Liposuction has a rather bad reputation, without good reason: for most of my patients, liposuction is about getting rid of unwanted fat deposits that cannot be eliminated easily or at all through diet and exercise. It is also a suitable solution for the male breast problem. I explain the different forms of liposuction in this overview.
Liposuction is a medical skill. As an experienced expert in the field of liposuction, I know that for many patients this surgical procedure is also about regaining a loving view of their own body. The procedure supports both physical well-being and mental self-confidence.
When I can help my patients regain self-love through liposuction, these are very special moments for me every time. I am happy if I can also help you achieve your goals and bring out your beauty. Together we will discuss and fulfill your personal desire for change.
What is liposuction good for?
Liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to remove unwanted fat deposits from certain areas of the body. The purpose of this surgery is to achieve a well-proportioned and slimmer body shape. However, liposuction is not a weight loss method, but rather is used to reduce localized fat deposits that are very difficult or impossible to reduce through diet and exercise.
What happens during liposuction?
The process of liposuction is quickly explained: the procedure is usually performed by a plastic surgeon and begins with a local or sedation, depending on the wishes of my patients and the extent of your procedure.
- Solution injection: Before the actual liposuction procedure, a tumescent solution is injected into the treatment area. This solution usually contains an anesthetic such as lidocaine to reduce pain, as well as a solution that loosens the fat cells and facilitates suction.
- Liposuction: I use a narrow cannula, usually a hollow metal tube, that I insert into the skin through small incisions. By moving the cannula back and forth, the fat cells detach and enable suctioning. This is supported with a device, e.g. MicroAire, for a more precise and effective fat removal.
- Recovery period: swelling, bruising and mild pain sometimes occur after the procedure. I therefore recommend that my patients wear a special compression garment for a certain period of time to reduce swelling and tighten the skin.
The different types of liposuction at a glance
There are different types of liposuction that are used depending on the individual needs and goals of the patient, as well as the body areas that need to be treated. Here are some of the most common methods:
- Tumescent liposuction for small fat deposits
This method is the most common and traditional type of liposuction. It uses a tumescent solution that is injected into the fatty tissue to loosen and numb it before the fat is suctioned out. This technique allows the surgeon to precisely remove the fat while reducing the risk of bleeding and tissue trauma. Tumescent liposuction can be used in most cases and is appropriate for patients who want to remove only minor fat deposits.
- Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL) for firm fat on back and mammary glands
In UAL, ultrasound energy is used to break up the fat cells before suctioning. This facilitates their removal. This method is particularly well suited for areas of firm fat, such as the back or male mammary glands (gynecomastia). UAL also has the advantage of being less disruptive to the surrounding tissue.
- Laser-assisted liposuction (laser lipolysis) for small fat deposits and collagen stimulation
This technique uses laser energy to melt fat cells before they are suctioned out. The laser can also promote skin tightening by stimulating collagen production. Laser lipolysis works well for smaller fat deposits and can be used in combination with other liposuction techniques.
- Power-assisted liposuction (PAL) for large fat deposits on abdomen and legs
PAL uses a mechanical hand device that allows for faster back and forth movement of the cannula. This vibration makes liposuction more efficient in certain areas. PAL is well suited for larger areas with a greater amount of fat, such as thighs or abdomen.
- Vaser liposuction for more contouring and body shape
This technique uses ultrasound-assisted technology to dissolve targeted fat cells while preserving surrounding tissue. Vaser liposuction can provide more precise contouring and is often used in targeted body contouring.
For whom is which method of liposuction suitable?
In my experience, the choice of the most suitable method is very individual: I will be happy to advise you in the decision-making process with my many years of expertise.
Aspects which I consider include your treatment area, the amount of fat to be removed, and my patient’s individual wishes and goals.
Is liposuction risky?
Liposuction is usually a very safe procedure. Of course, as with any surgical procedure, there is some chance for complications. To ensure that these do not occur, it is important for me to thoroughly examine my patients before surgery and provide sound advice regarding their individual risks and with respect to the likely outcome.
No substitute for a healthy lifestyle
Liposuction is in no way a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. A balanced diet and regular exercise are and remain the best way to maintain a healthy and slim body shape in the long term. However, liposuction can be a good option to reduce stubborn fat deposits that persist despite efforts in diet and exercise.
