Liposuction of the upper and lower back is a cosmetic surgical procedure used to contour the body by removing excess fat.

The procedure is performed with a small incision made on the body where fat is to be removed. An instrument called a cannula is inserted into the incision where the fat deposits are located and breaks up the fat along with the area being shaped and contoured. Once the fat is broken up, a high-pressured vacuum will suction away the unwanted fat and the incision is closed.

Most people can benefit from liposuction of the upper and lower back. To be an ideal candidate, one must have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery, be in good health, exercise regularly, are bothered by stubborn body fat, and are looking for reshaping not weight loss. Also, a good candidate will be well informed of the procedure, and does not have a medical condition such as diabetes or poor blood circulation.

After upper and lower back liposuction, the area of treatment will be bruised and swollen, but this subsides within three weeks. To speed the healing process, your doctor will encourage engaging in light activity as soon as possible, to reduce the chances of any post-operative complications. The typical full recovery time can last a few days to months, but depends on the size of the area treated. In less than a week, you should be able to return to work if it is in usually deskbound. You should continue to wear your compression garment until your doctor says it’s no longer necessary. The pain and discomfort after surgery is usually minor, and can be relieved with pain medication. After a couple weeks the compression garment can be removed and within six weeks most patients should be able to resume all normal activities. Liposuction of the upper and lower back varies from patient to patient, but most return to normal over the next several months.

Liposuction of the upper and lower back is a common surgical procedure. The majority of these operations are successful, but like all medical procedures upper and lower back liposuction does involve a certain amount of risks. Expected possible complications include bruising, numbing, and discomfort. Some patients may experience dimpling, scarring, lumpiness, discoloration, or sagging skin in the treated area. To correct these problems, follow-up surgery may be needed. More serious complications include infection, blood clots, damage to the skin or nerves, excessive fluid loss, damage to vital organs, scarring, fluid build-up, or an allergic reaction to medication or anesthesia. A combination of any of these increases the risk of serious complications, including death. Before and after surgery, all instructions should be following from the doctor in order to minimize these risks.

The after effects of upper and lower liposuction and visible results may not be seen until after six months to a year. Liposuction is not a substitution for weight loss. To maintain their new figures, patients should exercise frequently and maintain a well-balanced diet.