When to have a liposuction

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery that is recommended in cases where it is not possible, through a balanced diet and regular physical exercise, to eliminate localized fat in places such as hips, thighs, butt, neck or belly.

However, liposuction is not only used to improve the shape and silhouette of the body, it can be part of the treatment of some health problems such as lymphoedema, gynecomastia, lipodystrophy or lipedema, for example.

Find out the price and see how this surgery is done at: Liposuction.

What type of liposuction is right for you

The most suitable type of liposuction varies according to the location to be treated and the amount of fat to be removed, however, the most used types include:

Tumescent liposuction: it is indicated to remove up to 2 liters of fat and, therefore, it is widely used in smaller regions such as arms, thighs, flanks or jowls. Learn more at: Tumescent liposuction. Ultrasound liposuction: this technique first uses an ultrasound device to melt fat, making it easier to remove, and is indicated for cases where it is necessary to remove more fat, such as on the upper belly, sides or back. Laser liposuction: it is a new technique that is done by applying a laser under the skin to melt the fat and aspirate at the same time. This technique must be evaluated in each case. See how it is done in: Laser liposuction.

Thus, the type of surgery should always be discussed with the plastic surgeon in order to best adapt to the needs, producing better effects.

Normally, all types of liposuction are performed under general anesthesia and, therefore, it may be necessary to stay overnight. However, in some cases of tumescent liposuction, local anesthesia may be used.

Some common regions where liposuction is performed

Risks of liposuction

As in any surgery, liposuction also has risks, but the chances of it happening are reduced. Some of the possible complications include:

Bruises, which are dark spots on the skin and cause some pain; Flaccidity of the liposuctioned area; Perforation of organs; Seroma, which is the accumulation of fluid.

Excess skin, which causes flaccidity in the aspirated region, is more common in patients with very thin skin, with a chance of developing stretch marks or in people over 50 years of age. See more about the risks at: Risks of liposuction.

This type of surgery instantly removes excess fat cells and, therefore, the result can be changed if you continue to eat excess fat, as the fat can accumulate again. Thus, liposuction should only be used after adopting a healthy lifestyle to ensure the best result, and should not be used as a treatment for excess weight, only for removing localized fat.