Liposculpture Basics
Liposculpture is a form of cosmetic surgery in which a doctor removes fat from the body of a patient, typically for the purpose of aesthetic appeal i.e. as desired by the patient, to make themselves appear more physically attractive. This removal of fat is permanent, and when done properly, the risks of scarring or marks to the body is very low.
Surprisingly, the amount of fat removed from the body is typically on the low end of what you might expect – usually less than 10 pounds! (5 kg) However, because of the manner in which a surgeon “re-sculpts” the overlying skin above in which the fat was removed, the visual effect it creates makes it appear as it more fat has in fact been removed.
Many individuals seeking liposculpture treatment do so after being unable to create the desired physical results they are seeking through diet and exercise alone. In fact, it is ideal that liposculpture patients be fit and in good health. (In the case of smokers, this means avoiding cigarettes for several weeks to months before surgery.) Doctors are often quick to point out that liposculpture is not to be considered on par with simple weight loss methods; but it is a serious medical procedure, of which come along medical risks.
Note that the more fat removed, the larger the risks. Patients also must weigh the possibility of skin dents and a sort of lumpy look that can develop over parts of the body in which the treatment was overdone.
What areas of the body can benefit from liposculpture surgery?
Liposculpture surgery can be performed on many different parts of the body, including:
- Tummy (abdominal)
- Thighs
- Buttocks
- Waist
- Hips
- Love Handles – Flanks
- Arms
- Knees
- Saddle bags
- Face and Neck (cheek, neck, jowl)
- Breasts (as in breast reduction, typically a treatment for men with gynecomastia)
How is Liposculpture surgery actually performed?
Liposculpture is performed with the use of a high-powered suction device operated by a surgeon. First the fat cells are “disrupted” and then sucked out of the body.
To enter the body, small incisions (a quarter to a third of an inch) are placed in the skin in which the suction tube is then placed. Due to an anesthetic given to the patient beforehand, the patient feels only “scraping” type sensations as the procedure is performed.
Unlike other common forms of surgery (dental, etc), the patient is usually capable of driving themselves home safely after liposculpture surgery has been performed. It is expected that patients will then need 2-3 days of recovery time before returning to work for most treatments, but depending on the extent of fat removed and the body part(s) involved, as well as the overall health of the patient, recovery time can be up to two weeks.
Post-surgery, bruising and a swelling of the skin is common. It is also normal for the treated area to remain numb for several weeks. During this time, the patient will wear a bandage-type cloth covering the skin to reduce the severity of these conditions.
How common is Liposculpture?
Liposculpture is actually incredibly common surgery – in fact, in 2006, it was the most common plastic surgery procedure with over 400,000 patients receiving treatment. (Figure quoted from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.)
Typically, liposuction is most commonly performed:
On Women – in the thighs and abdomen
On Men – in the abdomen and flanks (love handles)
Is Liposculpture right for me?
That’s something that needs to be discussed between you and your doctor. 
Take a look around, learn about liposculpture, check out some doctors, and see what’s the best for you.
