results because, while liposuction removes excess fat cells, it is not effective in tightening skin in the treatment area.

Liposuction can be effective for people who experience:

• Isolated deposits of fat that will not respond to diet and exercise
• Clothing that doesn’t fit quite right due to stubborn bulges
• Excessive bulk in areas like the breasts or buttocks

HOW QUICKLY WILL I RECOVER AFTER LIPOSUCTION?

Recovery times vary from person to person, but you can typically expect to feel sore and swollen for a few days after the procedure. Most people take about two weeks off from work or other activities to allow their bodies to heal. Compression garments are usually worn for a few weeks after liposuction to minimise bruising and swelling and encourage the healing process. 

Most people report feeling better within a few days to a week after liposuction. However, it may take up to several weeks for your body to fully recover. During this time, you may experience some bruising, swelling and soreness. Dr Thomas will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself during your recovery period.

Because fat deposits are removed from the body, liposuction is considered a permanent treatment. However, if a healthy weight is not maintained following surgery, remaining fat cells may expand at a future date and additional procedures may be required to maintain results. It is therefore critical for patients to maintain a healthy lifestyle in order to sustain their results.

WHAT SHOULD I CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING A LIPOSUCTION SURGEON?

Decisions about liposuction should not be based on the quickest or cheapest solution. Choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon who makes you feel comfortable, is able to answer all of your questions, and provides realistic expectations will help you have a satisfying experience.

Dr Damon Thomas has been practicing in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery for more than a decade. He works closely with all of his patients to help them identify their specific concerns and find the most suitable procedure for their individual needs.

To learn more about liposuction, contact Dr. Thomas at the Melbourne Institute of Plastic Surgery on 03 9034 7738.

MAKING AN INFORMED DECISION

Our website is intended to provide general information about liposuction and should not be used as a substitute for personalised medical advice. It is important to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine if liposuction is the right procedure for you. The following considerations should be part of your decision-making process.

Risks

All surgical procedures carry risk. The potential risks and complications associated with liposuction include, but are not limited to, bleeding, infection, changes in sensation, contour irregularities, fluid accumulation, internal puncture and fat embolism. It is important to understand the risks involved and weigh up the benefits and drawbacks of surgery before undergoing liposuction.

Recovery

Recovery time after liposuction may vary depending on the individual, the extent of the procedure, and the technique used. In general, patients should be prepared to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising after surgery. Patients must also be prepared to take time off work and other activities (including exercise) and follow post-operative instructions to promote proper healing and minimise the risk of complications.

Results

Individual results may vary depending on a number of factors, including the patient’s natural body shape, the amount of fat removed, and the surgical technique employed. It is critical to have realistic expectations about the outcome of liposuction and understand that each patient’s outcome will be unique. It is also important to know that liposuction is not intended to be a substitute for weight loss or replace a healthy lifestyle and exercise routine.

If you have any questions or concerns about liposuction, please do not hesitate to contact us.