What is liposculpture?
Liposculpture is a more sophisticated level of the technique used in liposuction.
The general objective is to sculpt the body by improving its profile.
The fat removed can be used in other parts of the body as a natural filler if required.
Who could benefit from liposculpture?
The body's "shape" sometimes has no relation to lifestyle.
A healthy diet, regular exercise and keeping fit can help maintain weight within normal limits.
Genetics and ageing in some individuals increase fat deposits that are difficult to remove by following a healthy lifestyle alone.
This fat does not go away if you lose weight. Women in particular, can increase fat deposits in specific areas of the body such as:
- hips and thighs
- waist
- upper arms
even though they are slim and lead an active life.
The areas of the body where fat deposits are largely formed are due to genetics and therefore liposculpture is proposed to correct these imperfections.
The fat is sucked out of the problem areas to then sculpt the shape of the body.
Once the liposuction is complete, the results are long-lasting.
The fat removed from these areas rarely reforms.
Preparation for liposculpture
A complete medical history and a thorough clinical examination ensure that there are no health problems that prevent you from undergoing liposculpture. The surgeon will explain what can be done and what to expect, as well as ensuring that your expectations are realistic.
It is also important:
- to have firm skin
- not to smoke: it is necessary to stop smoking several weeks before any surgery as smoking interferes with the healing process.
- to follow a diet of fresh food, vegetables and fruit
- to drink more water and no alcohol
- to do more exercise to tone your muscles
- no acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) as this increases bleeding
What does liposculpture involve?
Liposuction to remodel the shape of the body involves the introduction of thin cannulae into the adipose tissue via very small incisions.
Usually no obvious scars remain as the incisions are made inside the natural folds of the skin.
The cannulae are moved and suction is used to remove fat.
Several techniques can be used.
If the liposculpture is over very large areas, a general anaesthetic may be necessary.
If the treatment includes only a specific area, a local anaesthetic is used.
Recovery from liposculpture
The following side effects may occur after surgery:
- feeling bruised
- pain
- bruising
- swelling
Depending on the treated area, you may need to wear an elastic sleeve for about 6 weeks and knee-high compression stockings to prevent deep vein thrombosis during the first 10 days, or until you are completely back to your regular physical routine.
The check-up is usually after 2 weeks to remove the stitches and to check that everything is fine.
Liposculpture in reconstructive surgery
An experienced surgeon is able to perform cosmetic surgery as well as also plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Liposculpture can be useful in reconstructive surgery thanks to the removal of fat which can be used as a filler where, for example, breast reconstruction after a mastectomy is needed.
The fat obtained with liposuction can be used to achieve a better body shape in patients who need reconstruction of the abdominal wall after they have had surgery for colon cancer or gynecological tumours.
Liposculpture, as with all procedures of this type, requires awareness of the risks, the results and above all realistic expectations.
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