Liposuction removes stubborn, localised fat that won’t respond to diet and exercise, sculpting a more balanced shape. Modern techniques such as VASER make results more precise and gentler on the skin. Here’s the complete guide — benefits, procedure, recovery, risks and cost.
What is liposuction?
A cosmetic procedure that selectively removes localised fat from almost any area — abdomen, flanks, back, thighs, arms, chin, and more — using fine cannulas, for a result that lasts for years as long as you maintain your weight.
Benefits
- Precise contouring: defines the body’s proportions and, with high-definition techniques, brings out muscle contours.
- Health benefits: can help with certain fat-related conditions when medically indicated.
- Lasting results: removed fat cells don’t return in that area with a stable weight.
Who is a candidate?
- Localised fat in one or more areas, with reasonably firm skin (no severe sagging).
- A stable weight within the normal range.
- Age 18+, in good general health, a non-smoker (or able to stop as directed).
- A clear cosmetic goal after diet and exercise haven’t worked.
Techniques
- Traditional: fat is broken up manually with a suction cannula.
- Laser: heat liquefies the fat before suction and stimulates collagen.
- VASER (ultrasound): the newest device — gentle ultrasound melts fat while protecting the skin and tightening some sagging.
How it’s done
Under local or general anaesthetic (depending on the areas), the surgeon marks the area, makes tiny incisions under half a centimetre, infuses a tumescent fluid, and passes a fine cannula to remove the fat — with VASER, ultrasound liquefies it first. The incisions are closed with fine stitches and dressed.
Recovery
- Wear the compression garment for the period your doctor specifies — key to healing.
- Take medication on time; eat protein and vitamin C, and limit salt.
- Walk lightly every few hours to prevent clots.
- Sleep on your back to limit swelling.
- Core recovery is about 10 days; full settling takes two to three months.
Risks
As with any surgery: swelling, bruising, temporary numbness, fluid collection or, rarely, infection — all minimised by an experienced surgeon and good aftercare.
Results
Much of the result shows immediately, most appears by two to three months, and the best result — with tightened skin — appears around the sixth month, lasting for years with a stable weight.
Liposuction explained — with Dr. Sherif Hegazy
Curious whether liposuction suits you? Book a consultation with Dr. Sherif Hegazy.
