Liposuction

Author:Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer

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Last updated on: 27.05.2022

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Synonym(s)

Liposuction

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DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.

Gentle surgical method for removing excess, cosmetically disturbing subcutaneous fatty tissue by aspiration using a wide-lumen cannula (diameter 2-3 mm). It is usually performed on an outpatient basis under tumescent anesthesia. In case of larger aspirate volumes, substitution of fluid and electrolytes is necessary. No more than 1.5 l of adipose tissue should be aspirated on an outpatient basis, and no more than 3.0 l in total. Followed by compression bandage for 1-4 weeks.

IndicationThis section has been translated automatically.

Localized, circumscribed adipose tissue proliferation (e.g. cellulite, jodhpurs obesity, double chin), gynecomastia, lipomastia, benign symmetrical lipomatosis.

ImplementationThis section has been translated automatically.

After 1-1.5 hours of exposure time of the injected tumescent anesthetic solution in the fatty tissue, repeated post-infiltration until a plump consistency of the tissue is achieved. Access for the cannula is created via small incisions at various sites and the fat is aspirated. For larger aspiration volumes, 4 severity categories are distinguished depending on the volume aspirated, which may require general anesthesia and substitution of fluids and electrolytes :

  • Category 1: up to 600 ml; local and general anesthesia. Postoperative Ringer's lactate.
  • Category 2: 600-1200 ml; general anesthesia. Postoperative Ringer's lactate, 5% glucose.
  • Category 3: 1200-2200 ml; general anesthesia. Postoperative Ringer's lactate, 5% glucose, possibly albumin.
  • Category 4: 2200-3000 ml; general anesthesia. Postoperative Ringer's lactate, 5% glucose, albumin, possibly blood transfusion.

Complication(s)This section has been translated automatically.

Waving of the skin due to liposuction that is too superficial or incorrect cannula thickness. Connective tissue remodelling of the subcutis with scarred strands and retraction of the surface, especially in cases of excessive aspiration. Lymphedema due to injury to lymph vessels. Injuries to muscles, vessels or nerves when aspiration is too deep. Infections, hematocrit lowering, RR drop, hypovolemic shock, thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, fat embolism.

LiteratureThis section has been translated automatically.

  1. Garman ME et al (2003) Unusual infectious complications of dermatologic procedures. Dermatol Clin 21: 321-335
  2. Hanke CW et al (1990) The safety of dermatologic liposuction surgery. Dermatol Clin 8: 564-568
  3. Lehnhardt M et al (2003) No problem with liposuction? Surgeon 74: 808-814
  4. Mantse L (1987) Liposuction Under Local Anaesthesia. A retrospective analysis of 100 patients. J Dermatol Surg Oncol 13: 1333-1338
  5. Müller RPA (1990) Liposuction. dermatologist 41: 405
  6. Newman J et al (1984) Evaluation of 5458 Cases of Liposuction Surgery. On J Cosmetic Surg 1: 25-28
  7. Schmeller W et al (2003) Autologous fat transfer. Dermatologist 54: 1185-1189

Authors

Last updated on: 27.05.2022

Author: Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer