Commonly referred to as `liposuction', suction lipectomy simply means removing body fat by a vacuum device. It has recently proven to be a safe and minimally invasive means of giving the body a better shape without scarring. It is always best to consider this procedure when the patient has attained an optimal weight through diet and exercise but the troublesome bulges remain. The best results are found in patients of normal weight who have healthy, elastic skin and, as always, realistic expectations. Those problem areas usually involve the thighs, abdomen, waist, buttocks, knees and legs, however; liposuction can be performed successfully on parts of the upper torso also. Chin implantation is sometimes accompanied with liposuction of fatty tissue in the upper neck area under the jaw.
The number of fat cells in the body is fairly well established by adolescence and remains constant throughout adulthood. When a person gains or loses weight, the gain or loss is in the size of the individual fat cells, not the number. That is why losing weight often doesn't change the basic shape of the body. However, doctors believe that once the fat cells have been removed by liposuction, they do not grow back. It is felt that the patient's more pleasingly defined silhouette will be long lasting or even permanent if he or she exercises regularly and maintains good dietary habits. Anyone considering liposuction should realize that liposuction will not prevent weight gain or weight regain. The procedure is not and should not be considered a means of weight control.