Name of the Procedure:

Suction Assisted Lipectomy; Lower Extremity
Common names: Liposuction, lipoplasty, suction-assisted fat removal

Summary

Suction Assisted Lipectomy is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess fat deposits from the lower extremities (thighs, calves, and ankles) to improve body contours and proportions.

Purpose

This procedure addresses localized fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise. The goal is to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the lower extremities by removing unwanted fat, thus improving body shape and proportion.

Indications

• Stubborn fat deposits in the thighs, calves, or ankles
• Patients with good skin elasticity and muscle tone
• Individuals in good overall health who do not have medical conditions that can impair healing
• Patients who are close to their ideal weight but seek fat removal from specific areas

Preparation

• Fasting for 8–12 hours prior to the procedure
• Stopping certain medications like blood thinners as advised by the doctor
• Pre-operative lab tests including blood work and possibly an EKG
• Arranging for someone to drive the patient home post-procedure

Procedure Description

1. The patient is given anesthesia (local, regional, or general depending on the extent of the surgery).
2. Small incisions are made near the treatment area.
3. A thin, hollow tube called a cannula is inserted through the incisions.
4. The cannula is moved back and forth to loosen excess fat.
5. The dislodged fat is suctioned out of the body using a surgical vacuum or syringe attached to the cannula.
6. The incisions are closed and dressed.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 1 to 3 hours, depending on the amount of fat being removed and the areas treated.

Setting

Performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Certified plastic surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist

Risks and Complications

• Common: Bruising, swelling, temporary numbness, minor scarring
• Rare: Infection, bleeding, anesthesia complications, fat embolism, contour irregularities
• Complications are managed through medication, follow-up care, and sometimes corrective surgery.

Benefits

• Improved body contour and appearance of the lower extremities
• Increased confidence and self-esteem
• Results are typically visible within a few weeks as swelling subsides but may take up to six months to fully realize.

Recovery

• Wearing compression garments for a few weeks to reduce swelling and support recovery
• Expect minor pain and bruising, managed with prescribed pain medication
• Usually, return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and results

Alternatives

• Non-surgical fat reduction techniques such as CoolSculpting or ultrasonic lipolysis
• Diet and exercise, though less targeted
• Pros: Less invasive, quicker recovery
• Cons: May be less effective for substantial fat removal

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort or pain is expected immediately after the procedure, managed with pain medication
• Swelling and bruising are common but will gradually diminish
• Most patients report feeling sore and tired for a few days but can resume normal activities within a week or two, with full recovery taking several months