According to a recent American Society of Plastic Surgeons report, over 265,000 Liposuction procedures were performed in 2019. Unlike other plastic surgeries, whose numbers decreased during the pandemic, Liposuction remained in demand, with more than 211,000 procedures performed in 2020. This level of popularity is a testament to how Liposuction has consistently shown that it is one of the safest and most effective methods for removing unwanted fat from the body.
How does Liposuction work?
Liposuction begins with administering anesthesia to the area of the body where fat is being removed via a small incision. Once this area is numb, a device called a cannula enters through the same incision. These incisions are made in inconspicuous areas that are easily hidden once a patient is healed from their procedure.
Next, the cannula is strategically moved back and forth by your plastic surgeon to suction stubborn pockets of fat. The tip of the cannula has various hole patterns, some are more aggressive than others depending on the area of the body and the depth of the fat pocket. Cannuals also have various diameters, the most common sizes are 3mm, 4mm, and 5mm. Again, depending on the amount of fat, depth of the fat and quality of the overlying skin, one might be use over another by your surgeon. Often, multiple types of cannulas are used in one treatment area to target the different layers of fat. Through this process, your plastic surgeon will smooth and reshape the treatment area, resulting in slimmer, more balanced, and attractive contours.
Will Liposuction help me lose weight?
Liposuction is NOT a method for weight loss, even though a patient may see the number on the scale decrease slightly after their recovery is complete. Liposuction focuses on eliminating stubborn pockets and contouring the body. Its versatility can help healthy men and women address problem areas that have proven to be resistant to diet and exercise, and help patients improve their body confidence dramatically!
The 10 most popular treatment areas for Liposuction
#1 – The Upper and/or Lower Abdomen
It is very common for both men and women to carry extra fat below the belly button in the lower abdominal area. As long as this fat is not visceral (around the organs) and lies superficial to muscle, Liposuction can significantly improve the appearance of the lower abdomen. It is common for patients to have a Tummy Tuck performed with Liposuction to remove excess skin while simultaneously eliminating fat. Liposuction, when performed with a Tummy Tuck, often focuses on the area over the lateral abdomen and anterior flanks. This duo significantly smooths and recontours the entire abdomen..
Liposuction alone is often performed on both the upper and lower abdomen to ensure a flat, smooth transition from top to bottom.
#2 – The Waistline
No matter how much dieting or exercising a patient partakes in, they may still struggle with “love handles.” Liposuction is an effective approach to slimming this area and the overall waist circumference as long as skin elasticity is healthy. Many patients have Liposuction performed on their flanks in conjunction with their love handles to enhance the coveted “hourglass” figure further or restore a masculine midsection.
#3 – The Hips
Liposuction to the hips can create a more balanced and proportionate body shape, especially for women. Reshaping this area can reveal curves and contours that a woman may not even realize she had!
#4 – The Thighs
The thighs are notoriously difficult areas to lose weight from. This is often due to genetic “saddle bags” or the natural aging process. Like the upper and lower abdomen, it may be beneficial to treat both the outer and inner thighs with Liposuction simultaneously to achieve heightened balance and contour. If loose, excess skin is present in these areas, and cellulite is extensive, Thigh Lift surgery may also be recommended for an optimal outcome.
#5 – The Upper Arms
Excess fat in the upper arm area is a common issue with aging. Liposuction can remove this stubborn fat and restore the appearance of more contoured and toned arms. If loose, excess skin (“bat wings”) is present, a patient may be a candidate to have an Arm Lift in conjunction with their Liposuction surgery for enhanced results.
#6 – The Chin and/or Neck
Fat deposits commonly collect under the chin or neck area due to weight gain, age, and genetics. This can create the appearance of a double chin and make a patient appear heavier than they are. Patients with fullness in this area and good elasticity to their skin can achieve a more defined profile with Liposuction. If loose, sagging, deflated skin is present, a surgical Facelift (incorporating a Neck Lift) may be more beneficial.
#7 – The Knees
Many patients struggle with stubborn pockets of fat directly above their knees. Liposuction can quickly eliminate this fat and contour the entire knee area to a more attractive shape. It’s important to note that if loose, sagging skin is present, it may look worse after Liposuction, as the volume filling it out will be removed. Your plastic surgeon will help you determine if you are a good candidate for knee Liposuction.
#8 – The Buttocks
A shapelier derriere has been a frequent request of many patients in recent years. Although Liposuction can help enhance the shape of the buttocks by removing pockets of fat, a Butt Lift or Brazilian Butt Lift may be needed if loose skin is present or a patient needs fat added to the buttocks to accentuate its volume and shape.
#9 – The Ankles
Small fat deposits around the ankles, sometimes called “cankles,” can make the entire lower leg area appear less defined and lean. With Liposuction, your plastic surgeon can add more definition and contour to your ankles.
#10 – The Chest
Liposuction may be an effective solution for men suffering from Gynecomastia, or male breasts. Depending on the severity of the condition and the amount of fat present in the breasts, Liposuction may be a viable means to reduce the size of male breasts and restore a flatter, more masculine chest profile.
Even if you do not see your area of concern listed above, don’t worry — the odds are that Liposuction can still be performed in that area! Schedule a complimentary consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon at Edina Plastic Surgery by calling (612) 688-3177, texting (952) 925-1765, or CLICKING HERE.
