What is it

Liposuction is a surgical technique that allows the removal of unwanted, localised fat deposits from specific areas of the body using fine cannulas and specialised equipment. Common treatment areas include the face, neck, trunk, abdomen, arms, buttocks, and legs.

In many cases, liposuction is combined with fat grafting techniques (known as liposculpture) to enhance body contour definition by reinjecting the purified fat into areas that require volume or balance.

---

Who is it for

Ideal candidates for liposuction should meet the following criteria:

• Have localised fat deposits in specific areas;
• Maintain a healthy and stable weight;
• Be in good overall health;
• Have firm skin with good elasticity;
• Have realistic expectations and a commitment to maintaining results.

---

Where it is indicated

Liposuction can be performed on virtually any body area where fat deposits are present and the skin has good elasticity. The most common areas include:

• Abdomen
• Flanks (love handles)
• Back and upper torso
• Outer thighs (“saddlebags”)
• Inner thighs
• Posterior thighs (“banana rolls”)
• Pubic area (“mons pubis”)
• Arms
• Neck (“double chin”)
• Male and female breasts (for cases such as gynaecomastia)

---

Where and when it is not indicated

Liposuction is not suitable in certain situations, even though these are often reasons people seek the procedure:

• Skin laxity on the abdomen, arms, or thighs – in these cases, the problem lies in excess skin, which liposuction cannot correct.
• Cellulite (“orange peel” skin) – this condition involves changes in lymphatic drainage that can actually worsen after surgical manipulation.
• Excess body weight or obesity – liposuction is intended for contouring localised fat deposits, not as a weight-loss method.

---

Scars

Liposuction involves very small incisions — typically just large enough to allow the insertion of 2–5 mm cannulas. These are strategically placed in natural skin folds or areas concealed by clothing to keep scars as discreet as possible.

When combined with lipofilling, the removed fat can be purified and reinjected into areas that need contour enhancement, such as the buttocks or hips, creating a more balanced silhouette.

---

Technical description

The procedure is performed through tiny incisions to introduce the cannulas that suction out the excess fat.

Fat removal may be done manually or with the aid of devices that enhance precision and efficiency, such as vibration-assisted, ultrasound-assisted, or laser-assisted liposuction systems.

---

Type of anaesthesia

Liposuction can be performed under local anaesthesia, sedoanalgesia, or general anaesthesia, depending on the extent of the procedure and the areas being treated.

Even in cases performed under general anaesthesia, a tumescent solution containing anaesthetic and vasoconstrictive agents is injected into the targeted areas. This helps facilitate fat removal, reduces bleeding, and provides pain relief during the recovery phase.

---

Results and benefits

The results of liposuction are visible immediately after surgery due to the reduction of fat and improved contour. Additional, progressive improvement occurs in the following weeks as swelling decreases and lymphatic massages are introduced.

Key benefits include:

• Long-lasting results in areas resistant to diet and exercise;
• Noticeable enhancement of body contour and proportion;
• Increased self-esteem and confidence due to improved body harmony;
• Greater freedom in clothing choices.

---

Recovery

Most patients can return to work within 2 to 5 days.

---

Post-operative care

After a short hospital stay or outpatient procedure (often less than 24 hours), recovery continues at home.

Key recommendations include:

• Follow all prescribed medication and medical instructions carefully;
• Begin lymphatic drainage massages early to reduce swelling and improve healing;
• Avoid strenuous activities during the first days, though normal daily routines and gentle walking are encouraged;
• Perform self-massage and light movements to promote circulation;
• Wear a compression garment for 3 to 4 weeks to help the skin adapt to the new contour and minimise swelling.

Following these guidelines will help ensure a smoother recovery and optimal aesthetic results.