Body
Liposuction
Liposuction removes, by aspiration, localised fat deposits that resist diet and exercise. The indication and the areas treated are assessed in consultation, case by case.
What is it?
Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery procedure that uses a suction technique to remove fat from specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, the hips, the thighs, the arms and the neck. It is not a general weight-loss method, but rather a way to get rid of stubborn fat that does not respond to diet and exercise.
Process
Initial consultation
You will meet your surgeon to discuss your goals and determine whether liposuction is the right choice for you.
Preparation for the procedure
Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on what to do before the procedure. This may include changes to your diet or medication.
Procedure
Liposuction is performed on an outpatient basis, generally under local anesthesia and sedation. The procedure usually lasts between one and three hours.
Recovery
After the procedure, you will wear a compression garment to reduce swelling. The recovery period varies but is generally quite quick.
Why choose our clinic?
Expertise
Our surgeons are experienced in liposuction and the treatment of localised fat deposits.
Personalization
We offer a tailor-made approach for each patient, understanding your goals and adapting the procedure to your specific needs.
Safety
The procedure follows strict safety protocols, from preparation to post-operative follow-up.
Expected results
3 hDuration of the procedure70 %Recovery after 2 weeks100 %Recovery after 6 weeks
Before / after results
Liposuction: definition, treated areas and techniques
Here are the answers to the most common questions about liposuction: what it actually treats, the areas involved and the suction techniques used today.
A body-contouring surgery, not a weight-loss method
Liposuction, or lipoaspiration, is a body-contouring procedure that removes localized fat deposits resistant to diet and exercise. It does not replace a weight-loss journey: its goal is to refine a specific contour, not to lower the number on the scale. The most satisfying results generally involve people close to their stable weight whose skin retains good elasticity.
Frequently treated areas
- Abdomen and waist, often requested to refine the midsection.
- Hips, saddlebags and the outer thighs.
- Inner thighs and knees.
- Arms, back and the bra-line area.
- Chin and jawline in selected cases.
Suction techniques
The fat is suctioned using thin cannulas introduced through small, discreet incisions. Several approaches exist (classic liposuction, assisted techniques), and the choice depends on the area, the volume to be treated and the clinical assessment. Your surgeon selects the method best suited to your anatomy rather than a single technique applied to everyone.
Good candidate, indications and limits
Liposuction is not suitable for every situation. This section helps clarify who can benefit from it and when other solutions are preferable.
A generally favorable profile
- A relatively stable weight, close to your balance point.
- Localized fat deposits persisting despite good lifestyle habits.
- Skin that retains satisfactory elasticity to redrape.
- Good general health and realistic expectations.
When other options are discussed
When excess skin predominates, liposuction alone may not be enough: a skin-removal procedure (such as a body lift) is sometimes more appropriate. In cases of significant excess weight, addressing weight beforehand is generally recommended. Your surgeon assesses these factors case by case during the consultation.
The role of the consultation
The clinical examination assesses skin quality, fat distribution and your medical history. It is also the time to discuss smoking, certain medications and preparation, in order to make the procedure as safe as possible.
Anesthesia, procedure and aftercare
Understanding the procedure and the first few weeks helps you approach the operation more calmly. The benchmarks below are general and may vary from case to case.
Anesthesia and surgical setting
Depending on the extent to be treated, liposuction can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or under general anesthesia. The procedure takes place in a suitable surgical setting; the anesthesia team assesses your risks and confirms feasibility on the day itself.
The main steps
- Assessment and marking of the areas to be treated before the procedure.
- Small, discreet incisions for the introduction of the cannulas.
- Progressive suction of the fat while respecting natural contours.
- Closure of the micro-incisions and placement of a compression garment.
The immediate aftermath
A compression garment is usually worn to limit swelling and support the tissues. Bruising, swelling and a feeling of tension are common during the first few days. Walking is encouraged early on, while intense efforts are resumed gradually according to medical advice.
Results, durability and precautions
The result of liposuction is assessed over time, once the swelling has resolved. Here are realistic benchmarks on durability and precautions.
Timeline of the result
- First few weeks: the silhouette is altered but still masked by swelling.
- After a few months: the swelling decreases and the contour becomes clearer.
- Refined result: often appreciated after several months, as the skin redrapes.
Durability and weight stability
The fat cells that are removed do not re-form, but significant weight gain can enlarge the remaining cells and alter the result. A stable weight and regular activity help preserve the contour achieved.
Precautions and points of vigilance
Like any procedure, liposuction carries risks that are explained during the consultation. Respecting compression, relative rest and post-operative check-ups contributes to a safer recovery. In case of unusual pain or any abnormal sign, you should contact the care team.
Our technologies
Depending on the treated area and the clinical assessment, your surgeon may use technologies that complement liposuction. Each one serves a specific purpose; the choice depends on your anatomy and implies no guarantee of results.
Liposuction can be performed conventionally or combined with devices that help with aspiration or improve skin retraction. Your surgeon decides, on a case-by-case basis, whether using them is relevant.
Available technologies
- Vaser: ultrasound-assisted liposuction. Ultrasound helps break up fat before aspiration, which is generally gentler on tissues and can be useful in fibrous areas.
- Microaire PAL: power-assisted liposuction. The cannula vibrates at high frequency to help with precise aspiration while reducing operator fatigue.
- Renuvion / J-Plasma: helium-plasma applied under the skin for skin tightening. This technology aims to improve skin retraction after fat removal, depending on the case.
These technologies are not suitable for every situation and may or may not be combined. The decision is made with your surgeon during the consultation, after a clinical examination.
Frequently asked questions
Who is a good candidate for liposuction?
An ideal candidate for liposuction is in good health, close to their ideal weight but has stubborn fat deposits. The patient must also have skin that is elastic enough to tighten after the procedure.
Is liposuction a weight-loss method?
No, liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure. On the contrary, it is designed to remove localized fat deposits that could not be reduced through diet and exercise.
What is the recovery time after liposuction?
Healing time after liposuction varies depending on the treated area and the amount of fat removed. However, most patients can generally resume their normal activities 2 weeks after the procedure.
Can liposuction treat cellulite?
Liposuction targets deep fat rather than the surface appearance of the skin: it is not a specific treatment for cellulite, which mainly depends on the structure of the dermis and its fibrous septa. Depending on the case, your surgeon may suggest complementary approaches, but no result on cellulite can be guaranteed.
Are the results of liposuction permanent?
The fat cells that are removed do not grow back, but the remaining cells can enlarge if you gain significant weight. A stable weight and regular physical activity generally help preserve the result over time; your surgeon will clarify realistic expectations based on your situation.
Next step
Have questions?
Discuss your goals with our team during a personalised consultation.
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