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 10, 2024
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You’ve probably heard of liposuction. While this popular surgical procedure removes stubborn fat pockets that refuse to budge (like belly fat) despite a well-balanced diet and regular exercises, are you aware of its medical benefits? According to Amaris B Clinic, if you’re considering it, here’s what you need to know. This aesthetic clinic has been offering body sculpting treatments like liposuction in Singapore since 2005!
The popularity of liposuction as a fat removal treatment is undeniable. Around 92,000 liposuction surgeries are performed every year in Brazil, representing 20 percent of all aesthetic plastic surgeries globally. It’s also the most frequent aesthetic surgery performed in the US.
It’s important to understand that liposuction is not a weight-loss solution. Liposuction targets pesky fat in problem areas like the belly, but there’s much more to it than the cosmetic benefits. Clinical studies have shown that liposuction has potential health benefits, especially for obese patients. For example, it can improve insulin sensitivity, speed up metabolic rate, and lower body fat.
As the treatment can permanently reduce fat tissues, it’s also frequently used to treat medical conditions like mixed gynecomastia, which results from a proliferation of men’s breast glands and excess fatty tissues.
4 types of liposuction in Singapore
01. Laserlipolysis (Laser Liposuction)
Performed under local anaesthesia, Laserlipolysis (Laser Liposuction) is a type of laser-assisted liposuction that uses laser emission to break down stubborn fat deposits into liquified fat, which is then removed via a suction tube. It’s suitable for delicate areas such as the armpit, face, and neck. The procedure also offers tissue-firming benefits, which can effectively improve skin tightening.
02. Tumescent Liposuction
Tumescent Liposuction is the most commonly performed form of liposuction as it provides all the benefits of traditional liposuction but with reduced associated surgical risks. Done under local anaesthesia, a special mixture infiltrates the treated area. This mixture helps to prevent pain, reduce blood loss and aid in fat removal. The solution is delivered to the subcutaneous layer of the fat that lies between the skin and muscles. A liposuction cannula then removes the unwanted fat tissues. Recovery is faster; patients can expect less bruising and pain with tumescent liposuction.
03. Vaser Liposuction
Vaser Liposuction is a form of ultrasonic-assisted liposuction technique that utilises ultrasonic soundwave energy to fragment targeted localised fat tissues (like belly fat) without causing any damage to important connective tissues of the body. Melted fat is subsequently removed via suction. Fat removed via Vaser Liposuction can be used for facial, breast or buttock enhancements.
04. 4D Liposuction (Hi-Definition Lipo)
4D Liposuction (Hi-Definition Lipo) is suitable for patients seeking more body definition. The results are highly dependent on the skills and experience of the liposuction doctor. During this procedure, liposuction doctor will remove fat in problem areas while strategically sculpting the body, exposing and highlighting chosen muscle groups. This procedure targets explicitly the abdomen and waists for both men and women.
How Vaser Liposuction works
Vaser Liposuction was introduced to Singapore in 2008 by Dr Ivan Puah (Medical Director at Amaris B. Clinic) and two other doctors. Compared to traditional liposuction, Vaser Liposuction removes unwanted fat permanently. It utilises ultrasonic energy to act on the fat tissues; gently dislodging them through cavitation while leaving vital connective tissues intact. Fat tissues become soft like butter through this process, and this consistency allows Dr Puah to remove the fat with ease. On top of that, Vaser Liposuction stimulates collagen production for additional skin-tightening benefits.
Does Vaser Liposuction hurt?
Vaser Liposuction in Singapore is carried out under local anaesthetic. Post-op, you may feel slight discomfort and notice some bruising and swelling, usually associated with any surgery. Still, these will wear off in no time and will not impede your daily activities. Pain relief medication can help to manage any discomfort.
How soon can I expect results?
You will notice the results immediately after the surgery. However as tissue swelling sets in relatively quickly, it may take 3 to 6 months for you to appreciate the optimal results.
Are the results permanent?
Vaser Liposuction removes fat permanently. A healthy lifestyle with a proper diet and exercise will help to maintain your new look. It is highly recommended that you do your best to keep your weight after treatment.
If any weight gain does occur, it will be proportionally distributed over the entire body. Changes to treated areas are usually more notable, with more than 3 to 4 kg of weight gain. You can also expect changes that are associated with the normal ageing process.
Common myths of Vaser Liposuction in Singapore
Myth: Liposuction is the ultimate weight-loss solution
Many of us may treat liposuction as an immediate fix to shed those piling pounds due to feasting and inactivity. However, liposuction is not intended for weight loss. Liposuction works for those who adhere to a healthy diet and regular exercise but still can’t get rid of pesky fat pockets like belly fat. It’s also suitable for those struggling with fat gain or facing genetically disproportionate body-fat distribution issues.
Myth: Liposuction is only for the ladies
Liposuction is suitable for both genders, even though “problem” areas may differ across men and women! Dr Puah says he has seen an increasing number of men opting for liposuction to help them eradicate persistent, stubborn fat deposits on the abdomen (belly fat), chest, and love handles, thus improving their self and body confidence.
Myth: Liposuction allows a person to lead a sedentary lifestyle
This is one big misconception. The truth is this: not even liposuction can excuse you from the negative consequences of a sedentary lifestyle! Yes, liposuction allows you to start over on a clean slate. Combined with a diligent workout regime and a healthy diet, it can help you maintain your desired body shape. Unfortunately, reckless bingeing and inactivity may undo the positive effects of liposuction.
Myth: Liposuction is a straightforward procedure that any surgeon can conduct
According to Dr Puah, liposuction is an art that’s more than just the act of removing unwanted fat from your body. In reality, it’s a complex surgical procedure requiring skillful hands to reap the best results. Only a proficient and experienced liposuction doctor can ensure a smooth-sailing procedure with natural-looking and contoured results.
Where can I find a good liposuction doctor in Singapore?
Doctors who want to provide liposuction needs to be accredited by the Ministry of Health (MOH) in Singapore.
For the best results that don’t look overdone, Dr Puah advises looking for a doctor known to have an artistic sense – someone whose philosophy towards body sculpting is similar to that of a sculptor creating a masterpiece with a chisel. Dr Puah himself adopts a “70% art and 30% science” approach that has enabled him to achieve results that complement his patients’ overall appearance consistently. He has more than 15 years of surgical experience performing liposuction. His proprietary body sculpting technique, the MDC-Sculpt Lipo, allows for thorough fat removal and targeted body sculpting with minimal scarring.
Dr Ivan Puah obtained his Vaser Liposuction training in Colorado and Argentina. He has also received training in Laserlipolysis (Laser Liposuction) in Italy and dedicated gynecomastia surgical training in San Francisco.
Liposuction cost in Singapore
Liposuction cost varies among the different practices. Cost is an important consideration factor, but when it comes to liposuction, a patient's safety, well-being, and quality of result are more important.
Of course, there are other factors to consider before booking a liposuction consultation appointment, such as:
Word of mouth
Word-of-mouth recommendations from either family or friends, particularly those who have undergone liposuction, is the ideal first step. Nonetheless, a search on the Internet will reveal a list of liposuction doctors.
The Ministry of Health strictly regulates liposuction in Singapore, so ensure that the doctors you have shortlisted are accredited by to perform liposuction. Read the reviews and take note of patients' experiences on other factors such as bedside manners and professionalism.
Experience of the doctor
An experienced doctor with numerous liposuction procedures can address a patient's needs and anticipate potential issues that may arise. Steady hands, an equally composed mind, and nerves are assets that come with experience.
Consistent results are also good indicators, so find out more about the doctors you have listed. Ask for before and after photos, and find out the average number of liposuction procedures they do in a month.
Complexity of surgery
A doctor should preferably have a good eye for aesthetics to visualise the desired-looking results and, with his know-how, materialise them. Each body part is unique and requires a different approach. A genuinely experienced doctor can undertake this challenge with confidence and relative ease.
Patient Care
Attention to patient care is an essential prerequisite for every doctor. After all, a patient's safety, comfort and well-being is of utmost importance. This requirement extends beyond the doctor to include the medical team and facility. Post-operative care and how they handle emergencies are factors that should also be taken note of.
Compliance level
Doctors should also respect and adhere to MOH rules and regulations in Singapore. A doctor's ethics is just as important as his credentials.
Transparent Communication
Open and honest communication is vital throughout a patient's journey. A doctor should be a good listener and communicator. They should understand patients' needs, alleviate worries and concerns, and confidently address any patient's queries. Trust is essential and must be gained.
