Localised Fat: Contouring Options, Limits and Risks

Localised fat can remain despite changes in weight or activity. Body-contouring procedures may alter shape in a selected area, but they are not treatments for obesity and cannot guarantee a particular size, weight or appearance.

Start with assessment

Assessment should cover weight stability, skin quality, the location and depth of fat, health, medicines, smoking, previous operations and expectations. A clinician should also consider whether a lump, swelling or another condition needs investigation rather than cosmetic treatment.

Options and limits

Options may include no procedure, nutrition and activity support, a non-surgical contouring method or liposuction. Non-surgical methods and liposuction work differently, have different evidence and risks, and are not interchangeable. More than one session may be discussed, but a fixed response cannot be promised.

Risks and recovery

Possible effects vary by method and can include pain, swelling, bruising, numbness, skin injury, burns or cold injury, contour irregularity, asymmetry, infection, scarring, blood clots and dissatisfaction. The treating clinician must set personal guidance for garments, work, exercise and travel.

Revitalize care checks

Confirm the named contracted clinician and facility, exact method or device, treatment area, alternatives, anaesthesia if relevant, written quotation, follow-up and complication plan. See Revitalize’s liposuction information, treatment process and assessment route.