Liposuction contouring emerged decades ago as a technique to remove stubborn deposits of fat that would not disappear, despite patients trying various diets, weight loss or exercise regimens. This technique has evolved, with new devices frequently introduced, but the basic method remains similar. A small incision is made in the skin, and fluid (tumescent solution) is injected into the adipose tissue to assist with fat removal and minimize bleeding and pain. Next, a hollow metal rod (cannula) is inserted under the skin and repeatedly passed through the adipose layer. The cannula is attached via a tube, which is connected to a suction source, so the fat-containing fluid is aspirated and deposited into a container.
Traditionally, the surgeon performed the task of repeatedly passing the cannula through the adipose tissue.
The York Plastic Surgery Centre utilizes Power Assisted Liposculpture (PAL), a newer, more efficient liposuction technique with a motorized reciprocating cannula tip. Once excess fat is removed, both traditional liposuction and PAL rely on the elasticity of the overlying skin for it to rebound and conform to the new, flatter body contour.
However, if a person has abnormal skin elasticity (from aging, weight loss, genetic factors, etc.), liposuction could make the skin laxity even worse. When determining if liposuction alone will yield good results, it is necessary to consider whether there is sufficient skin tone to tighten over the newly contoured area. In addition, liposuction is not meant as a weight loss technique. Typically, only a moderate amount of fat (perhaps 30-40%) is removed from the prominent area. If the procedure is too aggressive, the risk of skin injury, contour deformities and other complications will increase.
When performing abdominal liposuction (with or without tummy tuck surgery), Dr. Andrade typically makes three small incisions about 4-5mm long, located strategically along the edge of the rib cage, over the pelvic bone (iliac crest), and lateral flanks (“love handles”). By contouring the waist from three different points, it is possible to maximize the contouring effect at the slimmest part of the waist, helping to achieve the hourglass figure patients desire.
It is important to note that liposuction accentuates and improves on the curves that already exist. For patients who have a “trunk-like” shape due to their underlying musculoskeletal anatomy, no amount of liposuction will create a “snatched” waistline.
Your consultation appointment with Dr. Andrade will address the following:
On the Day of Your Procedure:
Bruising and swelling are very common after liposuction surgery. Bruising is usually gone by 2-3 weeks, but the swelling can persist for many months. It can take 8 months or longer to see the final result.
The majority of patients having liposuction surgery will not have a complication, but every surgery has risks. Bleeding, subcutaneous fluid collection called seroma, infection, and abnormally thick scars (keloids) can develop postoperatively. Rarely, major organs, nerves or blood vessels in the vicinity of the liposuction-contoured area could be injured, or fat particles could dislodge and go to the lungs (fat embolism), which could be a life-threatening breathing problem. Having a general anesthetic for any procedure entails the risk of dental damage, windpipe (trachea or vocal cord) injury, extremity numbness, DVT, allergic reactions or other problems. Liposuction contouring is not an exact science, so the procedure can result in asymmetry and focal contour depressions. If the area to be contoured already has cellulite (lipodystrophy), this appearance could be worse after liposuction.
Alternatives to liposuction surgery include avoiding surgery and instead trying lifestyle changes to decrease overall body fat. Non-surgical interventions include injecting the fat deposit with medicine designed to break down some of the fat (mesotherapy) or machines applied to the overlying skin to disrupt the underlying fat. The degree of improvement with these techniques is subtle, but it might be sufficient for some patients.
On the other end of the spectrum, patients with both excess fat and loose overlying skin might benefit from more extensive surgery than liposuction alone, like tummy tuck, arm lift, thigh lift, or other operations that remove redundant skin. These procedures are offered at the York Plastic Surgery Centre.
This information is intended to complement the advice of Dr. Andrade obtained during a proper consultation, and it is not guaranteed to be current, exhaustive or complete.
Hourglass liposuction is a body contouring procedure designed to sculpt the waist, hips, and flanks, enhancing natural curves to help patients achieve an hourglass figure. It is often combined with abdominal liposuction for maximum contouring.
The procedure involves small incisions through which a cannula is inserted to remove stubborn fat deposits. Techniques like Power Assisted Liposuction (PAL) allow precise fat removal while minimizing risks and promoting smoother contours.
Ideal candidates have sufficient skin elasticity and localized fat deposits that don’t respond to diet or exercise. It’s important to note that liposuction enhances curves but cannot create an hourglass figure if the underlying anatomy does not support it.
Although most patients recover without complications, liposuction carries risks such as swelling, bruising, infection, seroma, and rare events like fat embolism. Your surgeon will discuss risks based on your anatomy and procedure plan.
Results vary based on fat distribution, skin elasticity, and surgical technique. Many patients notice improvements within a few weeks, with final results visible after several months. Before and after images can provide realistic expectations.
Most patients can resume light activity the same day. Compression garments are worn for 4–6 weeks to reduce swelling. Full recovery varies but final contour results typically appear after 6–8 months.
Targeted abdominal liposuction removes fat from the waist and flanks, accentuating natural curves. When combined with careful contouring along the hips, it helps achieve a more defined hourglass silhouette.
