Liposuction

Abstract

Liposuction is the second most common invasive cosmetic technique performed in the United States. The most common indication is for contouring of the abdomen in postpartum women. However, it is often used in many areas of the body to treat lipodystrophy affecting everything from the neck all the way down to the legs. Additional indications include gynecomastia, hypermastia (breast reduction), chronic nonfibrous lymphedema of the lower extremities, and thinning of bulky pedicled or free flaps. Since its introduction by Illouz in the early 1980s, liposuction has evolved significantly with various fat destruction modalities that facilitate evacuation by the surgeon. The basic principle contains the infiltration of a tumescent solution into the treatment area followed by the removal of intermediate and deep layers of subcutaneous fat by various suction cannulas. Regardless of the technique used, important knowledge of anatomy and fat topography is essential to avoiding major contour deformities postoperatively.