Liposuction has quickly become one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in South Africa. Liposuction, also known as “lipoplasty” or “suction lipectomy”, is a method of removing excess fat by a surgeon or trained practitioner, and is usually quick and easy enough to have done under conscious sedation, though some cases require the procedure be done in a surgical theatre under full anaesthetic. For more than three decades globally, women and men of different ages and body types have found that they could gain confidence for the first time in years after having their procedures done.
Liposuction generally works well for the following candidates:
- People in excellent health.
- People who have a stubborn accumulation of excess fat that does not respond to conventional diet and exercise.
- People who are already close to their ideal weight.
- People who already have a healthy lifestyle plan and exercise routine in place.
If you feel that you meet all the above requirements, your next question will naturally concern the cost. The costs involved in lipoplasty are largely determined by the type of liposuction procedure you opt for, as well as the specific area you wish to target. A large area of the body, like the upper and lower abdomen, will generally cost more than smaller treatment areas. Some treatment areas may be small, but remain complex, and so for places like the cheeks or chin that require more technical expertise, the cost may be higher.
Suction-Assisted Lipolysis – The Traditional Method
This method works very well for most patients and relies on forceful manual power to dislodge stubborn fat which is then sucked out. A lot of fat can be removed at once with this procedure, but can leave more bruising than the other techniques. This method has been around for a long time and is thus the most cost-friendly.
Laser-Assisted Liposuction
A laser is used to literally heat up dense fat pockets until they melt and get drained away, and any bleeding can be sealed with the laser instantly. Due to scar tissue that forms during the procedure, the skin is generally left tighter than normal. Laser-assisted lipoplasty may cost slightly more than suction-assisted liposuction, depending on the procedure
Ultrasound
At the right frequency, ultrasonic sound waves oscillate and end up breaking apart fatty tissue. Once the fat is emulsified, it is drained from the treatment area. Inserting the ultrasound device may require a larger incision, thus adding to the complexity and cost of the technique.
If liposuction is a cosmetic procedure you are considering having done, contact us at Centurion Cosmetic Clinic for more information on the costs and techniques.
