Types of liposuction: which should you choose?

Types of liposuction

Physical appearance can influence your self-esteem and confidence and you may seek ways to enhance your natural contours and get rid of fat deposits that don’t seem to go away despite diet and exercise.

Liposuction may be the solution you need. However, choosing the right one can be daunting, with multiple liposuction techniques available in Singapore. In this article, we will share the types of liposuction available and guide you in selecting the appropriate one for your needs. 

VASER liposuction

VASER (Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance) liposuction is a modern technique that uses ultrasonic waves to break down fat cells. This method allows for targeted fat removal, making it easier to avoid harm to other parts of the body.

Advantages of VASER liposuction

  • Precision: Ideal for sculpting and defining muscles, making it popular among those looking to achieve a more athletic appearance.
  • Less Trauma: The ultrasonic technology reduces damage to surrounding tissues, leading to less bruising and a quicker recovery time.
  • Skin Tightening: VASER can stimulate collagen production, helping to tighten the skin in the treated area. 

Power-assisted liposuction (MicroAire)

Power-assisted liposuction, such as the MicroAire system, uses a vibrating cannula to disintegrate fat cells. The cannula’s mechanical movement allows fast and efficient fat removal. 

Advantages of power-assisted liposuction

  • Efficiency: The vibrating cannula speeds up the fat removal process, reducing procedure time.
  • Less Bruising: The method is gentler on tissues, leading to less bruising and swelling.

Ideal candidates

PAL is ideal for patients seeking a less invasive option with a faster recovery time. It is suitable for larger areas of fat removal, including the abdomen, back, and thighs. 

Water-assisted liposuction (BodyJet)

Water-assisted liposuction, also known as BodyJet, uses a jet of saline solution to dislodge fat cells and simultaneously suction them out. This technique is known to be gentle on the body.

Advantages of water-assisted liposuction

  • Minimising trauma: The water jet gently dislodges fat cells, reducing damage to the surrounding tissues.
  • Hydration: The saline solution helps hydrate the area, reducing post-operative swelling and bruising.
  • Reduced Pain: The technique is known for being less painful, with a smooth recovery process.

Ideal candidates

WAL is suitable for individuals who prefer a gentle approach to fat removal, particularly in delicate areas such as the neck, arms, and inner thighs. It is also beneficial for those concerned about post-operative pain and downtime.

Considerations when choosing a liposuction technique

Here’s a handy table for you to make your decision on liposuction.

Consideration
VASER liposuction
Power-assisted liposuction
Water-assisted liposuction
Body type and target areasFor areas with dense fat and detailed sculptingFor larger areas and provides quick resultsSuitable for delicate or smaller areas and for those with a lower pain threshold
Desired resultsHigh-definition results with prominent muscle definitionOverall fat reduction and smoother contoursGentle fat removal and minimal discomfort
Recovery time and downtimeTypically offers quicker recovery with less bruising and swellingModerately quick recovery period with reduced tissue traumaOften results in the least pain and swelling, suitable for those needing to return to daily activities swiftly

Maintaining liposuction results

Achieving your desired results from liposuction is just the beginning of your journey towards a more contoured and sculpted body. To ensure long-lasting results and maintain your new physique, it’s essential to adopt a healthy lifestyle and follow specific post-operative care guidelines. Here are some tips to help you maintain your liposuction results:

  1. Adopt a balanced diet

    A healthy, balanced diet is crucial in maintaining your liposuction results. Focus on incorporating a variety of nutrient-rich foods, including:

    • Fruits and vegetables: These should form a significant part of your diet, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre.
    • Lean proteins: Include sources such as chicken, fish, tofu, and legumes to support muscle repair and growth.
    • Whole grains: Opt for whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and whole-wheat bread to ensure sustained energy levels.
    • Healthy fats: Incorporate healthy fats from avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil to promote overall well-being.
  2. Stay hydrated

    Drinking plenty of water is essential for overall health and helps maintain your body’s optimal function. Staying hydrated can also aid in controlling hunger and preventing overeating.

  3. Regular exercise

    Engaging in regular physical activity is key to maintaining your liposuction results. Aim for a mix of cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and flexibility workouts:

    • Cardio: Activities like walking, running, swimming, and cycling help burn calories and improve cardiovascular health.
    • Strength training: Lifting weights or doing bodyweight exercises like squats and push-ups helps build and maintain muscle mass.
    • Flexibility: Incorporate stretching or yoga to improve flexibility and prevent injury.
  4. Monitor your weight

    Keep a regular check on your weight to ensure you stay within your desired range. Significant weight gain can affect the results of your liposuction, as remaining fat cells can expand, altering your body contours.

  5. Follow post-operative care instructions

    Immediately after your procedure, follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions meticulously. This may include:

    • Wearing compression garments: These help reduce swelling and support the treated areas as they heal.
    • Avoiding strenuous activities: Give your body time to heal by avoiding heavy lifting and intense workouts as advised by your surgeon.
    • Attending follow-up appointments: Regular check-ups with your surgeon ensure that your recovery is on track and any concerns are promptly addressed.
  6. Maintain healthy habits

    Adopt and maintain healthy lifestyle habits that support your overall well-being:

    • Avoid smoking: Smoking can impede your healing process and negatively impact your skin’s appearance.
    • Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol can lead to weight gain and affect your health negatively.
    • Manage stress: Practise stress-reducing techniques such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, and engage in hobbies to maintain your mental and emotional health.

Consult a MOH-Accredited plastic surgeon

Importance of a consultation

Choosing the correct liposuction technique begins with consulting a Ministry of Health (MOH)-accredited plastic surgeon in Singapore. A qualified surgeon can assess your needs and recommend the optimal method based on your body type, goals, and health status.

Assessment and recommendations

During your consultation, the surgeon will: 

  • Evaluate your medical history to ensure your suitability for the procedure.
  • Examine the target areas and discuss your desired outcomes.
  • Recommend the most suitable technique based on your needs, explaining each option’s benefits and potential risks.

Questions to ask your doctor

Here are some questions you can ask your doctor to ensure you get the best treatment:

  • What are your qualifications and certifications?
  • How many years of experience do you have performing liposuction?
  • Can you provide before-and-after photos of previous patients?
  • Do you have any patient testimonials or reviews I can read?
  • Which liposuction technique do you recommend for me, and why?

Liposuction in Singapore

Selecting the right liposuction technique in Singapore involves understanding the benefits of each method and how they align with your body type, target areas, desired results, and recovery preferences. Consulting with an experienced and accredited plastic surgeon like Dr Lee Hanjing can help you navigate these choices and achieve the desired body contouring results. 

Dr. Lee Hanjing at Argent Plastic Surgery is an MOH-accredited plastic surgeon in Singapore with experience in various liposuction techniques. She provides personalised care tailored to each patient’s unique requirements. From pre-operative planning to post-operative follow-up, Dr Lee ensures a smooth and supportive experience throughout your liposuction journey.

Book a consultation to learn more about liposuction.