Liposuction is one of the most versatile and highly sought-after cosmetic procedures. But although it can be useful and beneficial for many different people, it isn’t for everyone.
So, how do you know if liposuction is right for you?
Let’s start by understanding what liposuction is. It’s a fat removal procedure that targets specific areas or ‘fat deposits’ beneath the skin. It is also a surgical procedure, which means it involves incisions, risks, and recovery, although the incisions are small.
Due to the surgical nature of the liposuction procedure, patients need to have an in-depth discussion with a plastic surgeon to determine whether they are candidates. You may discuss your needs with our friendly and well-equipped team at Rodin Clinic in Perth.
Who liposuction is for
If you’re thinking about getting liposuction, you may have concerns about localised areas of fat. You may have lost weight, dieted, or maintained a good exercise routine, but still these areas of fat remain.
You may also be concerned about areas of fat that are asymmetric or uneven. Or, another possibility: you are undergoing a surgical procedure (such as abdominoplasty or breast reduction mammoplasty), and liposuction may help achieve the results you desire.
Whatever the motivation is for seeking liposuction, candidates should be physically healthy. This means they should be non-smokers who are maintaining a healthy and stable BMI. Additionally, they should also be mentally ready to undergo such a procedure, having realistic ideas about the risks and possible results.
Does liposuction help weight loss?
In short, no.
Liposuction is a targeted fat-reduction method. This doesn’t mean it will help weight loss; it means that it targets specific areas of fat that are resistant to healthy lifestyle habits.
Some people find that despite being fit and healthy, certain areas of unwanted fat remain. This is commonly in areas such as the thighs, hips, abdomen, or arms. Despite keeping healthy and eating a balanced, nutritious diet, these areas of fat may still remain. In these cases, liposuction could be a desirable option.
In other words, liposuction cannot replace the value of a healthy diet and exercise routine. Instead, it only targets specific areas where fat tissue is hard to reduce naturally. Also, some people may benefit more from a different procedure (or a combination of procedures), which we will discuss below.
Am I suitable for a different procedure?
One way to know whether liposuction is right for you is to research other procedures that target the areas or issues you are concerned about. This way, you can be clear on what can be achieved.
In particular, if you have excess skin in addition to excess fat deposits, then you may not be suitable for liposuction alone. This is because liposuction is typically more effective in areas where the skin is firm and tight. Once the fat tissue is removed, the skin is then able to adjust to the new form of the body. However, if liposuction is performed in an area where the skin is loose, this could lead to a dissatisfying result.
Therefore, if you have loose skin, you may be more suited to other procedures instead, for example:
On the other hand, some patients may be suitable for a combination of procedures. For example, if you are getting loose skin removed in an abdominoplasty surgery, your surgeon might recommend combining this with liposuction. This combination of techniques can help the surgeon to adjust the procedure to your needs and goals. All this depends on your individual concerns and personalised treatment plan.
Non-invasive options
Alternatively, there are other options for fat reduction that are considered “non-invasive.” This means that no surgery or incisions are involved, often leading to a shorter recovery time but less dramatic results. For example, treatments such as CoolSculpting use a cryolipolysis technique to freeze and eliminate fat cells.
Determine what may work for you by consulting with a trained and experienced professional at Rodin Clinic.
Pre-surgery consultation
During a consultation at Rodin Clinic in Perth, your plastic surgeon will assess your particular circumstances to see if liposuction would be suitable for your needs. We will examine the following topics:
- Your health and personal risk factors
- Your expected outcomes and goals
- The amount of fat tissue you wish to remove
- Your skin quality and elasticity in the desired treatment area
- Whether you desire to combine liposuction with another procedure (such as fat grafting)
- Your understanding of the recovery, costs, and risks
You’ll need to discuss all of these factors with a qualified and patient-focused plastic surgeon. At Rodin Clinic, we will help you make well-informed choices about your procedure and answer any questions you might have about liposuction – whether about your suitability, possible results, costs, risks, and aftercare. Book your appointment with us for more information.
Recovery and aftercare
Recovery after liposuction is typically less extensive than procedures that involve longer incisions. However, the recovery period is nevertheless an important process that can greatly affect your healing and results.
After a liposuction procedure, you will probably need to wear a compression garment. This helps your healing tissue to stay in place and aids in the reduction of swelling. In addition, you will be advised about how to care for the small incisions and for how long you should abstain from strenuous activity. This can vary depending on how complex and extensive your surgery was.
Your surgeon may instruct you to remain physically healthy by staying hydrated and eating healthy foods. You should also aim to get up and move with light activities (such as walking) as soon as you are able. However, make sure that you listen to your body and don’t overexert yourself.
Being prepared to follow these instructions, take time off work, and ensure you have enough support, is a big consideration when deciding if liposuction is right for you.
Risks and complications
Important factors to consider when making your decision are the risks and possible complications. Before you decide if liposuction is right for you, make sure you are aware of what to expect and what could potentially go wrong.
While choosing a well-trained surgeon at Rodin Clinic can minimise risks, you can never eliminate risks entirely. Possible complications can include bleeding, seroma, anaesthesia complications, infections, scarring, and poor or unwanted results. Ensure that you discuss these, and any other risk factors with your surgeon when deciding if you want liposuction.
Choose Rodin Clinic Perth for liposuction in Perth
All of these considerations are important before you get liposuction surgery. Consider what you hope to achieve, your suitability, and whether you are aware of the risks and recovery involved. A great way to learn more about these factors is to book a consultation with a reputable practitioner, such as the team of surgeons who operate at Rodin Clinic in Perth.
Ultimately, getting liposuction is a personal decision that only you can make after discussing your needs with a plastic surgeon. It’s up to you and your surgeon to decide on a path of treatment that satisfies your needs and cosmetic desires, developing a plan that’s tailor-made for you. Get in touch with our team to learn more about liposuction and whether it could be right for you.