Liposuction

Liposuction, often known simply as ‘lipo’, is a surgical procedure in which stubborn fat deposits are carefully removed. To do so, the doctor inserts fine cannulas at specific points in the patient’s subcutaneous tissue. They then use special techniques to detach the excess fat tissue and remove it with an aspirator.

Liposuction is a suitable method to remove fat deposits from typical problem areas such as the abdomen, waist and thighs. What’s more, men can also undergo liposuction in order to achieve a taut, masculine torso. Further potential application areas include the upper arms, chest, ankles or a troublesome double-chin.

Liposuction can also be used to treat so-called pseudogynaecomastia, a condition in which the male breast area is enlarged by excess fat tissue. Pseudogynaecomastia is often a consequence of being overweight, and is extremely debilitating for those affected.

However, liposuction is not suitable as a method to lose weight. Instead, it serves as a supportive measure, as it removes small, stubborn deposits of fat and contours specific parts of the body in a targeted manner.

A variety of different suction techniques can be used in liposuction procedures. These primarily differ in terms of the method by which the fat tissue is detached. Common methods include, for instance, water-jet-assisted liposuction (in which a fine jet of water is directed at fat cells) and laser-assisted liposuction. The so-called ‘tumescent’ local anaesthesia allows liposuction to be carried out in a safe manner that is kind to body tissue without the need for general anaesthetic.

At Central Aesthetics, we always start by holding an in-depth consultation appointment with the patient. The doctor treating you will meet you to discuss the prospects of the treatment and how you can best achieve your desired results. They will then work together with you to define how to progress.

Liposuction is a relatively localised procedure with few complications for the patient; there is no specific preparation involved. However, before the surgery you should avoid alcohol, nicotine and any anticoagulant medicine if at all possible.

Liposuction is usually performed under local anaesthetic or in conjunction with twilight sedation. If you would prefer a general anaesthetic, or if this is necessary from a medical perspective, you’ll be given further information on this issue in the consultation meeting.

Liposuction takes around 2–3 hours; we usually perform it as an outpatient procedure or with an overnight stay in the case of larger procedures.

At the start of the procedure, the doctor maps out the areas to be treated on the skin. A local anaesthetic is then administered, along with a mild twilight sedative if necessary. The surgeon then begins to separate the fat tissue to be removed using special vibrating cannulas. In the next step, they use an aspirator to remove the excess fat cells. The final stage, if required, is a so-called fat transfer. In this part, the doctor separates a portion of the remaining fat cells and distributes them across the operation area to ensure an even structure without any bumpy pockets of skin. After the fat has been removed, the patient is fitted with a special bandage and compressive garments. These measures help to shape the patient’s final figure and achieve the best possible treatment results. Then, following a short recovery period, the patient is free to leave the practice.

It’s important to protect the treated areas for an initial period after liposuction. To achieve the best possible results, we recommend wearing the compressive clothing provided for around 4 weeks.

The treated areas will also be regularly checked by a doctor during the weeks following the procedure. You’ll be presentable again just a few days after liposuction, and can take up sporting activities again after about 2 weeks. It takes around 4–6 weeks for the treatment results to become visible. You should expect to see the final outcome after around a year.

Following liposuction, patients may temporarily experience bruising and slight pains similar to muscle ache around the wound. However, these symptoms usually subside after a few days. We’d be happy to explain other potential side effects in detail in a consultation appointment.

Liposuction removes stubborn fat deposits, achieving lasting results in doing so. Nevertheless, it is possible that new unwanted deposits may form again at a later point in time. The aspirator removes a specific number of fat cells from the treated area, and these cells do not grow again. However, all fat cells can continue to grow and store more fat. Therefore, in order to achieve the best possible treatment results, it’s important that liposuction is complemented by a balanced, nutritious diet and sufficient exercise.

Nowadays, liposuction is a routine procedure for a plastic-aesthetic surgeon, and is usually performed without any complications. However, slight wound pain, swelling and bruising can sometimes develop for a short time following the procedure.

At Central Aesthetics, we normally perform liposuction under local anaesthetic: doing so reduces the surgical risk by avoiding the risks of thrombosis, fat embolisms and general anaesthetic risks. To exclude the risk of further complications, the doctor treating you will ask about any pre-existing conditions or known intolerances before the procedure.

A fine scar tissue may develop at the puncture sites following liposuction. However, a special ointment can help to minimise such scarring.

The costs of liposuction depend entirely on the scope of treatment. Depending on the part of the body treated, the costs of treatment are usually around €2,600 plus anaesthetic, clinic and accommodation costs.