The International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reports a 40% increase in cosmetic procedures since 2020. Liposuction remains one of the most popular procedures, yet its purpose is often misunderstood. Many people associate liposuction with weight loss, but it is not a replacement for diet or exercise.
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that uses suction to remove fat from specific areas of the body. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons states that the primary purpose of liposuction is to “contour the abdomen, hips, thighs, buttocks, and other areas” where diet and exercise alone have not been successful.
Genetics, hormones, and blood flow dictate which fat deposits are burned through natural means. Some people are left with stubborn pockets of fat even after improving their diet and exercise routines. For these individuals, liposuction can provide an effective way to permanently remove stubborn fat in combination with continued dieting and physical activity.
How Liposuction Works
Liposuction works by using a device called a cannula to remove fat from the patient’s body via suction. The cannula is connected to a specialized suction pump called a surgical vacuum and inserted into the body through small incisions.
A typical liposuction procedure involves anesthesia, incision, fat breakdown, suctioning, and closure. The surgeon manipulates the cannula to loosen the fat before it’s sucked up through the device and collected for disposal.
The basic steps of liposuction have remained the same for many years, but modern technologies have changed the way these steps are performed. Surgeons can now use various techniques to prepare fat for removal and improve the efficacy and efficiency of the surgery.
Types of Liposuction Procedures
Common types of liposuction procedures include tumescent liposuction, ultrasound-assisted liposuction, power-assisted liposuction, and laser-assisted liposuction. Each type uses different methods to liquefy or break down fat deposits before removal.
When choosing a liposuction provider, it is essential to ensure the surgeon is experienced, reputable, and qualified. In the US, only licensed physicians are permitted to perform liposuction procedures. Patients are recommended to choose a board-certified surgeon who is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Medical tourism is rising in destinations like Turkey and the UK, so it is essential to understand local licensing regulations. Qualified plastic and cosmetic surgeons will be registered with their country’s national medical council or board. For example, patients researching liposuction in Turkey should verify that their surgeon has a recognized medical degree and is registered with the Turkish Medical Association.
The main benefit of liposuction is the removal of stubborn pockets of fat that a patient has not been able to address through changes to their diet or exercise habits. Research has shown that liposuction is effective in reducing subcutaneous abdominal fat without stimulating the body to create new fat cells.
Patients must continue to eat healthily and exercise regularly post-recovery to stay in shape. The ability for liposuction to contour the body and provide a smoother and slimmer body shape has also been shown to improve patients’ quality of life post-surgery.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, patients with high pre-surgery triglyceride levels experience an average reduction in triglyceride levels post-procedure. High triglycerides can contribute to the hardening of artery walls, which can lead to an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.
While liposuction surgery is generally considered a safe and effective method of body contouring, there are some risks associated with the procedure. General risks include bruising, swelling, and infection, as with many similar medical procedures, while minor risks include temporary or permanent changes to the pigmentation and sensitivity of the skin. While rare, there are some major risks associated with liposuction surgery, namely:
- Pulmonary Embolism (PE): Movement of the cannula can damage blood vessels and cause blood clots to form; if these clots travel to the lungs, they can restrict blood flow.
- Fat Embolism Syndrome (FES): FES is a rare and potentially fatal complication that occurs when disrupted fat tissue releases lipid droplets into the bloodstream.
- Severe infection: If the cannula or wound is contaminated, “infections from cellulitis to life-threatening necrotizing fasciitis can occur after liposuction”.
Liposuction is typically performed as a private procedure, with patients able to choose their provider and pay for the treatment independently.
Post-Procedure Care and Risks
After liposuction, patients typically experience bruising, swelling, and temporary changes to skin sensitivity. Surgeons often prescribe medication to manage pain and discomfort during the recovery period.
Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the patient’s healing progress and remove stitches. Patients are advised to wear compression garments to reduce swelling and support the affected areas during recovery.
While rare, severe complications can occur, including pulmonary embolism, fat embolism syndrome, and severe infection. Patients are encouraged to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or excessive bleeding.
Long-Term Results and Maintenance
To maintain the results of liposuction, patients must adopt a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise. This helps prevent weight gain and ensures the longevity of the procedure’s effects.