The Procedure Liposuction is a surgical procedure for the removal of localized deposits of subcutaneous fat anywhere in the body. This technique involves small incisions and a high vacuum to remove fat cells in selected regions, thereby reducing contour in the treated areas. The cannula is attached by flexible tubing to a vacuum pump that removes the fat by suction as the cannula is manipulated beneath the skin. Although the procedure was originally developed for the torso and thighs, it is now used on all areas of the body. It is particularly helpful in contouring the area under the chin and as an adjunct to face lifting.
Fat distribution is determined by two factors, namely heredity and diet.
Heredity determines the location and number of individual fat cells, which are fixed and unchanging after puberty. Diet can increase or decrease the amount of fat in each cell but will not affect the total number of cells or their distribution. For example, if someone has inherited large numbers of fat cells on the thighs and small numbers of fat cells on the chest, he or she will always have more fat on the thighs than on the chest. Even strenuous attempts at weight loss can then still leave the person with a thin upper body and persistently bulky thighs. A person's appearance after liposuction will be influenced by his or her general state of health, the overall condition of the skin, age, weight, hormonal influences and other factors.