What is the "Safest" Area of the Body to Perform Liposuction?

Question

I recently got a quote from my PS for lipo to flanks, inner/outer thighs. However after discussing with a friend who had the same procedure done, she said avoid the thighs because they tend not to come out smooth. I've heard the same thing about the stomach. Would I have better chances of smooth results in just doing the flanks and hips alone? Are there any techiniques in lipo that can minimize a lumpy outcome? I'd rather have my fat pockets than a smaller lumpy body :-(

Shahram Salemy, MD, FACS · Answer

The general idea behind liposuction is that we are removing excess fat in specific areas of the body that have been resistant to diet and exercise, and then relying on the skin in that area to tighten over time.  So if a patient is younger, not overweight and has excellent skin quality, they tend to do better and get smoother results.  It's also true that different parts of the body have better, thicker skin that responds better to liposuction-- for example, the skin of the hips or low back is quite thick and elastic, while the skin of the inner thigh is usually thinner.  So while you can get a great result in any area, it really depends on the skill and judgement of the surgeon more so than the technology of the lipo equipment-- he needs to decide if you are a good candidate overall, if the specific areas of concern on your body will react well to the procedure, and then be very honest with you about your options and the kind of results you should expect.  Sitting down with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon in your area and going through an evaluation and consultation in detail is key to this process and will give you the best chance at a great result.

David Hansen, MD · Answer

Using small canulas and tumescent local liposuction anesthesia, you can do most areas of the body with good results in the right patient.  There are limits how much can be removed safely at 1 procedure but your doc will advise you about this once they see you.  Sincerely,

	David Hansen,MD

Mitchel Goldman, MD · Answer

Liposuction can be safely performed with smooth results in ANY location. The development of lumpiness is a result of poorly performed liposuction. Best results are obtained using tumescent liposuction with small cannulas performed by an experienced dermatologic or cosmetic surgeon.

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

With liposuction, it really depends on the experience and technique of the plastic surgeon and not necessarily the are of your body or the type of liposuction that you are having.  Without knowing what exact procedures your friend had or seeing before and after pictures of your or her, it really is impossible for us to comment specifically on what you can expect.  

	 

	Good Luck.

David Whiteman, MD · Answer

When performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon, liposuction can safely and effectively be applied to a wide variety of areas all over the body. This can include the abdomen, hips, flanks, neck, thighs, arms, and more. Although, every patient is different, so make sure to consult with your surgeon to confirm which areas of your body can be safely treated with liposuction.

What is the "Safest" Area of the Body to Perform Liposuction?

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Answer: Liposuction Outcomes

Answer: Liposuction Outcomes

Answer: Safe Areas for Liposuction

Answer: Safe Areas for Liposuction

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Everything you need to know about Liposuction

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What is the "Safest" Area of the Body to Perform Liposuction?

Answers (10)

Answer: Liposuction Outcomes

Answer: Liposuction Outcomes

Answer: Safe Areas for Liposuction

Answer: Safe Areas for Liposuction

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.