Liposuction

What is 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

    • 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

    • 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

    • 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

    • Smoother, smaller, and more symmetrical labia

    • Scars are fine and typically inconspicuous

    • Sensation and function are preserved; aesthetic results continue to refine over several months

    • 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

  • 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.

Dr Katie-Beth Webster offers liposuction consultations in Melbourne, with appointments available in Box Hill and East Melbourne.