This website is intended for users aged 18 and over. The information provided pertains to cosmetic surgery and medical procedures.

Understanding Liposuction for Different Body Areas

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes fat from specific areas of the body. It is not a weight-loss treatment and is not suitable for everyone. Each treatment area has specific considerations, including procedure details, risks, and recovery times. Understanding what to expect can help you make an informed decision in consultation with a registered medical practitioner.

Where Can Liposuction Be Performed?

1. Abdomen and Waist

Abdominal liposuction targets fat in the stomach and flank areas. Small incisions are made and fat is removed with a cannula.

Procedure Time Anaesthetic Type Hospital Stay Full Recovery Final Results
1–3 hours Local with sedation Day 6 weeks 6–12 months

2. Arms

Arm liposuction focuses on reducing fat in the upper arms. Incisions are usually placed near the elbow or armpit before fat is removed.

Procedure Time Anaesthetic Type Hospital Stay Full Recovery Final Results
1–3 hours Local Day 4–6 weeks 6 months

3. Thighs

Thigh liposuction can target several regions of the legs. Small incisions allow fat to be removed from specific areas.

Procedure Time Anaesthetic Type Hospital Stay Full Recovery Final Results
1–3 hours Local with sedation Day 2–4 weeks 6–12 months

Areas that can be treated:

  • Inner thighs (groin to knee)

  • Outer thighs (hip to knee)

  • Front thighs (groin to knee)

  • Back of thighs (buttocks to knee)

4. Chin and Neck

Liposuction in the chin and neck region involves small incisions under the chin or behind the ears. Fat is removed to help refine the contour of this area.

Procedure Time Anaesthetic Type Hospital Stay Full Recovery Final Results
1–3 hours Local with sedation Day 4 weeks 6 months

5. Buttocks

Some procedures combine liposuction with fat transfer, such as gluteal fat grafting (commonly called a Brazilian Butt Lift autologous fat transfer). Fat is removed from one area of the body and re-injected into the buttocks.

Procedure Time Anaesthetic Type Hospital Stay Full Recovery Final Results
2–4 hours General Day or overnight 6 weeks 6–12 months

Risks of Liposuction

Like all surgery, liposuction carries risks. Possible complications include:

  • Infection at incision sites

  • Bleeding or haematoma (blood collections under the skin)

  • Reactions to anaesthesia

  • Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism)

  • Swelling, bruising, and pain during recovery

  • Changes in skin appearance, such as dimpling, lumpiness, or pigmentation differences

  • Fluid build-up (seroma), which may need drainage

  • Scarring at incision points

  • Asymmetry or uneven results

Your practitioner will explain those most relevant to your health and procedure plan.

Recovery Considerations

  • Recovery time varies depending on the treatment area and individual healing.

  • Compression garments are often required for several weeks.

  • Bruising and swelling are common and usually subside over time.

  • Final outcomes may take months to become apparent.

  • Follow-up appointments are important to monitor recovery.

Key Points to Remember

  • Liposuction is not a treatment for obesity or a substitute for healthy lifestyle choices.

  • Results vary, and no outcome can be guaranteed.

  • A consultation with a registered health practitioner is required to determine suitability.

Disclaimer

This information is general in nature and does not replace medical advice. A consultation with a registered health practitioner is essential to discuss whether liposuction is appropriate for you. All surgical procedures carry risks, and recovery and outcomes differ between individuals.

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Why Levant Cosmetic Surgery?

CHOICE OF PRACTITIONER
Consultations and procedures are carried out by registered medical practitioners, including FRACS-qualified plastic surgeons. At your consultation, a practitioner will discuss available options.
CONSULTATION PROCESS
Each consultation includes a discussion of your medical history and treatment objectives. Potential risks, side effects, and limitations are also explained to support informed decision-making.
FEES AND COSTS
During your consultation, you will receive clear information about fees. A detailed breakdown of costs is provided before you decide whether to proceed.
FOLLOW-UP CARE
Follow-up appointments are part of the clinical process after surgery. Your practitioner and nursing staff will monitor your recovery and provide aftercare information.
ACCESS TO PRACTITIONERS
Patients receive contact details for their treating practitioner after a procedure. For urgent medical issues or emergencies, always call 000.
OUR APPROACH
We provide cosmetic surgical services in accredited facilities. Information about risks, recovery, and alternatives is shared to help patients make informed choices.