Relevant Anatomy

RELEVANT ANATOMY

Fat located beneath the skin and above the first muscle layer is suitable for liposuction. Fat deep to the muscle layer (eg. around the internal organs) cannot be removed by liposuction. In most areas of the body there are relatively few important structures running through the superficial fat and as such liposuction can be considered a relatively safe procedure.

Anaesthesia

Depending on the size and the number of fatty deposits being treated, there are various choices for the type of anaesthesia used. Typically a specialist anaesthetist will be asked to provide a general anaesthetic.

Less frequently, when smaller areas of liposuction are being performed, local anaesthetic with or without intravenous sedation is used. These cases are usually having only 1 or 2 small areas treated and tumescent liposuction technique is used.

Where is the Surgery Performed

The majority of cases are done at Southern Cross Hospital in Wellington. Smaller cases not requiring general anaesthesia are usually performed in Dr Masters’ own operating room, he only operates in Wellington.