Many people carry localised fat in areas that can be difficult to reduce through lifestyle changes alone. 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 solution, it is a surgical option that is sometimes used to alter body contour.
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 anesthesia, and the approach and technique vary depending on individual anatomy and clinical assessment.
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.
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 is sometimes combined with a brachioplasty, or arm lift, to address excess tissue and skin in the upper arm.
Many of our patients ask, ‘Is liposuction safe?’ Like all surgical procedures, it carries some risk. However, when performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon in an accredited facility, it is generally considered safe. A thorough consultation is essential to assess individual health factors, discuss expectations, and review any potential risks.
Liposuction is typically performed under local or general anesthesia, 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, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which generally resolve over several weeks. The use of compression garments is common to support healing and contouring.
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 seeking expert care can reach a qualified surgeon without travelling extensively.
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.
At Gold Coast Plastic Surgery, our team is led by Dr Mark Doyle, a fully qualified FRACS plastic surgeon with extensive experience in liposuction. His approach emphasises patient safety and careful planning, with treatments individually tailored to each patient’s needs.
If you are considering liposuction in Brisbane or the Gold Coast, contact us to schedule a consultation. In line with AHPRA regulations, a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is required before any cosmetic surgery procedure. This ensures that patients receive safe, informed, and professional care.
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.