Areas of the Body Treatable with Liposuction

Areas of the Body Treatable with Liposuction
Liposuction is not intended to be used strictly for weight loss. Rather, liposuction is most effective and beneficial when used to contour a patient’s overall figure by removing pockets of fat in specific areas that are resistant to diet and exercise. Liposuction can be very useful when performed on localized areas of the abdomen, flanks, hips, thigh area, buttocks, arms, and breasts.

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Liposuction of the Abdomen
Liposuction is very effective for shaping the abdominal area in men and women. The lower abdomen in particular tends to be resistant to diet and exercise, making even the most fit and active individuals insecure about their appearance. Pregnancy and cesarean births can have a disfiguring effect on the lower abdomen, which diet and exercise cannot correct. Most abdominal fat is located directly beneath the skin (subcutaneous), and can easily be removed through liposuction procedures. However, fat that is located deep in the abdomen (between the intestines) cannot be removed with liposuction because of the increased risk of severe complications.

Liposuction of the Flanks
Male flanks are located just above the belt line on the sides and back. Liposuction can greatly improve the appearance of flanks and reduce the amount of fat that bulges over the belt. Liposuction in females addresses the flanks that are located just under the bra line on the sides and back.

Liposuction of the flanks should be done under local anesthetic, so that the patient can roll over and allow the surgeon access to the back of the flanks. It is dangerous to roll a patient who is under general anesthesia because the movement can interfere with the placement of the breathing tube.

Liposuction of the Hips
Liposuction of the hips is generally successful in creating a more contoured figure. This type of liposuction is usually performed on female hips as men are not as susceptible to retaining fat deposits in this area. Patients who undergo liposuction to improve the appearance of the hips may require additional procedures to attain the desired contour. The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia.

Liposuction of the Thighs
Liposuction of the entire thigh (circumferential liposuction) is not recommended due to an increase in swelling and lengthened recovery time. Liposuction of the thighs should be performed in a series of surgeries spaced about one month apart. Focusing the liposuction on one targeted area of the hips allows the lymphatic tissue to drain excess fluids quickly and evenly throughout the thigh, yielding more desirable results in a shorter amount of time.

Liposuction of the Buttocks
It is important to remember when considering liposuction that shaping the buttocks is more important than reducing the size. Excess removal of fatty tissue in the buttocks can result in an asymmetrical, lumpy, or sagging appearance. The buttocks serve the functional purpose of acting as a soft cushion on which to sit, and are also important in the overall aesthetic appearance of the body. Surgeons should approach liposuction of the buttocks with the subtle touch of an artist, and should always use a micro-cannula, not more than three millimeters (1/8 inch) in diameter.

Liposuction of the Arms
Liposuction of the arms has a high rate of patient satisfaction. Liposuction of the arms yields a slimmer appearance that can give the rest of the body a more contoured look.

Liposuction of the Tummy
Liposuction of the tummy is a very common procedure for both men and women. It is especially useful in patients who have already lost excess weight through diet and exercise. Liposuction can, in many cases, be the only successful method of eliminating stubborn fat deposits that remain in the tummy region.

Liposuction of the Breasts
Enlarged breasts in women can cause back pain, neck pain, headaches, and poor self esteem. Liposuction is a more effective and less invasive method of breast reduction than other forms of breast reduction surgery. Using liposuction to remove excess fat has a natural lifting effect on the breast because it results in less volume weighing it down.

Liposuction of Male Breasts
Liposuction can also be used as a form of breast reduction in men, but several important factors must be considered first. The surgeon must determine whether the excess tissue in the breast is fatty or glandular. If the breast is primarily fatty tissue, then liposuction is an excellent method for reducing the size and improving the appearance of the chest.

If a man’s breasts are enlarged with glandular tissue, liposuction is not an option and other hormonal or medication therapies should be pursued. If the breasts are asymmetrical or oddly shaped, the patient should be examined for possible tumors prior to any surgical intervention. A mammogram is the most effective method for detecting tumors and the possible presence of male breast cancer. After proper testing has been conducted, a physician can help you determine the best course of action.