Liposuction is a surgical procedure used for removing fat deposits from the body, typically from the abdomen and thighs. Not intended for weight control, liposuction can assist removal of fat from problem areas that are unaffected by exercise. There are three primary liposuction methods employed by surgeons – wet liposuction, dry (traditional) liposuction & ultrasonic assisted liposuction.

How does it work?
:: Wet liposuction – Under a general anaesthetic the patient is injected with an adrenaline and local anaesthetic mix in the area to be liposuctioned. This reduces bleeding, bruising and swelling once liposuction is complete. The surgeon then makes a small incision and inserts a cannula tube attached to a vacuum pump into the fatty area. The cannula is vigorously moved around beneath the incised skin, while the vacuum pump removes excess fat. Wet liposuction is the most popular liposuction method.

:: Dry (traditional) liposuction – This method is virtually the same as wet liposuction, except no fluids are injected prior to surgery. Extensive bleeding, swelling and bruising can result.

:: Ultrasonic assisted liposuction – Wet or dry liposuction is pre-assisted by ultrasound (sound wave) treatment, which helps break down solid fatty deposits. This method is ideal for people who require a large amount of fat to be removed. Once ultrasound treatment is complete, wet or dry liposuction is performed.

How long does surgery take?
Liposuction surgery takes approximately 1 – 2 hours to complete, but is largely dependent upon the amount of fat that needs to be removed. Patients are normally required to be under a general anaesthetic. An overnight hospital stay may be required.

What is the recovery time?
Depending upon the extent of the surgery, recovery time is anywhere from 3 – 10 days. Strenuous activity should be avoided for up to a month following the procedure, and the swelling of the body area liposuctioned may take several weeks to completely disappear.

Where can it be used?
Liposuction is a technique that can be used on various parts of the body. The abdomen and thighs are common areas where stubborn fat deposits are not easily removed and are therefore good candidate areas for liposuction.

How long will it last?
The positive effects of liposuction are long lasting, but lifestyle and diet regimes are important factors in this respect. Eating fatty foods and not taking regular exercise will rapidly build fatty deposits back up in the areas that have been liposuctioned.

Are there any side effects?
Bruising, swelling and some bleeding are to be expected from liposuction surgery, as is nausea from any general anaesthetic administered. Opting for wet liposuction will reduce the amount of bruising and swelling experienced. Scarring is likely to be visible in the area of liposuction for several months following the procedure.

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