Article

Lipectomy

Lipectomy is a surgical procedure for the removal of excess subcutaneous fat tissue. It is used in both reconstructive and cosmetic contexts, particularly for buttock reduction, contouring, or correcting deformities after massive weight loss. Lipectomy may be performed as a standalone procedure or in combination with other body contouring techniques such as gluteoplasty, liposuction, or liposculpture.

Techniques

Traditional Lipectomy: Involves direct excision of fat and sometimes skin, often through an incision placed in a natural crease. This is typically reserved for cases where large volumes of fat or redundant skin must be removed (e.g., after bariatric surgery).
Suction-Assisted Lipectomy: Also known as liposuction, this technique uses a cannula and negative pressure to remove fat. It is less invasive and leaves smaller scars.
Ultrasonic-Assisted Lipectomy: Uses ultrasonic energy to emulsify fat before removal, allowing for more precise contouring and reduced trauma to surrounding tissues. See ultrasonic_liposuction.
Lymph-Sparing and Tumescent Techniques: Used in reconstructive lipectomy for conditions like lipoedema or lymphedema, these methods aim to preserve lymphatic vessels and minimize complications. See tumescence.

Indications

Buttock reduction or reshaping for aesthetic or functional reasons
Correction of contour irregularities after massive weight loss
Treatment of medical conditions such as lipoedema, lipomas, or lymphedema
Revision of previous cosmetic procedures

Risks & Complications

Contour Irregularities: Unevenness or asymmetry may occur, especially if large volumes are removed or if healing is impaired. See contour_irregularities.
Seroma: Accumulation of fluid at the surgical site. See seroma.
Infection: Risk at incision or cannula sites.
Fat Embolism: Rare but potentially fatal, especially if fat enters the bloodstream during fat transfer. See fat_embolism.
Paresthesia/Neuroma: Numbness, tingling, or nerve pain due to nerve injury. See paresthesia, neuroma.
Scarring: More prominent with open excision than with suction-assisted techniques.
Skin Necrosis: Rare, due to compromised blood supply.
Implant Complications: If performed in conjunction with buttock_implants, risks include capsular_contracture, implant_explosion, or implant_displacement.

Recovery & Aftercare

Compression Garments: Worn to reduce swelling and support healing. See aftercare.
Wound Care: Keep incisions clean and dry; monitor for signs of infection.
Mobility: Early gentle movement is encouraged, but strenuous activity should be avoided until cleared by a surgeon.
Nutrition: Adequate protein, vitamins (C, zinc), and hydration support tissue repair. See contour_irregularities for nutrition tips.
Follow-Up: Regular check-ups to monitor healing and address complications.

Outcomes

Results depend on the technique, patient anatomy, and adherence to aftercare. Lipectomy can achieve significant improvements in contour and function, but some patients may require revision procedures for optimal results. Scarring is generally more noticeable with open excision than with liposuction-based methods.

Writing Tips

Use sensory detail: Describe the feel of compression garments, the sensation of swelling or numbness, and the emotional impact of body transformation.
Show the process: From pre-op anxiety to post-op vulnerability and anticipation.
Acknowledge variability: Not all results are perfect; healing and satisfaction differ by individual.

Example

"She pressed her palm to her hip, feeling the subtle ache beneath the compression garment. Each day, the swelling faded, and her new curves became more defined—a transformation both thrilling and strange."