What is liposuction?

Liposuction, also known as lipoplasty, is a type of cosmetic surgery which removes the fat from various parts of your body. Liposuction can be used to target a range of areas, most commonly the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, neck, chin, upper and backs of the arms, calves and the back area. Liposuction can target stubborn, unwanted fat deposits. This procedure is not a weight-loss tool and is not a treatment for obesity. Liposuction does not remove cellulite, dimples, or stretch marks.

This procedure is not recommended for patients who are on certain medications; or patients who are obese, as surgeons can only remove a limited amount of fat.

What happens during a liposuction?

Your plastic surgeon will have a consultation with you to discuss your goals, options and the details of your liposuction procedure. Once all of the details have been agreed upon and confirmed, a date for the liposuction procedure is set.

General anaesthetic is usually administered before the procedure. Once the anaesthetic has taken effect, the surgeon will make incisions to reach the target areas. A small suction tube is inserted through the incisions and fat is suctioned away from beneath the skin. Once the procedure is completed, the surgeon may leave the incisions open and the surgical drains may be attached to prevent a build up of fluid in the area. Alternatively, your plastic surgeon may partially close the sutures and apply a dressing.

A liposuction procedure usually takes 1-2 hours and you should not feel any pain throughout the procedure as you are under general anaesthetic. However, larger areas may take longer. Patients are usually discharged after the procedure, but some may spend a night in the hospital. You may experience some numbness, tingling, swelling, bruising, and discomfort. The bruising will usually disappear within 4-weeks, but swelling may last for up to 5-months post-procedure. The other symptoms will usually subside after a week and you are able to return to semi-normal activities after 2-3 days. The skin will contract and shrink up to 12-months post-procedure, so you may not see the full results for up to 12-months post-procedure.

Patients are advised to keep the wounds clean, and dry. Your plastic surgeon may also recommend for you to wear special compression clothing.

How do I find the right surgeon?

The best way is to speak to a few plastic surgeons and find out which surgeon you are most comfortable with. At Holiday Health, we can connect you to reputable and reliable cosmetic surgeons. We strongly suggest you take into consideration that the surgeon you choose:

• is reputable and trustworthy;
• has a proven track record;
• is registered with or accredited by their local government or the governing medical body or association;
• has never been disqualified from practicing anywhere in the world;
• has never been found guilty of endangering a patient’s life; and
• has never been found guilty of malpractice.

You should also include any preferences you might have. For example, you might be more comfortable with a female surgeon, or someone who has more experience. This is often combined with other procedures and is referred to a mommy makeover. Click here to find out more info.

Important 

Before your procedure, you will have the opportunity to discuss your goals and the results you would like to achieve with your plastic surgeon. Communication is vital in reaching your goals. Ensure you communicate your vision clearly to your plastic surgeon and re-confirm the intended procedure to ensure there is no miscommunication. Your plastic surgeon will work with you to reach an understanding about what you can expect from this procedure, and what long-term benefits and side-effects you may experience. Every patient is different, and your specialist will choose the surgical technique and treatment plan that is right for you.

Your plastic surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and which vitamins and medications should be taken or avoided.

Please note. The information found on this website is purely for educational purposes only and should not be relied upon for its exactness or for its accuracy for your specific situation and/or for your specific procedure. The information provided is not a substitute for advice from your physician / surgeon as it may not contain all the known facts, risks and side effects of this procedure. Please consult with your physician / surgeon about your personal circumstances and about your personal procedure / treatment plan. We take no responsibility for any misinformation, inaccuracies, or for any loss or damage suffered by you in relation to the services we provide to you, or the information provided on our website.