Liposuction is as versatile as it is effective: This convenient, low-risk procedure can permanently remove unwanted fat from almost anywhere on the body. Liposuction is the best way to contour small areas, too; the thin cannulas used during this procedure can shape even the fingers, toes, ankles, and knees. Most non-surgical fat removal devices are too large to be used similarly.
If you’re considering having diet-resistant fat removed, it’s useful to know the most commonly requested liposuction sites. Having this information will help you work with our surgeons to develop a comprehensive body sculpting plan that meets all your objectives.
The 6 Areas Most Commonly Treated by Liposuction
1. The Abdomen
Unsurprisingly, the upper and lower abdomen are two of the most popular liposuction sites. Liposuction can quickly and permanently eliminate up to ten pounds of belly fat. Keep in mind, however, that this procedure is not meant to serve as a substitute for lifestyle changes. Removing more than ten pounds of fat at a time can cause surgical complications, so it’s not possible to use this procedure as a treatment for central obesity.
Eligible candidates use liposuction to treat age-related fat centralization or inherited fat distribution problems. Mothers also turn to liposuction to get rid of the lower belly “pouch” that often develops after pregnancy.
2. The Breasts
Both men and women can benefit from liposuction’s ability to contour the chest. Men frequently use liposuction to treat gynecomastia (enlarged male breasts). Women may use it to correct breast asymmetry or decrease the size of their breasts slightly (more dramatic reductions in breast size can only be achieved using breast reduction surgery). Some women also use liposuction to get rid of the small pocket of fat that sometimes exists between the breasts and the armpits. Removing this fat can reduce irritation while wearing a bra and make clothes drape in a more flattering way.
3. The Area Under the Chin
Though non-surgical treatments for submental fat exist, they don’t produce results as quickly as liposuction. They can also cause more localized irritation for some patients. Liposuction is therefore still the treatment of choice for most patients who wish to get rid of a double chin.
5. The Thighs
Some women have what’s known as an accentuated “pear-shaped” figure: Their upper body is very lean, while their thighs and buttocks retain stubborn bulges of fat. Liposuction can be used to slim the lower body, giving these women more balanced proportions.
6. The Upper Arms
High estrogen levels tend to increase the amount of fat that’s stored on the arms, as well as increasing breast size. Unfortunately, natural or not, this extra arm fat can make a woman look heavier and less toned than she actually is. Having arm liposuction can improve visible muscle tone and decrease upper body mass at the same time.
To learn more about how liposuction can be used to sculpt a shapelier body, contact PSSF to arrange a consultation. Our surgeons will be happy to answer any questions you have about this procedure.
