The 7 Key Considerations for Choosing a Liposuction Procedure

Getting liposuction surgery isn’t something you decide on a whim. There are several important factors to weigh before booking in surgery. Are you a suitable candidate for the procedure? Which type of liposuction doctor should you go with? Are your expectations realistic? What kind of technology is best? In this article, we’ll walk you through the top seven key considerations for choosing a liposuction procedure.

7 Liposuction Considerations

• Liposuction Overseas vs in Australia: Should you travel overseas for liposuction or have the procedure in Australia?
• Costs of Liposuction: Liposuction costs can add up, so it’s crucial to understand the financial side of things.
• Choosing the Right Liposuction Doctor: The doctor you choose can make a huge difference in your results.
• Liposuction Candidates: Not everyone is a candidate for liposuction. We’ll discuss the criteria that make someone a suitable fit for the procedure.
• Number of Areas for Liposuction: Maybe you have one area you want liposuction on, or perhaps there are several areas.
• Realistic Liposuction Goals: It’s important to have realistic expectations about what liposuction can achieve.
• Liposuction Technology: With different technologies available, like Vaser and PAL, choosing the right one can be confusing. We’ll explain the options to help you decide.

1. Liposuction Overseas vs in Australia

When deciding where to have your liposuction procedure, one of the big questions is whether to do it overseas or stay in Australia.

Costs

One of the main reasons people consider having liposuction overseas is the potential cost savings. In some countries, the procedure can be significantly cheaper than in Australia.

However, it’s important to remember that lower costs may mean compromises on quality, safety, and post-op care.

At the end of the day, liposuction is a surgical procedure, so you want to make sure you’re in the best hands possible. Often, that may mean paying a bit more for the highest quality of experience and care.

Doctor Qualifications

The qualifications and experience of your doctor are essential considerations. In Australia, doctors have to meet strict standards, which helps make sure you’re in safe hands.

If you’re thinking about going overseas, do your homework. Research the doctor’s credentials, their training, and how much experience they have.

Look for reviews from people who’ve been treated by them to get a sense of how good they are.

Read more: Comparing Plastic Surgeons, FRACS Surgeons & Liposuction Doctors

Local Home Care

Staying in Australia for your surgery means you can recover at home, which can make a big difference to the overall safety and outcome of your procedure.

You’ll be able to see your doctor for follow-up visits easily, and if anything goes wrong, you can get it sorted in a timely manner.

Plus, being close to family and friends who can support you during your recovery is also recommended.

Travel and Logistics

Travelling abroad for surgery adds another layer of complexity. Long flights, navigating a foreign healthcare system, and potential language barriers can all add to the stress.

Plus, travelling back home after surgery when you’re trying to recover can be uncomfortable and challenging, and potentially risky in some cases.

Weighing Your Options

Ultimately, the decision comes down to what you’re most comfortable with and what you prioritise. Make sure to weigh all these factors carefully and choose the option that best fits your needs and circumstances.

Remember, your health and safety should always come first. Take your time to make a well-informed decision that you feel good about.

2. Costs of Liposuction

Base Costs

Liposuction costs generally include the surgeon’s fee, the anaesthetist’s fee, and the hospital or clinic fees. In Australia, you can expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the areas you want treated and the complexity of the liposuction procedure. Liposuction costs can vary quite drastically, so it’s a good idea to get a detailed quote from your surgeon.

Additional Costs

Beyond the basic fees, there are other expenses you might need to consider:

• Pre-operative Tests: These could include blood tests or other health assessments before the surgery.
• Post-operative Care: This covers follow-up appointments, medications, compression garments, and possibly touch-up procedures.
• Time Off Work: Factor in any lost income from taking time off to recover.

Financing Options

Liposuction is usually considered an elective procedure, which means it’s typically not covered by insurance. However, some clinics may offer financing options or payment plans to help spread out the cost. It’s worth looking into these if paying upfront is a concern.

Comparing Quotes

When you’re comparing quotes from different surgeons, don’t just focus on the bottom line. Make sure you understand what’s included in the price and what might be extra. A lower price might not be such a bargain if it doesn’t cover essential services or follow-up care.

Value Over Price

While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that you often get what you pay for. A highly experienced surgeon with a good reputation might cost more, but the quality and safety of your procedure are worth it.

Hidden Costs

Watch out for any hidden costs. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of all expenses so there are no surprises later. Some clinics might offer a seemingly low initial price but add fees for anaesthesia, aftercare, or hospital use.

3. Liposuction Doctor Choices

There are different levels of liposuction doctors. At Levant Cosmetic Clinic, for example, we have three choices: FRACS surgeon, plastic surgeon and liposuction doctor. Here’s how they differ:

FRACS-Qualified Surgeon

A FRACS (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons) surgeon has gone through over a decade of rigorous training, including at least five years of specialised surgical training.

Why Choose a FRACS Surgeon for Liposuction

When you choose a FRACS-qualified surgeon, you’re choosing someone who’s highly skilled and recognised for their expertise. They’re experienced in handling complex cases and bring a thorough understanding of the human body and surgical practices. Their extensive training means they may better anticipate and manage any issues that may arise during surgery.

Plastic Surgeon

Plastic surgeons in Australia have completed medical school and then dedicated several years to specialised training in plastic surgery. This includes residency and sometimes further fellowship training in specific areas of plastic surgery. They can perform a range of surgeries, from reconstructive to cosmetic procedures.

Why Choose a Plastic Surgeon for Liposuction?

Plastic surgeons are a good choice if you’re looking for someone with a blend of technical skills and an eye for detail.

Liposuction Doctor

A liposuction doctor is a general practitioner who has focused their practice on liposuction. They have honed their skills specifically in this area, keeping up with the latest techniques and technologies to offer precise and effective results.

Why Choose a Liposuction Doctor?

If your primary goal is liposuction and you don’t need other cosmetic surgeries, a liposuction doctor can be a good option. They specialise in liposuction fat removal, tailoring their approach to your specific needs.

4. Liposuction Candidates

Before & after stomach liposuction on a Caucasian patient. Source: Levant Cosmetic Surgery

Read more: 7 signs you’re qualified for liposuction surgery

Healthy 

First off, you need to be in good health. Ideal candidates should be generally healthy and free from serious medical conditions that could complicate surgery or recovery. If you have issues like heart disease, diabetes, or a weakened immune system, liposuction might not be right for you.

Realistic Expectations

Having realistic expectations about the outcome of liposuction is crucial. Liposuction is designed to remove pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise, but it’s not a quick fix for weight loss.

Stable Weight

You should be close to your ideal weight and have maintained it for a while before considering liposuction. Significant weight changes after the procedure can affect your results, so consistency is important.

Target Areas

Liposuction works best for those who have specific areas of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise (for example the stomach, thighs, hips, arms, and chin).

Skin Elasticity

Good skin elasticity is ideal because after the fat is removed, your skin needs to essentially “bounce back” smoothly. If your skin is firm and elastic, you’re more likely to see better results. If your skin has less elasticity, you might need additional procedures.

Non-Smokers

Non-smokers make better candidates because smoking can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications. If you smoke, your doctor will probably advise you to quit several weeks before and after the procedure to help make sure the procedure and healing go smoothly.

Mental Readiness

Lastly, being mentally prepared is essential. You need to have a positive outlook and clear, realistic goals for what you want to achieve with liposuction. It’s also important to be ready to follow your doctor’s post-op care instructions and maintain a healthy lifestyle to make sure your results last long-term.

5. How Many Areas Can You Get Liposuction?

When you’re considering liposuction, a common question is “How many areas can be treated at once?” The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all and depends on several factors like your health, how much fat is being removed, and what your surgeon recommends.

Safety First

Safety is the top priority. Surgeons usually limit the amount of fat they remove in a single session to keep the procedure safe and recovery smooth. In Australia, taking out up to 5 litres of fat is considered a safe amount. If you need more than that, your surgeon might suggest splitting it into multiple sessions.

Potential Combinations

Some patients choose to treat multiple areas in one session. Some areas people treate together include:

• Abdomen and Hips
• Thighs and Knees
• Arms and Back
• Chin and Neck

Your Unique Situation

The number of areas you can treat in one go also depends on you. Your overall health, how elastic your skin is, and the amount of fat in each area all play a role. Your surgeon will look at these factors to create a plan that’s safe and effective for you.

Recovery Time

Treating multiple areas can lead to a more noticeable change, but it might also mean a longer recovery. You could experience more bruising and swelling, so it’s important to have enough time and support to rest and heal.

Surgeon’s Expertise

The skill and experience of your surgeon are crucial if you’re targeting more than one area. Make sure to choose someone qualified and experienced if you’re considering multi-area liposuction.

6. Are Your Liposuction Goals Reasonable?

When considering liposuction, it’s important to have goals that are realistic and achievable. Liposuction is a surgery to remove fat that doesn’t go away with diet and exercise. However, it’s not a weight-loss solution.

Reasonable Liposuction Goals

• Targeting specific areas of stubborn fat rather than aiming for significant weight reduction.
• Understanding that the procedure can address fat deposits but will not completely change your body.
• Seeking improved comfort in how clothing fits.
• Being prepared to maintain the results with a healthy diet and consistent exercise.
• Making the decision for yourself, not to meet external pressures or expectations.

Abdominal Vaser liposuction before & after. Source | Levant Cosmetic Surgery

7. What is the Best Liposuction Technology?

Choosing the type of liposuction technology can be overwhelming with all the options available. Here are some types to consider:

Traditional Liposuction

This method involves the surgeon manually removing fat using a thin tube called a cannula. It’s designed to be effective for large areas and has been trusted for many years. If you have a larger amount of fat to remove, this might be a good choice.

Vaser Liposuction

Vaser liposuction uses ultrasound waves to break up fat before it’s removed. This technique is ideal for targeting smaller areas and can also help with skin tightening.

Laser Liposuction

This method uses laser energy to liquefy fat. It may also promote skin tightening.

Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL)

PAL uses a vibrating cannula to break up fat. It may be less physically demanding for the surgeon, which might mean shorter surgery times.

Why LCS Chooses Vaser Liposuction

At Levant, we use Vaser liposuction because it combines precision with effectiveness. Vaser’s ultrasound technology allows us to target fat more accurately. It’s also helpful for skin tightening, which can strenghten the overall results.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to recover from liposuction?

Recovery time can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and the areas treated. Generally, you can expect to take about one to two weeks off from work to rest and heal. Most people can return to normal activities within four to six weeks.

2. Will liposuction leave scars?

Liposuction typically involves small incisions, so any scarring is usually minimal and may fade over time. Your surgeon will make incisions in less noticeable areas whenever possible. Proper aftercare, including following your surgeon’s instructions, can help minimise scarring.

3. How much fat can be removed in one liposuction session?

Surgeons usually limit fat removal to around 5 litres (about 11 pounds) per session to ensure safety. Removing too much fat at once can increase the risk of complications. If more fat needs to be removed, it may be done in multiple sessions.

4. Can men get liposuction?

Liposuction is for both men and women.

5. How soon will I see results after liposuction?

You’ll see some results almost immediately, but there will be swelling and bruising that takes time to subside. Most people see significant improvement within three to six months.

6. What are the risks of liposuction?

Like any surgical procedure, liposuction has potential risks, including infection, bleeding, and adverse reactions to anaesthesia. Specific risks related to liposuction include irregularities, fluid accumulation, and changes in skin sensation. Discussing these risks with your surgeon can help you make an informed decision.