Liposuction

Overview

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that involves making small incisions of a few millimeters in the skin, inserting a cannula (a thin metal tube), and directly suctioning out fat cells from the subcutaneous fat layer. It effectively removes localized fat that is difficult to reduce through dieting and is performed on various areas including the abdomen, thighs, upper arms, flanks, back, and under the chin. Various techniques have been developed including tumescent, ultrasound-assisted (VASER), laser-assisted, and water-jet liposuction. Depending on the surgeon's skill, results can go beyond simple fat removal to achieve 'body sculpting' that beautifully contours the body's curves.

Mechanism

Tumescent solution (saline + local anesthetic + epinephrine) is first injected into the treatment area to expand the fat layer and minimize bleeding. A cannula is then inserted to physically break up fat cells and suction them out using negative pressure. With VASER, ultrasonic energy first emulsifies (liquefies) the fat cells before suctioning, resulting in less damage to surrounding tissues and a skin-tightening effect. Since removed fat cells do not regenerate, fat is unlikely to return to that area. However, remaining fat cells can enlarge, so weight management remains important.

Effects

Physical removal of fat from the target area allows for immediate body contour changes. Final results are seen 3–6 months post-surgery once swelling fully subsides. Noticeable size reduction and improved body lines are achievable in the abdomen, thighs, upper arms, and other areas. Since removed fat cells do not regenerate, long-term results are maintained.

Duration

1–4 hours depending on the area and extent. Performed under local or sedation anesthesia; general anesthesia may be required for extensive procedures.

Recovery

Compression garments must be worn for 4–6 weeks post-surgery. Normal activities can usually resume after 3–7 days, but intense exercise is recommended only after 4–6 weeks. Swelling and bruising occur for 1–2 weeks and gradually subside over 3–6 months as the final body contour takes shape. The skin may feel uneven initially, but this typically smooths out over time.

Side Effects

Bruising, swelling, and pain occur in almost all patients and resolve naturally over time. Contour irregularity (uneven skin surface) is the most common aesthetic complication, with incidence varying significantly based on the surgeon's skill. Excessive fat removal may cause skin sagging or depression. Rare but serious complications include seroma, infection, skin necrosis, and fat embolism—treatment by a qualified specialist is essential. Uneven areas after liposuction can be improved with fat-dissolving injections as a supplementary treatment.

Price Range

1.5–5 million KRW per area. Full abdomen (upper + lower + flanks) typically costs 4–8 million KRW; full thighs (inner + outer) 3–6 million KRW. Prices vary by hospital, surgeon experience, and equipment used (standard cannula vs. VASER).

Target Audience

Suitable for those with stubborn localized fat unresponsive to diet and exercise, those who are generally slim but have concentrated fat in specific areas (abdomen, thighs, upper arms), and those seeking definitive body contour changes in a short period. More appropriate for localized fat than severe obesity (BMI 30+), as this is a body contouring rather than weight-loss procedure.

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