Liquid Lipo to Remove Stubborn Fat: Procedure, Aftercare & Risks

Liposuction is one of the safest fat reduction methods, with various techniques such as laser-assisted, power-assisted, ultrasound-assisted, VASER, and tumescent. Thanks to the advancement of liposuction surgery methods and devices, all these methods are safe and low-risk; however, liquid liposuction is the safest type of lipo surgery. This article discusses the procedure, complications, and postoperative care of liquid liposuction and answers some of your questions.

What Is Liquid Liposuction?

Liquid liposuction also known by many names such as water-assisted liposuction, softlipo, body-jet surgery, and aqua lipo is a cosmetic procedure that involves removing excess fat deposits from specific areas of the body using a specialized technique. Unlike traditional liposuction, which requires general anesthesia, liquid liposuction is performed under local anesthesia.

In fact, this cosmetic procedure is a safe alternative to more invasive types of liposuction, and its procedure is similar to tumescent liposuction in some ways. A solution containing saline, lidocaine (a local anesthetic), and epinephrine (a medication that constricts blood vessels) is injected into the targeted area. This solution helps numb the area and minimize bleeding. Afterward, a small cannula (thin tube) is inserted through tiny incisions to suction out the liquefied fat cells. 

Liquid liposuction can contour various body areas, including the abdomen, hips, thighs, arms, chin, and neck. Being highly accurate and noninvasive, liquid liposuction is suitable for removing unwanted fat pockets in specific body parts and has a short downtime.

Is Liquid Lipo a Safe and Efficient Procedure?

Is liquid lipo safe? Does it have side effects? To get the answer to this common question, you should be aware that this procedure is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. However, as with any surgical operation, there are potential risks and complications, such as infection, bleeding, scarring, uneven contouring, fluid buildup, and anesthesia-related hazards.

Another question individuals with this procedure might also worry about: "Does liquid lipo work?" Indeed, this surgery is generally considered successful at eliminating extra fat and shaping the physique. Nevertheless, It is important to remember that the outcomes may change depending on specific elements like the amount of fat removed, the patient's general health, and adherence to post-operative care recommendations.

Good Candidate for Soft lipo

All patients who wish to get rid of their stubborn fat deposits through Soft Lipo should schedule a consultation first, as this method may not be suitable for people with certain characteristics. In general, a good candidate for liquid liposuction has the following features:

• Being over the age of 18;
• Being physically and mentally healthy;
• Having stubborn fats that do not go away by diet and exercise;
• Not being pregnant or breastfeeding;
• Being a non-smoker;
• Being within 30% of their ideal weight;
• Having firm and elastic skin;
• Having good muscle tone and 
• Not having serious health issues that threaten their life. 

What Parts of the Body Can Be Treated by Soft Lipo?

Almost all parts of the body where stubborn fat pockets have accumulated can be treated by soft lips; however, this treatment works better on four parts: double chin, armpit and bra bulge, jowls, and inner thighs. 

• For double chin: if you have a large double chin, submental soft lips help you eliminate fat deposits and have a smooth jawline. The plastic surgeon destroys fat cells permanently by injecting water and anesthetics under the chin in 3 or 4 sessions of 45 minutes. It is suggested that the treatment sessions be separated by 4 weeks. 
• For jowls: jowl refers to excess fat and skin around the jaw (lowest part of the cheek) that tends to sag as people age. Soft lipo can destroy the fat cells of jowls for good, but if you have too much saggy skin, it might not be a good option for you.
• For armpit and bra bulge: Women with large breasts usually have pockets of fat near their armpit, pushing out of the bra straps and making the body’s surface uneven. Bra bulges are hard to treat with diet and exercise, but liquid liposuction can remove them entirely within one 45-minute session. 
• Inner thighs: The best part of the body for getting soft lips is the inner thigh. With two or three sessions of this treatment, the fat deposits in the inner thigh will be removed, and the legs slimmer.

Before Liquid Liposuction

Before liquid liposuction, your doctor asks you to provide a complete medical history so that they can check your previous operations, allergies, and current medications. They also run tests and physical examinations to ensure you are a good candidate for this operation. Moreover, they will adjust your medications and prescribe one or two courses of antibiotics to treat any potential infection in your body. You should avoid taking blood-thinning drugs, smoking, and drinking to prevent possible complications like bleeding and infection.

Liquid Liposuction Procedure

As mentioned earlier, the procedure of liquid liposuction is quite the same as tumescent lipo. In this operation:

1. The surgeon begins by making a tiny incision in a less apparent part of the operating site
2. Next, the surgeon inserts a surgical water jet with a diameter of 0.1 centimeters into your body. This device injects a fat-dissolving solution containing water (or steam) and lidocaine (or other local anesthetics) into the fat cells to destroy their bond. 
3. Lastly, after the fat walls have been melted, the liquid is removed from the body using a cannula suction device. 

Since this lipo surgery is done under mild sedation, you can return home on the same day.

Liquid Liposuction Recovery and Aftercare

The total recovery time of liquid liposuction ranges between six to eight weeks. Most people can return to work and their daily routine within 3 days, but the exact time you can return to work depends on how well your body reacts to the surgery and how fast your wounds heal. For two to three weeks after soft lips, consider the following points to obtain better results and have a less challenging recovery period. 

• Wear compression garments 24/7. You can only take it off when you are showering; 
• Keep your incisions clean once the bandages are removed;
• Avoid bed rest. Walk around the house gently from the third day after the surgery to reduce the inflammation and lower the chance of blood clots;
• Avoid strenuous activities such as running and biking;
• Avoid contact sports and crowded places where you may be hit;
• Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol;
• Reduce caffeine and sodium intake;
• Drink plenty of water;
• Add more protein and fiber-rich foods to your meals;
• Take the full course of antibiotics to prevent infection and
• Apply a cold compress to minimize the swelling and bruising.

Read more: Liposuction Aftercare: Useful Tips for Lipo Recovery Period

Liquid Lipo Side Effects

Since soft lipo is done with water, it has no risk of thermal burn or injury to internal organs. Despite being rare, few people may face the following risks and side effects after this cosmetic procedure.

• Swelling;
• Bruising;
• Moderate scarring;
• Lidocaine toxicity;
• Contour irregularities;
• Infection;
• Prolonged numbness in the operated part;
• Skin rash and itchiness;
• Kidney and lung problems;
• Fat necrosis;
• Fat embolism and 
• Formation of seroma.

Read more: Long-Term Side Effects of Liposuction

Liposuction in Iran

In Iran, various techniques of lipo surgery are practiced, the most popular of which is VASER lipo, laser-assisted and ultrasound-assisted. Most plastic surgeons in Iran have graduated from top universities and have completed complementary training courses abroad; therefore, they are updated, educated, and impeccable. It is also worth mentioning that the cost of liposuction in Iran ranges between $1,500 to $2,500, covering hospital charges, medications, and surgeon’s fees.

Liposuction in Iran

FAQs About Liquid Liposuction

1) How long does liquid liposuction take?

On average, each session of liquid liposuction takes 45 to 60 minutes. 

2) Are the results of soft lips permanent?

In soft lips, the fat cells are destroyed entirely. If you don’t gain a significant amount of weight, the results of this operation are permanent.

3) Is liquid liposuction safe?

Liquid liposuction is an FDA-approved treatment and has no or a few risks and side effects.

4) How many days should I stay home after soft lips?

Soft lipo is sometimes called‘ weekend lipo’ because it lasts two or three days. In other words, you can resume your daily activities from the third day after this operation.

5) Will I gain more weight if I use liquid lipo?

The answer is no; liquid lipo lowers the size of fat cells within the skin by microencapsulating the subcutaneous tissue and opening the cell's pores. When the pores are opened, the fat transforms into liquid and is further squeezed. The extra fat is then eliminated naturally through water. Due to the fact that fat cells naturally grow as you consume food, the results are long-lasting.