Liposuction has retained its crown as the most popular plastic surgery procedure for the third year in a row, according to a recent report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).
With body contouring trends on the rise, it’s no surprise that people are turning to this trusted method to achieve their aesthetic goals.
To understand the factors driving its continued popularity, we spoke with Dr Ivan Puah.
Meet the expert: Dr Ivan Puah, an aesthetic doctor and medical director at Amaris B. Clinic, is committed to providing exceptional patient care. He has received international training in liposuction and gynecomastia, published research papers, and developed several body sculpting surgical techniques.
Why Liposuction is Still Leading the Pack
According to Dr Puah, several key factors contribute to the enduring appeal of liposuction. At the core is its unmatched effectiveness in delivering “immediate and noticeable results.”
“Liposuction effectively removes localised fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise,” explains Dr Puah. This makes it particularly appealing for those who are looking for more dramatic changes than what non-surgical alternatives can offer.
Another major draw is the procedure’s versatility. Liposuction can be performed on a wide variety of areas, “including the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, arms, and neck,” allowing patients to target multiple problem zones in one session.
Recent advances in liposuction techniques, “such as ultrasound-assisted and laser-assisted liposuction, have also made the procedure safer and less invasive, with quicker recovery times.” This has helped broaden its appeal across different demographics.
Dr Puah also notes that societal pressures have fueled the demand for body-contouring procedures. “Media and social media often highlight slim and toned physiques, which increases the demand for body-contouring procedures like liposuction,” he adds.
“As for the future, it is likely that liposuction will continue to be popular next year and beyond,” he says.
What Happens During a Liposuction Procedure?
Liposuction is a highly customisable procedure designed to improve body contours by removing excess fat deposits. Dr Puah outlines the typical steps involved:
- Anaesthesia: “Depending on the extent of the procedure and patient preference, local or general anaesthesia may be administered to ensure comfort during the surgery.”
- Small Incisions: “I will create small, discreet incisions at strategic areas on the skin which can be concealed easily.”
- Tumescent Solution: “A sterile solution is administered into the target areas. This solution helps to numb the area, reduce bleeding, and facilitate fat removal.”
- Cannula Insertion: “A thin, hollow tube called a cannula is inserted through the incisions.”
- Fat Removal: “I will manoeuvre the cannula back and forth beneath the skin to break up the fat cells, which are then suctioned out of the body through the tube.”
- Sculpting: “I will carefully contour the treated areas to ensure a smooth, natural-looking result.”
Commonly Targeted Areas
While liposuction can be applied to various parts of the body, Dr Puah highlights that the most commonly targeted areas differ between men and women.
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For women
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- Abdomen
- Waists
- Hips
- Thighs
- Calves
- Upper arms
- Underarms
- Face/neck
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For men
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- Abdomen
- Waist
- Chest
- Neck
Busting Myths About Liposuction
Despite its popularity, liposuction is often misunderstood. Dr Puah sheds light on some of the most common misconceptions:
Myth #1: Liposuction is a weight-loss solution.
Truth: “Liposuction is primarily a body-contouring procedure, not a weight-loss solution,” clarifies Dr Puah. “It is designed to remove localised fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise, thereby improving the shape and proportion of specific areas of the body.”
Myth #2: Fat will return if you gain weight after liposuction.
Truth: “The fat that is removed from targeted body areas with liposuction, will not return to the same area regardless of changes in body weight.”
Myth #3: Liposuction is painful with long recovery times.
Truth: “Post-liposuction discomfort will depend on the areas being treated. In general, based on my experience, patients will be able to perform 80 to 90% of their daily activities within days after the surgery,” says Dr Puah.
How Safe is Liposuction?
Like all surgeries, liposuction does carry some risks, but Dr Puah emphasises that it is generally safe when performed by a qualified, experienced professional.
Some patients still harbour concerns about the risks associated with liposuction, often based on misconceptions or outdated information. Dr Puah believes that education is crucial in addressing these fears.
“For patients who are convinced of the deadly dangers and negative stigma associated with liposuction, it is important to provide balanced and accurate information,” says Dr Puah.
To minimise risks, it is important to choose “a doctor with many years of liposuction experience, with excellent safety records and adhering to all preoperative and postoperative instructions.”
Dr Puah also stresses the importance of setting realistic expectations “by discussing the potential benefits and limitations of the procedure.”
“Liposuction is a body-contouring procedure, not a weight-loss method,” he reiterates.
He also shares success stories with patients to demonstrate positive outcomes and encourage informed decision-making. “I encourage patients to ask questions and make decisions based on accurate information rather than misconceptions or stigma.”
Why Amaris B. Clinic Stands Out
At Amaris B. Clinic, Dr Puah has refined his liposuction approach to deliver optimal results with minimal downtime.
His signature MDC-Sculpt®? Lipo technique is a multi-dimensional contouring method tailored to each patient’s unique body shape, fat distribution, and skin laxity.
“My technique doesn’t just remove fat; it also promotes skin tightening for a smoother, more natural look. Patients typically return to normal activities within just one to two days, and scarring is kept to a bare minimum,” he shares.
Dr Puah’s approach to liposuction emphasises not only fat removal but also body sculpting, creating natural, well-defined contours that reflect each patient’s individuality.
As liposuction continues to lead the way in cosmetic procedures, it’s clear that its appeal lies in its ability to provide safe, immediate, and long-lasting body transformation.
Whether you’re considering it for your abdomen, arms, or waist, with the right information and a skilled liposuction doctor like Dr Puah, liposuction could be the key to achieving your dream figure.
Schedule a consultation with Dr Ivan Puah today to enquire about liposuction at +65 6536 4211.
Amaris B. Clinic is located at 140 Arab Street, Singapore 199827.
