January 10, 2023
Tarek Elhor
Founder of Brussels Surgical · Anesthesiologist and Aesthetic Physician
There are now many cosmetic surgery procedures available to help slim down, sculpt the figure, or remove fat from specific areas of the body. You may have heard of liposuction, lipoaspiration, and even liposculpture. But what is the difference between these terms? Here is everything you need to know about liposuction and lipoaspiration.
Liposuction and lipoaspiration are cosmetic surgery procedures that remove localized fat deposits from certain areas of the body. These terms are synonyms and refer to the exact same procedure. Liposculpture is also identical.
In general, the term liposuction is more commonly used when referring to the removal of large volumes of fat, for example from the thighs or buttocks. Lipoaspiration or liposculpture are terms more often used when treating smaller areas with less fat, such as the chin or cheeks.
In both cases, the procedure is exactly the same and may be performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the area and amount of fat to be removed. It lasts between one and three hours. Your surgeon will begin by making one or more small incisions, just a few millimeters long, in the skin to insert cannulas. These incisions are made in natural body folds to keep scars discreet.
The cannulas are connected to a negative-pressure device that uses microvibrations to loosen the fat, which is then suctioned out. Once the procedure is complete, your physician will place a few small sutures on the incisions. You will need to wear a compression garment to reduce inflammation and support the skin.
After the procedure, you may experience pain or discomfort. Your surgeon will prescribe medication to ease the pain. You should rest for a few days, especially if a large volume of fat has been removed, as this can lead to fatigue. This will depend on the area treated and the amount removed.
You will not see results immediately after surgery, as the treated areas will be swollen. Your body needs time to recover, deflate, and heal. In general, you will begin to see initial results after three to four weeks, with final results visible between three and six months.
Liposuction (or lipoaspiration) is a useful procedure for removing small amounts of localized fat from specific areas of the body. It is designed to reshape the figure and help patients overcome aesthetic concerns, particularly those who are in good physical condition and have a stable weight.
It must never be considered a weight-loss method or a treatment for obesity. It is also not a solution for reducing cellulite, stretch marks, or scars.
To lose weight in a healthy way, regular exercise and a balanced diet are recommended. You may also consult a physician or nutritionist for guidance and support on your journey toward better health.
If you are unable to lose weight despite following medical advice, there are surgical options such as the insertion of an intragastric balloon. However, this is not a minor procedure and should only be considered as a last resort.
Liposuction is generally recommended for individuals with stubborn localized fat that does not respond to a healthy diet and regular exercise. It can help reshape the body's contours and eliminate fat deposits that cause discomfort, such as love handles or saddle bags.
Some patients also choose liposuction to correct asymmetry between body parts, for example, if one arm or thigh is noticeably larger than the other.
This cosmetic procedure often helps patients feel better in their bodies and regain confidence.
To undergo liposuction, you should be in good general health and have a weight close to your ideal weight. The procedure can be performed from the age of 18 up to around 50 or 60, depending on skin firmness.
Lipoaspiration is usually not recommended if the skin has lost its elasticity, as it may not return to a smooth, natural shape after the procedure.
Ultimately, your surgeon will determine whether the procedure is appropriate for your specific situation. During the initial consultation, you will be able to discuss your expectations, desired results, and personal circumstances. The physician will then advise you on the most suitable areas to treat and the amount of fat to remove.
If you decide to proceed, your surgeon will explain the next steps, including the appointment with the anesthesiologist if needed, and how the procedure will unfold.
Liposuction is most commonly performed on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, hips, arms, and chin. However, it can also be performed on many other parts of the body, such as the knees, male chest, cheeks, love handles, neck, calves, or ankles.
Liposuction and lipoaspiration therefore refer to the same procedure. It should never be used for weight loss, but rather to reshape the figure. To make the procedure worthwhile, you should already be in good physical condition, follow a healthy diet, and exercise regularly.
If that is the case, you can book an appointment at Brussels Surgical & Esthetic Center. Our surgeon will guide you through the process to help eliminate your aesthetic concerns.
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