Liposuction is a surgical procedure used to remove localised areas of excess fat that do not respond or are resistant to diet and exercise. The procedure can be performed on several areas of the body, including; the abdomen, sides, thighs, arms and other targeted regions. Individuals considering Liposuction often have questions about suitability, how the procedure is performed, recovery, expected outcomes, risks and costs. To support informed decision-making, Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Gary Kode has compiled a list of Liposuction FAQs to provide clear, educational information about the procedure and what it involves.
Dr Kode consults in both Melbourne and Launceston, with all surgical procedures performed in accredited hospitals in Melbourne. The information on this page is general information only and does not replace professional medical advice. A consultation with Dr Kode allows for a thorough assessment of individual anatomy, discussion of treatment options and tailored recommendations based on personal circumstances and goals.
Liposuction is a surgical procedure used to remove stubborn fat deposits that do not respond to non-surgical interventions, like diet and exercise. It can help alter the body shape and appearance of the targeted areas.
Individuals may consider Liposuction for a range of personal and anatomical reasons, including:
It’s important to note that Liposuction is not a substitution for weight loss. A consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon, like Dr Kode is required to determine whether the procedure is appropriate based on individual anatomy, health status and goals.
Liposuction may offer the following potential benefits:
It is important to note that outcomes vary between individuals. Liposuction does not address skin laxity or overall weight and is not a substitute for weight loss or lifestyle changes.
Liposuction may be performed on a range of areas including the abdomen, sides, thighs, hips, arms, back, chest and under the chin. Suitability depends on individual anatomy and skin quality.
No. Liposuction is not a weight loss procedure. It is a body surgery designed to remove targeted fat deposits rather than reduce overall body weight.
Liposuction physically removes fat cells through a surgical approach, whereas non-surgical fat reduction techniques rely on external methods to target fat cells over time. Liposuction typically produces more noticeable changes in suitable candidates.
Suitable candidates are generally:
Liposuction may not be suitable for individuals seeking weight loss, those with significant skin laxity, or individuals with medical conditions that increase surgical risk. A personalised assessment is needed to determine suitability.
Yes. This is one of the main functions of Liposuction. It is used to treat areas of fat that remain despite consistent diet and exercise efforts.
Liposuction may be suitable after weight loss if localised fat deposits remain. However, if excess skin is present, additional or alternative procedures may be more appropriate.
Yes. Liposuction suitability is not determined by gender. Suitability depends on individual factors such as fat distribution, skin quality, general health and surgical goals.
Liposuction can be used to address localised abdominal fat in suitable candidates. It is not designed to treat visceral (deep internal) fat or replace lifestyle measures.
Yes. Liposuction may be performed on the thighs and/or arms to address localised fat deposits, provided skin quality and anatomy are appropriate.
Liposuction involves the surgical removal of localised fat deposits using a small hollow tube (cannula). After infusing a fluid solution to prepare the tissues, fat is extracted to alter body shape. The procedure is tailored to each patient’s anatomy and goals.
Yes. There are several different Liposuction techniques to assist fat removal. Dr Kode prefers to use the wet technique with Microaire-assisted technology, which supports even fat removal and may reduce trauma to surrounding tissues.
Tumescent Liposuction involves injecting a fluid mixture containing saline, local anaesthetic and a vasoconstrictor into the targeted area. This expands the fat layer, reduces bleeding, and facilitates smoother fat removal.
Power-assisted Liposuction uses a mechanised cannula that helps dislodge and remove fat cells. This can allow controlled fat extraction with less physical effort.
Ultrasound-assisted Liposuction is a technique that uses ultrasonic energy to help break down fat cells before they are removed. The ultrasound energy is delivered through a probe, which helps liquefy targeted fat deposits, allowing for more controlled removal with suction.
Dr Kode does not routinely use ultrasound-assisted Liposuction. His approach focuses on techniques that suitably match individual anatomy and surgical goals. He determines the most appropriate method during consultation.
Dr Kode considers factors such as the area being treated, the amount of fat, patients skin quality and overall body shape. During a consultation he reviews goals, anatomy, health history and desired outcomes to select the most suitable technique for each individual.
Dr Kode performs Liposuction while patients are under general anaesthesia in fully accredited hospitals. For small, localised treatments, local anaesthesia may be considered depending on the plan and patient needs.
The amount of fat removed is individualised and depends on several factors, including surgeon advice, patient anatomy, skin quality, treatment area and overall goals.
Dr Kode prioritises proportional results rather than maximum volume removal to achieve optimal outcomes.
The duration varies with the number of areas treated and surgical complexity. The procedure may take one to several hours based on treatment areas and whether it is performed alongside other procedures.
Incisions are small (a few millimetres) and where possible Dr Kode will make them in discreet locations or skin creases to reduce their visibility.
Yes. Liposuction can be performed on more than one area during the same operation. However, this depends on the area/s being treated, your surgeon’s advice and medical assessment.
Yes. Liposuction can be performed alongside other procedures to achieve a more comprehensive result. The most suitable approach is determined during a consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon.
Yes, Dr Kode performs Liposuction surgery in accredited hospitals.
Hospital accreditation confirms that the facility complies with established healthcare standards, has appropriately qualified staff, suitable equipment and processes in place to manage patient safety, anaesthesia and postoperative care.
Patients can expect some swelling and bruising as well as mild to moderate discomfort in the treated areas. This is part of the healing process. Dressings and support garments may be applied and patients will be monitored in hospital before being discharged. Pain relief, ice packs, rest and light movement is advised to help manage early discomfort.
Most people experience mild to moderate discomfort rather than severe pain in the first few days. This can typically be managed with prescribed or over the counter medication, rest and activity modifications.
Recovery varies between individuals depending on how many areas were treated and the amount of fat removed. Many patients return to light activities within a few days, while full recovery (including swelling and settling of tissues) may take 4–6 weeks or more.
Swelling and bruising are typically at their peak in the first few days and can persist for 2–3 weeks before gradually reducing. Some residual swelling may continue for several months as internal healing continues.
Dr Kode, does not recommend the use of compression garments. However, he does recommend support garments (lighter more even pressure) day and night for the first 4 weeks and during daytime for a further 4–8 weeks as advised.
However this will depend on the treatment area and Dr Kode’s individual recommendation.
Most patients can resume light, non-strenuous work within a few days to a week, depending on comfort and the physical demands of their job. Recovery may vary based on how many areas were treated and individual healing.
Light walking and activity can usually be resumed early to support circulation, but strenuous exercise, heavy lifting and gym work are typically avoided for around 4–6 weeks or until cleared by Dr Kode.
Driving may be resumed once you are comfortable, not taking sedating pain medications and able to perform an emergency stop without discomfort. This is often within a few days but varies per individual and area treated.
During early recovery, avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and activities that place stress on the treated areas. These restrictions usually remain in place for several weeks to support healing and reduce swelling.
Liposuction is performed using small incisions, typically only a few millimetres in length. These incisions are placed in discreet locations or skin folds where possible, such as the groin crease, under the breast fold, or behind the elbow, to reduce their visibility over time.
While scarring is a part of the healing process and cannot be avoided, most Liposuction scars tend to fade gradually and become less noticeable with time.
Dressings are changed as advised and you will receive instructions on keeping the area clean.
Follow-up appointments with Dr Kode allow for monitoring of healing and guidance on scar care and any additional support needed.
Early changes may be noticeable once initial swelling subsides, usually within a few weeks. Final results take longer to become apparent. This often takes several months, as swelling dissipates and tissues settle.
Results are considered long-lasting provided weight remains stable. Liposuction removes fat cells from treated areas, but long-term outcomes depend on lifestyle and body weight changes.
Fat cells removed during Liposuction do not regenerate. However, remaining fat cells in untreated or treated areas can enlarge with weight gain, which may affect overall body shape.
Liposuction is designed to remove fat, not excess skin. Some skin retraction may occur depending on skin quality. Individuals with significant skin laxity may not be suitable for Liposuction and may be suitable candidates for excess skin removal surgery.
Quality skin elasticity allows the skin to adapt and retract to the new shape after fat removal. Reduced or poor skin elasticity due to age, weight changes or genetics may limit how the skin reacts to the procedure.
Changes in sensation, firmness or sensitivity can occur during healing. These changes are usually temporary (although they may be permanent in rare cases). In most cases sensations will return over time as nerves and tissues recover.
Liposuction may reduce the appearance of significant asymmetry, however asymmetry exists in most bodies. Symmetry cannot be guaranteed.
Yes. Significant weight gain or loss after surgery can alter results. Maintaining a stable weight supports long-term outcomes.
Although the Fat is removed and does not regenerate, Liposuction does not prevent future weight gain, nor does it affect metabolism. Diet, exercise and lifestyle habits are important to maintain results.
Liposuction removes fat deposits, while a Tummy Tuck/Abdominoplasty addresses excess skin and abdominal muscle separation. They treat different concerns and may be performed together in selected cases.
Costs vary depending on treatment areas, surgical complexity, hospital fees and anaesthesia. An individual consultation is required for an accurate quote.
Factors include the number of areas treated, duration of surgery, hospital stay, anaesthetic requirements, individual anatomy and follow up care.
Quotes generally include surgeon’s fees, hospital fees, anaesthetic fees and post-operative care. Inclusions are clarified during consultation.
Generally no, if Liposuction is performed for cosmetic reasons it is not covered by Medicare.
In rare cases where Liposuction is performed for a recognised medical reason. E.g. for reconstructive reasons.
Private health insurance may contribute to hospital or theatre fees if a valid Medicare item number applies, depending on policy level and waiting periods. As Liposuction rarely falls into this category patients will have to fund the procedure themselves.
Initial consultations with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon may attract a Medicare rebate when referred by a GP.
Fees depend on procedure length, type of anaesthesia, hospital facility and whether an overnight stay is required.
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that carries risks and requires appropriate planning, facilities and recovery, particularly when multiple areas are treated.
Risks may include bleeding, infection, fluid accumulation, contour irregularities, changes in sensation and scarring.
For more information visit our Risks of Cosmetic Surgery and Complications.
Most patients heal without complication, but all surgery carries inherent risks which are discussed prior to the procedure as part of the informed consent process.
A seroma is a collection of fluid that can occur after surgery. It may resolve on its own or require drainage.
In some cases, additional procedures may be considered to address concerns or healing variations.
Early recognition, follow-up appointments and appropriate medical management are key. Treatment depends on the type of the complication that occurs.
Careful patient selection, surgery in accredited hospitals, adherence to post-operative instructions and attendance at follow-up appointments help reduce risks.
You should contact your surgeon if you experience increasing pain, redness, fever, unexpected swelling or any concerns during recovery.
Choosing a qualified surgeon is an important part of preparing for Liposuction Surgery. In Australia, Brachioplasty procedures must be performed by a suitably trained and accredited medical practitioner. There are several steps patients can take to help make sure they are selecting an appropriately qualified professional. Key considerations when researching a Liposuction surgeon include:
Look for a surgeon who is appropriately trained, experienced in Liposuction and registered as a Specialist Plastic Surgeon.
Specialist Plastic Surgeons have extensive training in anatomy, surgical technique and complication management.
They should hold FRACS (Plast) and be registered with AHPRA as a Specialist Plastic Surgeon.
Accredited hospitals meet strict safety, equipment and staffing standards to support patient care and emergency management.
Questions may include suitability, expected recovery, risks, alternatives, costs and post-operative care.
Experience contributes to appropriate patient selection, surgical planning and management of recovery, which are important aspects of care.
This information is general only and does not replace a consultation with a qualified medical practitioner. Surgical outcomes, risks and recovery experiences vary. All surgery carries risks, and patients should seek personalised medical advice. Decisions regarding surgery should only be made after a full consultation, assessment and discussion with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon.