Most people associate plastic surgery with women. But even men get cosmetic surgery nowadays, with liposuction for men being one of the most popular procedures for the other half of the population.
If you’re a man thinking about getting liposuction, keep reading this article to know more about the procedure and what you can expect from it.
What does liposuction for men do?
Liposuction helps remove excess fat cells in the body. While results differ for every patient, liposuction is still performed in the same way across the board—by sucking out stubborn, jiggling fat with a thin tube known as a cannula.
Just like liposuction for women, male liposuction aims to give men a better body contour and image. While it’s not a substitute for weight loss, it can still remove excess fat cells that create unsightly mounds of fat in certain areas of the body.
How is it different from female liposuction?
The ideal body shape for men consists of broad shoulders and chest, a flat abdomen and a narrow hip-thigh area. For most men, a good physique means having an athletic-looking figure.
It’s different for women, who usually desire an hourglass figure. That’s why when it comes to male liposuction, the surgeon targets different areas compared to women’s.
Men also have denser and thicker fat cells than women. This means that fat is more difficult to extract as because of its tendency to adhere firmly to the layer over the muscle.
If you’re thinking of getting liposuction for men, try to look for a plastic surgeon who has plenty of experience in male liposuction, not just someone who mostly worked on female patients before.
What are the common target areas in this surgery?
While women mostly focus on their hips and thighs, men set their sights on removing the fat on their abdomen to make space for the six-pack abs they’re working hard to achieve.
This also extends to love handles, a common concern for both genders. Some men may also opt to get liposuction for their neck to have a more sculpted jawline.
What are the benefits of male liposuction?
Liposuction for men corrects men’s problem areas, specifically the abdominal area. While liposuction doesn’t contribute much to weight loss, removing excess fatty deposits can still make you feel lighter. It can also provide a spark for you to live a healthier lifestyle.
Male liposuction also reduces your overall fat percentage, improving your body frame and sculpting areas where muscle development isn’t as apparent as other parts of your body.
It can also help treat gynecomastia or male breast enlargement, as part of the reason for the condition is fat accumulation.
Liposuction can also treat lipodystrophy syndrome, which is the abnormal distribution of fat in the body. The procedure can even fat out and give you a naturally desirable physique.
Are you a good candidate?
Male liposuction is not for everyone. While it is one way to combat stubborn fat cells, men over their ideal weight aren’t qualified to undergo the procedure.
To be a good candidate, you should be within 30% of your ideal weight. Having firm, elastic skin is also a must. If you smoke, you should stop at least six weeks before your liposuction to promote better wound healing afterwards.
If you have health problems such as heart disease or diabetes, you need clearance from your primary care physician before going forward with the procedure.
How is liposuction for men performed?
While doctors target different areas depending on the patient’s preference, the procedure is generally the same.
First, your surgeon marks your skin to serve as a guide during the procedure. He then administers general or local anesthesia to your operative site.
If you opt for general anesthesia, you’ll be asleep during the liposuction. On the other hand, you’ll be conscious but will feel numb of any pain if you go for local anesthesia.
Afterward, your plastic surgeon makes a small incision that can accommodate the cannula. It is used to loosen excess fat before it is suctioned out of the body with a surgical vacuum.
All these take place within an average of two hours.
How long is the recovery process?
Compared to other procedures, liposuction for men has faster recovery time. You might experience only mild discomfort or soreness that lasts for a few days.
Your doctor will most likely prescribe you with painkillers and analgesics to help relieve pain and inflammation. He’ll also provide you with support bandages to cover your operated area.
You’ll most likely be up and about in a couple of days. However, you can’t lift anything heavy for up to six weeks after your liposuction. Also, expect to have swelling and soreness for a few weeks.
Since liposuction requires only small incisions, you usually won’t be required to stay overnight. Make sure to have someone accompany you to your appointment and drive you home afterwards.
How much is male liposuction?
Liposuction for men usually costs about $5,000 to $7,000. This makes it a worthy investment if you’re looking forward to achieving a better physique without the stubborn fatty deposits in certain areas of your body.
As for insurance, liposuction is rarely covered unless it’s considered medically necessary. Despite that many plastic surgeons offer flexible financing options so that you can get the surgery without burning a huge hole in your pocket.
