Liposuction can be very useful when performed on areas such as the abdomen, flanks, hips, thigh area, buttocks, arms, and breasts

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 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. Abdominal liposuction may be performed in conjunction with a tummy tuck.

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. 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 flanks may be performed with a body lift.

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 women, 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 hips may be performed with an extended tummy tuck.

Liposuction of the Thighs

Liposuction of the entire thigh (circumferential liposuction) is not recommended due to an increase in swelling and lengthened recovery time. Rather, liposuction should be performed in a series of surgeries spaced about one month apart. Focusing the procedure on one specific 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 thighs may be performed with thigh lift surgery.

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 are 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. This treatment yields a slimmer appearance that can give the rest of the body a more contoured look. Liposuction of the arms may be performed with arm lift surgery.

Liposuction of the Breasts

If a woman has enlarged breasts, they 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 there is 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, a physician can help a patient determine the best course of action.

Face, Neck, and Chin Liposuction

Facial liposuction removes fatty deposits from specific areas of the face, such as the chin, neck, and jowls. Facial liposuction rids patients of these excess fat deposits, giving them a more youthful appearance. A safe procedure with dramatic results, facial liposuction has helped thousands of people look and feel younger and more attractive.

Facial liposuction is most often performed with a micro-cannula using a tumescent technique. In some cases, liposuction of the chin, neck, and jowls, as well as other facial liposuction procedures, can have better results in these problem areas than other surgical techniques. Liposuction can also be more desirable because it minimizes scarring when compared to other type of facial enhancement. This treatment is usually performed on or below the chin and jaw line to reduce the appearance of sagging skin in the neck, a double-chin, or hanging jowls.