Liposuction

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes localized fat deposits to improve body contour. It is not a method for significant weight loss or a treatment for obesity, and results depend on maintaining a stable weight and good skin elasticity.

It is most suitable for people who are near their ideal body weight but have persistent fat deposits resistant to diet and exercise. Common target areas include the abdomen, flanks, thighs, buttocks, arms, chin, and back. Liposuction can be performed alone or in combination with other procedures such as a tummy tuck.

Several techniques exist. Suction-assisted liposuction uses a cannula connected to a vacuum device. The most widely used form is tumescent liposuction, in which large volumes of dilute local anesthetic and vasoconstrictor are infused to numb the area and reduce bleeding. Other approaches include power-assisted liposuction, ultrasound-assisted liposuction, and laser-assisted liposuction. Choice depends on the surgeon’s experience and the patient’s needs.

Most procedures are performed under anesthesia or sedation and involve small incisions through which the cannula is inserted. Afterward, compression garments are worn for several weeks. Swelling and bruising are common. Return to normal activities varies, with final contour typically visible after several months.

Risks include contour irregularities, asymmetry, numbness, scarring, infection, seroma, bleeding, and anesthesia-related complications. Rare but serious risks include deep vein thrombosis or fat embolism. Results depend on skin elasticity and may be less satisfactory in older patients or those with poor skin retraction.

Alternatives include noninvasive fat-reduction techniques. Liposuction technology has evolved since the 1970s, with the tumescent technique popularized in the 1980s, increasing safety and enabling broader use.