Liposuction has become the most commonly performed cosmetic surgery procedure world – wide. There is a rising trend towards larger volume liposuction. Increasing number of “over weight” people, rising awareness levels, peer pressure to look good and increase in safety profile of liposuction have contributed to the rise in number of surgeries performed and larger volumes being aspirated.

Mega-liposuction is an advanced medical procedure for those who are obese and when all other weight loss procedures have failed to reduce their excess weight. Aspiration of more than eight to ten liters of fat in one sitting is termed mega liposuction. The proportion of mega liposuctions being performed is increasing world – wide as more and more surgeons get convinced of its safety. Up to 20 liters can be aspirated in one sitting in well – selected cases and in a hospital setting with good infrastructure.

Liposuction is not meant for weight loss, the primary aim is body contouring. When large volumes of fat get aspirated, amount of weight loss also happens.

Liposuction is not a substitute for a poor lifestyle – maintaining the results requires regular exercises and calorie restricted diet. Liposuction removes most of the fat cells on the areas treated, hence the chance of putting on weight in these areas get reduced. The procedure is deemed safe in the hands of an experienced plastic surgeon.  

Volume reduction of the subcutaneous fat is followed by healing and readjustment of the skin to the new contour. However, if you have flabby skin as a result of pregnancy or sudden weight loss, the skin will become more sagging after liposuction. Such cases require a “lift\ tuck” procedure in addition. The more elastic the skin, better the liposuction results. 

As most of the mega liposuctions are performed under General Anesthesia, monitored anesthesia is essential. General Anesthesia offers maximum comfort to the patient as circumferential contouring of back, front and sides can be performed without subjecting patients to inconvenient positions.   

It is important that such surgeries be performed at a good surgical facility with all supportive measures and back up facilities. This clearly is not a surgery to be undertaken in small clinics.  

Bruising, swelling and soreness are to be expected post procedure. These are temporary effects of surgery and are expected to resolve in 3-4 weeks. Major risks include pulmonary edema, hemorrhage, and toxicity from local anesthetic. There are fortunately rare. Patients who are high – risk for pulmonary embolism need appropriate preventive measures.  

Ultrasound assisted liposuction (UAL) and power assisted liposuction (PAL) have reduced surgeons work effort. These new techniques are advantageous on scarred areas and in secondary liposuctions.   

Although newer instruments have certain advantages to them, ultimately the quality of result is dependent on the skills of the surgeon.