Liposuction
Liposuction removes excess, diet-resistant fat deposits to refine body contour and improve proportion. It is not a weight-loss procedure but a sculpting technique to enhance shape in targeted areas such as the abdomen, flanks, thighs, arms, or neck.
Who It’s For
Localised fat deposits unresponsive to diet or exercise
Good skin tone and elasticity (to allow smooth retraction after fat removal)
Stable body weight and realistic expectations
Patients seeking contour refinement rather than large-volume fat reduction
Procedure
Performed under general or local anaesthesia depending on extent
Small incisions (3–5 mm) are made near treatment areas
A tumescent solution (saline with anaesthetic and adrenaline) is infused to minimise bleeding and ease fat removal
Fat is suctioned out using fine cannulas attached to a vacuum device
Treated areas are sculpted evenly for balanced contour
Incisions are closed with small sutures or left to drain naturally
Recovery
Day surgery in most cases
Bruising, swelling, and mild soreness for several days to weeks
Compression garment worn continuously for 4–6 weeks to reduce swelling and support skin retraction
Return to work within a few days (for small areas) or 1–2 weeks (for larger areas)
Final contour visible after 2–3 months once swelling subsides
Results and Scarring
Permanent fat-cell reduction in treated areas
Scars are minimal and discreetly positioned
Skin retraction and smoothness depend on individual elasticity
Long-term contour improvement maintained with stable weight
Risks
Bleeding, infection, or contour irregularity
Seroma (fluid accumulation)
Asymmetry or surface dimpling
Numbness or temporary sensory change
Rare complications include fat embolism or deep vein thrombosis
Long-Term Considerations
Removed fat cells do not return, but remaining cells can enlarge with weight gain. Maintaining healthy habits preserves results. Liposuction may be combined with skin-tightening or lifting procedures for optimal contour in patients with skin laxity.