Liposuction

Liposuction is a popular operation in cosmetic surgery which removes fat from many site on the human body, (typically the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, neck, arms and elsewhere) via a cannula and aspirator.

While exercise and dieting may be useful for ridding oneself of unwanted weight and fat, some fat deposits may not respond to an individual's efforts at weight loss. Applying liposuction techniques may be an option in these situations. Liposuction is not a low-effort alternative to exercise and diet. It is a form of body contouring and not a weight loss method. The amount of fat removed varies by doctor, method and patient, however, the average amount is typically less than 10 pounds (5 kg). There are several factors that limit the amount of fat that can be safely removed in one session. Ultimately, the operating physician and the patient make the decision. Reports of people removing 50 pounds (25 kg) of fat are exaggerated, however, the contouring possible with liposuction may cause the appearance of weight loss to be greater than the actual amount of fat removed. The procedure may be performed under general or local ("tumescent") anesthesia. The latter appears to have a better safety record.