A botched Hi-Def Liposuction can impact the patient's well-being & mental health. Here are the common complications to look out for & what to do about it.
December 20, 2024
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Liposuction has come a long way since it was first performed in 1926. Over the years, its technique has been constantly improved to make it safer and less invasive. As it approaches its century milestone, liposuction's possibilities continue to excite. For one thing, it has become more than just a fat removal procedure - it's also a body contouring tool.
What is Body Contouring?
Body contouring, also known as body sculpting, and as the name suggests, helps to sculpt the physique. It helps to address and remove fat from stubborn areas while, at the same time, sculpting them to leave a more natural-looking and much-desired appearance.
What are the different types of fat reduction treatments?
Besides Liposuction, there are also several non-invasive fat reduction treatments available such as:
• Non-invasive Cryolipolysis (Fat freezing) - Fat cells are eliminated from freezing temperatures.
• Non-invasive low-energy laser lipolysis - Laser energy is delivered through an applicator to reduce fat volume.
• Non-invasive radiofrequency - Fat cells are targeted with heat via radiofrequency waves.
There is another option, which is banned in Singapore and should be noted. It's called injection lipolysis, where deoxycholic acid is injected into targeted areas to dissolve fat.
Interestingly, the examples mentioned are of non-invasive forms, and this means that these treatments only reduce fat but do not contour the physique. Liposuction, also known as lipoplasty, is a surgical procedure. The liposuction doctor will need to remove the fat via suction and contour the body.
Liposuction explained
During liposuction, stubborn subcutaneous fat (generally fat that is "pinchable" lying directly under the skin) is removed via suction. A small incision is made on the targeted areas, so anaesthetic fluid can be infiltrated, followed by fat removal. Visceral fat, which are fats that wrap around the organ, are not dealt with during the procedure. Getting rid of visceral fat will take a different approach, which involves making lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise.
Areas where stubborn fat exists, commonly those that do not respond to diet and exercise, are ones where liposuction is effective. These areas include under the chin, the arms, armpits, chest (male chest), waist, abdomen, back, inner/outer thighs, hips and calves.
Common Myths About Body Sculpting with Liposuction
Body sculpting equals weight loss
Arguably the most common misconception is that liposuction and body contouring equates to weight loss. Dr Ivan Puah, Medical Director of Amaris B. Clinic, stresses that weight loss can only be achieved successfully and safely via a healthy diet and an equally healthy lifestyle. Dr Puah speaks from his 17 years (and counting) of liposuction and body contouring experience, where he has helped many patients achieve a balanced and proportionate-looking body.
Dr Puah constantly reminds his patients that different approaches and methodologies are required for weight loss and fat loss and that liposuction is not a tool for weight loss. The fact is, the amount of fat removed hardly affects the weighing scale much. Additionally, not everyone is suitable for liposuction, so the patient selection is critical for the individual's safety and efficacy of results.
Liposuction results last forever
Maintenance is critical in upkeeping results for most things, and liposuction is no exception. Although fat that has been removed will not reappear, nonetheless weight and fat gain will result in an unbalanced appearance as other areas of the body have to take on the task of storing the newly-acquired fat. So, a patient who has successfully undergone liposuction is highly encouraged to adopt a healthy lifestyle and exercise to maintain results.
There is only one form of Liposuction
New liposuction techniques have made the procedure more appealing to people over time due to its increased safety and predictable results. There are many such techniques, so the stigma of generalising liposuction as being of only one type or form must be set straight.
One modern liposuction approach is the MDC-Sculpt®️ Lipo technique developed by Dr Ivan Puah. This versatile technique is a multi-dimensional approach towards fat removal and body sculpting that leaves a more natural-looking result with a significant reduction in side effects commonly associated with traditional liposuction.
Skin will loosen after liposuction
Traditional liposuction involves tugging and pulling, and although it will not worsen the pre-existing skin laxity of the patient, it will not be able to improve it either. After years of experience performing various liposuction techniques, the patient's skin laxity can now be addressed with a change of surgical approach.
The MDC-Sculpt®️ Lipo technique removes fat, stimulates collagen production, and encourages skin retraction. The degree of skin tightening with this technique will however, depend on the individual's age and the skin's quality.
Liposuction causes cellulite
Cellulite is a common bugbear for many. Liposuction, when performed by a skilful doctor, can improve the condition. To effectively address this issue, the doctor has to be meticulous in his approach so as not to cause skin dimpling.
Hence an individual must engage a doctor experienced with proven results in liposuction to capably address the issue. Such a doctor will know how much fat to remove and the amount left to leave a smooth and natural-looking result.
Nothing can be done for botched liposuction
Liposuction, when done right, can drastically improve one's body contour. However, In the hands of an inexperienced liposuction doctor, Liposuction may go awry and can lead to an unnatural or asymmetrical body shape, skin rippling, lumpiness or indentations.
Botched liposuction jobs cause physical and emotional trauma for the affected individual and are, unfortunately, relatively common. It is still salvageable, depending on how bad the botched job is. Corrective Liposuction may involve correcting thick scars, removing excess fat left behind, or "filling" and "patching" indentations with fat grafting. Seeking corrective treatment with the right doctor is critical, as correcting a poorly done liposuction case is highly challenging and complex.
Body sculpting with liposuction requires long recovery periods
The liposuction technique has evolved so much over the years that the procedure is mainly performed as a day procedure. Downtime, as with other surgical procedures, is expected but with minimal disruption to your daily activities.
For speedier post-liposuction recovery, it is important to adhere to the doctor's advice, including wearing a liposuction compression garment 24/7 for 6 to 8 weeks. Compressing the treated area well will reduce tissue swelling and enhance skin retraction.
Results of body sculpting with liposuction are short-lived
A patient has to play a part in the longevity of a liposuction result. The fat is permanently removed, but it's important to note that a person can gain and accumulate new fat, which may be deposited in other areas causing an imbalance in appearance.
Adopting a healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise and a healthy diet, can help prolong results and keep excess fat away.
Liposuction is not for "older" people
There are conditions for an individual to be deemed suitable for Liposuction so as not to put them at risk. An experienced doctor will be in a better position to advise in regard.
Generally, a person in good health with no prevailing or current health issues is suitable. Skin quality, as in its firmness and elasticity, is also a factor that will be considered. As we age, skin elasticity is affected. Although being older doesn't necessarily reflect a person's skin quality, the matter is best observed and decided by the doctor who is to perform the procedure.
Why should you opt for Modern Liposuction with MDC-Sculpt®️ Lipo technique?
The MDC-Sculpt®️ Lipo technique developed by Dr Ivan Puah is an example of a modern liposuction technique that has elevated the procedure to new heights.
Like a sculptor, the technique enables Dr Puah to remove a substantial volume of fat and sculpt the physique while keeping scars as inconspicuous as possible. The MDC-Sculpt®️ Lipo technique can also do what traditional Liposuction cannot, which is to encourage skin retraction. In a nutshell, it's a multi-dimensional approach to fat removal and body sculpting that caters to an individual's situation and needs, leaving a more natural-looking result.
Are you considering Modern Liposuction with the MDC-Sculpt®️ Lipo technique?
At Amaris B.Clinic, Dr Ivan Puah and his team understand the journey and what it takes to realise one's body aspirations. This comes from the experience of having been alongside patients on their journey with each step. Among other assurances, Amaris B. Clinic also provides a bespoke post-op recovery program that caters to the individual's needs. This is because everybody is unique, and proper recovery is integral in realising the best results and, more critically, for a patient's well-being.
