What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a surgical procedure used to reduce localized fat deposits that cannot be eliminated through diet and exercise. It is not a weight-loss surgery; rather, it is performed for body contouring and reshaping purposes. It delivers effective results in areas such as the abdomen, waist, hips, thighs, arms, and chin. Small incisions are made in the body, and fat is removed through these incisions with the help of cannulas.

 

Traditional Liposuction

How is it Performed?

In traditional liposuction, fat tissue is mechanically broken down using a vacuum system and removed from the body with cannulas. It is generally preferred for patients undergoing liposuction for the first time.

Advantages

  • A well-established method with proven reliability.
  • Effective for removing large amounts of fat.
  • More affordable compared to other techniques.

Disadvantages

  • Longer recovery period.
  • Bruising, swelling, and edema are usually more noticeable.
  • Because tissue trauma is greater, recovery takes longer.

 

Vaser Liposuction

How Does the Technology Work?

Vaser liposuction uses ultrasound waves to selectively break down fat cells. Once the fat is liquefied, it is removed from the body using low suction pressure. Since surrounding tissues (blood vessels, nerves, connective tissue) are not damaged, it is considered a more modern and controlled method. It is especially preferred for patients who have previously undergone liposuction, in order to release adhesions and achieve more homogeneous results.

Advantages

  • Causes less bruising, swelling, and pain.
  • Shorter recovery period.
  • Provides a skin-tightening effect.
  • Since the extracted fat is purer, it can be reinjected into areas such as the face, buttocks, or breasts for augmentation.

Disadvantages

  • More expensive compared to traditional liposuction.
  • Not available in every clinic and requires an experienced surgeon.

 

How Much Fat Can Be Removed with Liposuction?

The amount of fat that can be removed depends on the patient’s weight, body fat percentage, the number of treated areas, and whether the patient has had liposuction before.
In clinics and outpatient settings, the amount of fat removed should not exceed 4 liters. However, since we perform our procedures under general anesthesia in a fully equipped hospital, the amount can reach up to 10% of the patient’s body weight. For example, in a 60 kg patient, up to 6 liters of fat can be removed.

 

Conclusion

Both traditional and Vaser liposuction provide effective solutions for localized fat accumulation. Traditional liposuction may be a more economical choice for patients with larger fat deposits and those undergoing the procedure for the first time. On the other hand, Vaser liposuction is advantageous for patients seeking faster recovery and less bruising. The choice of method should be based on the patient’s body structure, expectations, and the surgeon’s recommendation.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Liposuction

  1. How long does it take to see the final results after liposuction?
    During liposuction, fluid is injected under the skin to facilitate the procedure. Both this fluid and the surgery itself cause swelling. It may take several months for the swelling to completely subside and for the final results to become visible. For faster recovery, we recommend lymphatic drainage massages and regular use of compression garments after the operation.
  2. Will my fat come back after liposuction?
    If the patient does not maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine and gains weight, fat can return.
  3. Will the fat removed reappear in other areas of my body?
    As long as the patient maintains their weight, fat does not migrate to other areas. However, if weight is gained, fat accumulation may occur both in treated and untreated areas.
  4. Can the fat removed be transferred to other parts of my body?
    Yes. If the patient requests and the surgeon approves, the extracted fat can be reinjected into areas such as the face, buttocks, breasts, or hands for volume enhancement and contouring.
  5. Can the fat removed from me be transferred to another person?
    No. Fat taken from one person cannot be transferred to another, as the body would reject it.
  6. What are the most common complications after liposuction?
    The most common complications are skin irregularities and adhesions. For this reason, liposuction alone is not recommended for patients with loose skin. The surgeon’s experience and the patient’s adherence to post-operative instructions are also important factors in minimizing complications.
  7. I want all the fat in my body removed. Is this possible?
    No. As mentioned earlier, liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure. It only targets subcutaneous fat. The visceral fat around internal organs cannot be removed by liposuction, and it is not possible to remove all subcutaneous fat either. To preserve blood circulation in the skin, a certain layer of fat must always be left in the treated areas.