Liposuction in Zurich

It treats defined fat deposits that persist despite a stable weight and regular exercise — commonly on the flanks, abdomen, hips, thighs, inner knees, upper arms, back or at the chin–neck transition.

The aim is a calmer contour and a more harmonious transition between regions, not the removal of as much fat as possible.

It does not treat obesity, loose skin, stretch marks, separated abdominal muscles or visceral fat inside the abdominal cavity. If the abdomen bulges from within, the cause does not lie in the subcutaneous fat.

Cellulite is not reliably improved by liposuction and can in individual cases become more visible.

In principle, all regions with defined subcutaneous fat are suitable. How much can sensibly be treated in one session depends on the total area, the operating time, the fluid balance and pre-existing conditions — not on the wish for as many zones as possible.

After fat removal, the skin must adapt to the smaller volume. With good elasticity this largely succeeds; with pre-existing laxity, marked stretch marks or after major weight loss, skin remains and the contour can appear looser than before.

Skin quality is therefore assessed before fat distribution, not the other way round.

If excess fat with good skin tension is the main concern, liposuction is the more conservative procedure, with smaller scars and a shorter recovery. If excess skin or a weakened abdominal wall predominates, liposuction alone will not achieve the goal.

A mixed picture is common. It is then weighed up which component predominates, whether a combined approach is sensible and which scar is accepted in return.

Cannula-assisted removal

Through incisions a few millimetres in size, the subcutaneous fat is first infiltrated with a solution (tumescence) and then removed in a fan pattern via fine cannulas. Work is carried out in layers to preserve smooth transitions.

Technical variants

Various systems exist to support fat release, for example vibration-assisted or energy-based systems. No variant is fundamentally superior to all others; the choice depends on the region, the tissue and the findings.

Anaesthesia

Small, defined regions can be treated under local anaesthesia, with sedation if necessary. Larger or multiple regions are treated under general anaesthesia.

Surgery

Marking is done standing. The operating time depends on the number and size of the regions; the incisions are closed finely.

Compression

Compression garments are worn for several weeks. They support the skin in settling and the subsiding of swelling.

Swelling and bruising

Both are pronounced in the first two to three weeks and then slowly subside. A feeling of tightness and numbness over weeks is usual.

Everyday life

Light activities are often possible after a few days. Early short walks are part of thrombosis prevention.

Sport

Sport is resumed in stages and after medical clearance, usually increasing over several weeks.

Final contour

A reliable assessment is usually only possible after about three to six months.

Contour irregularities

These are the most common aesthetic limitation: they can appear as dents, ripples or steps, particularly with a thin fat layer or limited skin quality.

Seroma

Fluid collections can occur and occasionally need to be punctured.

Asymmetry

Differences between the sides often exist beforehand and may remain visible after surgery.

Further risks

Postoperative bleeding, infection, wound healing problems, persistent changes in sensation, discolouration, and thrombosis and embolism. Very rare serious complications are discussed during the informed consent consultation.

Revision

A correction of individual areas is possible but is only assessed after regression is complete, generally no earlier than six months.

The medical consultation for surgical procedures costs CHF 250. If you subsequently book an operation with us, the consultation fee is credited in full against the price of the operation. Following the examination, you will receive an individual cost breakdown that clearly states which services are included.

• Dr. med. Michael W. Payne

  Specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery

• Dr. med. Dr. Phil. Annemarie Nijboer

  Specialist in Surgery

• Body surgery — overview
• Tummy tuck
• Liposuction or tummy tuck — decision guide
• Upper arm lift
• Excess skin after weight loss — decision guide
• Insights — body

The initial consultation is about clarification, not selling. It does not necessarily end with a surgery date — often it brings the realisation that a different approach, or no procedure at all, is the right choice.

The consultation process

1. 01

   Discussion

   We listen to your concerns, medical history, expectations and what you would like to change about your appearance.

2. 02

   Examination

   A careful clinical examination and assessment of your underlying anatomy.

3. 03

   Options

   Possible procedures, alternatives, limitations and risks — explained clearly and without time pressure.

4. 04

   Time to reflect

   You decide in your own time. Any outstanding questions can be addressed in a further consultation.