Key Takeaways
- Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes small, localised fat deposits - it is not a weight-loss treatment.
- The procedure can address areas such as the abdomen, thighs, hips, arms, and neck, and may be combined with other surgeries when appropriate.
- Recovery involves temporary swelling and bruising, with compression garments recommended to support healing.
- As with all surgery, risks and potential complications are discussed in detail during consultation to ensure patients are fully informed.
- At Gold Coast Plastic Surgery, liposuction is performed by Dr Mark Doyle, FRACS (Plas) - a Specialist Plastic Surgeon with more than 30 years of experience, prioritising safety and individualised care.
Localised fat deposits may persist for some people in certain areas despite healthy lifestyle measures. Liposuction is a medical procedure designed to address these areas, using specialised techniques to remove fat in a controlled manner. While it is not a weight-loss procedure, liposuction may be considered to change the distribution of fatty tissue and modify the contour of the treated area.
What is Liposuction and How Does It Work?
So, what is liposuction? It involves the removal of small, localised deposits of fat beneath the skin using a thin, hollow tube called a cannula. During the procedure, a surgeon carefully inserts the cannula through small incisions and gently suctions the fat. The technique allows for targeted removal of fat from the treated area, commonly used for localised fat deposits that remain after lifestyle change. The procedure is performed under anaesthesia, and the approach and technique vary depending on individual anatomy and clinical assessment.
Common Areas Treated with Liposuction
Liposuction can be used on multiple areas of the body. It is frequently performed on the abdomen, hips, thighs, buttocks, and flanks. The procedure can also be applied to more targeted areas, including the chin, neck, and upper arms, in conjunction with other surgical procedures.
Chin and Neck Liposuction
Liposuction can address excess fat beneath the chin and along the neck. In these cases, it is often performed alongside a facelift rather than as a standalone treatment.
Arm Liposuction
Arm liposuction is sometimes combined with a brachioplasty, or arm lift, to address excess tissue and skin in the upper arm.
Is Liposuction Safe?
Many of our patients ask, ‘Is liposuction safe?’ When performed by a specialist plastic surgeon in an accredited facility, the procedure follows recognised safety standards; however, all surgery carries risk. A thorough consultation is essential to assess individual health factors, discuss expectations, and review any potential risks.
The Liposuction Procedure and Recovery
Liposuction is typically performed under local or general anaesthesia, depending on the area and volume of fat being treated. Surgical duration can vary but often lasts between one to several hours. After the procedure, swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common and may take several weeks or longer to subside. Compression garments are recommended to support healing and assist with tissue recovery.
Liposuction in Brisbane and Gold Coast
Gold Coast Plastic Surgery offers liposuction to patients across South-East Queensland, including both Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Our clinic’s accessibility means that individuals can reach a qualified surgeon without travelling extensively.
Potential Risks and Complications
Potential side effects of liposuction include bruising, swelling, numbness, and contour irregularities. These are usually temporary but are discussed in detail during the consultation to ensure patients understand the procedure and possible outcomes.
Why Choose Gold Coast Plastic Surgery?
At Gold Coast Plastic Surgery, procedures are performed by Dr Mark Doyle, a Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS) with more than 30 years of experience. He follows a treatment planning process that prioritises safety and is based on each patient’s individual assessment and surgical requirements.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you are considering liposuction in Brisbane or the Gold Coast, contact us to schedule a consultation. In line with AHPRA and Medical Board of Australia regulations, a GP referral is required before your consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. This ensures that patients receive safe, informed, and professional care.
About Dr Mark Doyle FRACS (Plas) – Queensland Plastic Surgeon
Servicing patients in Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Cairns and New South Wales NSW – Northern Rivers, Byron Bay, Ballina, Lismore and more.
Dr Mark Doyle is a fully qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon with over 30 years of experience performing breast, body, face and nose surgery. He has completed all required training and only carries out approved surgical practices. There are NO undertrained doctors or cosmetic doctors acting as surgeons at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery.
