Liposuction on flanks; How reasonable is it to do under local anesthesia?

Liposuction of the flanks (also known as love handles) under local anesthesia is a common procedure and can be quite reasonable for many patients. However, the suitability of local anesthesia for liposuction depends on various factors, including the extent of the procedure, the patient's pain tolerance, and the surgeon's expertise.

Here are some considerations:

Extent of Liposuction: Local anesthesia is often suitable for smaller to moderate areas of liposuction, such as the flanks. However, if the procedure is extensive or involves multiple areas of the body, general anesthesia or sedation may be more appropriate.
Patient Comfort: Local anesthesia numbs the targeted area, but patients may still feel some pressure or discomfort during the procedure. Patients with a higher pain tolerance may find local anesthesia sufficient, while others may prefer sedation or general anesthesia for a more comfortable experience.
Safety and Monitoring: Under local anesthesia, patients remain awake during the procedure, allowing them to communicate with the surgeon and move as needed. However, safety measures must be in place to monitor the patient's vital signs and ensure their well-being throughout the surgery.
Surgeon's Expertise: The surgeon's skill and experience play a significant role in the success and safety of liposuction under local anesthesia. A board-certified plastic surgeon with expertise in liposuction can assess the patient's suitability for the procedure and ensure that it is performed safely and effectively.
Patient Preferences: Some patients may prefer local anesthesia because it avoids the risks associated with general anesthesia and typically involves less downtime. However, it's essential for patients to discuss their preferences and concerns with their surgeon to make an informed decision.
Overall, liposuction of the flanks under local anesthesia can be a reasonable option for many patients, but it's essential to consider individual factors and consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine the most appropriate approach for your specific needs and preferences.

Hi LIPOQS312,

Thank you for reaching out with your query regarding the use of local anesthesia for flank liposuction.

Both local and general anesthesia have their places in the realm of liposuction. Some plastic surgeons feel comfortable and achieve excellent results using local anesthesia, especially for smaller procedures. On the other hand, other surgeons opt for general anesthesia, particularly for more extensive liposuctions.

Choosing the type of anesthesia often depends on several factors:

Extent of the Procedure: If you're considering a minor liposuction, where less than 1 L of fat is expected to be removed, local anesthesia might be sufficient. However, it's essential to understand that you may experience some discomfort during the process.

Amount of Fat Removal: Local anesthesia typically has limitations when it comes to pain management, especially if removing larger quantities of fat. In situations where over 2 L of fat is anticipated to be extracted, I usually recommend considering general anesthesia. Under general anesthesia, you'll be unconscious and won't feel any pain, allowing for more substantial fat removal without causing discomfort.

From your description, it sounds like your procedure might be on the smaller side. If your plastic surgeon feels confident performing the liposuction under local anesthesia and you're comfortable with this approach, it could be a suitable choice.

However, always ensure that you are well-informed and comfortable with the planned approach. Open dialogue with your surgeon is crucial to achieving the results you desire while ensuring your safety and comfort.

Thank you for your question, and I wish you the very best with your upcoming procedure.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Hi lipoqs312, You could do either. From my perspective it depends on the comfort level of the surgeon and patient. I’ve done it both ways and they each have advantages/disadvantages. Local is safer but takes longer and can be uncomfortable. General anesthesia means no pain during the procedure and typically a faster procedure but theoretically involves more risk from an anesthesia standpoint. Cost is sometimes a wash because with local anesthesia the OR time is longer and OR time is very expensive. With general anesthesia OR time is shorter but now you have the added anesthesia cost. Again talk with your surgeon and go with your comfort level. Good luck!