Liposculpture (Liposuction)

Is it for you?

If you have not had a cosmetic procedure before and are contemplating doing so, then we recommend that you read our section “Is Cosmetic Surgery For You?”
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Meet the doctor

Dr Argie

With ACCS and CPSA qualifications, a passion for cosmetic medicine and over 10years of medical experience, Dr Argie believes that the key to beauty is to enhance the features we like and to hide the ones we don’t. Read more...

WHAT IS LIPOSCULPTURE (OR Liposuction)?

Liposculpture (same as liposuction) is a procedure whereby deposits of unwanted fat are removed using suction and a long hollow metal instrument known as a cannula. The procedure was pioneered in the 1970s by the French physicians Illouz and Pierre Fournier. Since that time thousands of men and women have undergone successful liposculpture, often with dramatic results. Liposuction removes localised deposits of fat that often exercise and diet alone may not. Consequently it is a procedure designed to restore proportionality to the body, it is not a weight loss or a cellulite treatment. There is minimal scarring and recovery is relatively fast. What’s more the fat removed can be placed in other areas of the body, such as lips, cheeks, chin and hands.

Before	After



Liposculpture performed by Dr Xaftellis Copyright © Argera Anti-Aging

IS IT SAFE?

Twenty years ago liposuction was considered a risky procedure, however since the “tumescent technique”’ was mastered in 1985, it is now known as one of the safest cosmetic procedures. The reason is three fold; firstly the tumescent technique infuses saline with lignocaine (a local anaesthetic) and adrenaline into the areas to be treated. This lifts the fat away from dangerous underlying structures, reduces bleeding and bruising and most importantly anaesthetises. Consequently the patient does not need a general anaesthetic which has a high number of associated risks. Instead “twilight sedation” can be used allowing the patient to be relaxed and comfortable during the procedure and makes the need for an over night stay in hospital a rare occurrence. All other risks and concerns are explained to the patient in the detailed consultation process.

Before	After


Liposculpture performed by Dr Xaftellis Copyright © Argera Anti-Aging

WHAT ARE THE RESULTS AND HOW LONG WILL THEY LAST?

Liposculpture generally has a very pleasing outcome. For some, it allows a change in clothing size, kick starts or complements further weight loss, removes an embarrassing problem and can boost confidence and self esteem. The results may be seen as early as two to four weeks after the procedure with the final results being at 12months, as the skin continues to tighten. Once the fat cells are removed they do not grow back. That is, liposculpture is permanent. However, the remaining fat cells can grow in size so if care is not taken with diet and exercise fat will be put on all over the body including the treated area. So, be prepared to treat your new body as a treasured asset and look after it!

Before	After


Liposculpture performed by Dr Xaftellis Copyright © Argera Anti-Aging

HOW LONG WILL I NEED OFF WORK AND GYM?

The tumescent technique allows patients to return to normal daily life quickly in comparison to other forms of liposuction. Most people take off three days to a week from work. Pain is usually not a concern as with most patients equating the post op pain as being similar to having gone for a long run after a period of inactivity. A post operative garment must be worn after the procedure for 4 to 6weeks to improve the final result. This is very discrete and comfortable, and generally not a factor in returning to work. Exercise starts the day after the procedure, the patient needing to walk about 3km a day until fully mobile. Return to normal exercise begins around the two to four week mark.

Before	After


Liposculpture performed by Dr Xaftellis Copyright © Argera Anti-Aging

WILL PEOPLE KNOW I HAVE HAD LIPOSCUPLTURE?

Only if you tell them!

Before	After




Liposculpture performed by Dr Xaftellis Copyright © Argera Anti-Aging

WHAT’S THE COST?

Our doctor has a passion with liposculpture. She sees it as a challenging art form to achieve beautiful and acceptable contours in the body whilst maintaining safety and patient satisfaction. She is a perfectionist in her work and her patient care. As such she requires the patient to understand the procedure fully and encourages them to ask questions. For this reason she conducts two consultations for liposculpture. The initial consultation provides information and ensures the suitability of the procedure, and the second (free of charge) to answer additional concerns the patient may have, to book a time and to arrange any pre-op medical and garments.