Skin tightening after liposuction for lipoedema

When is surgical skin tightening necessary for lipoedema?

Thanks to our standardised skin treatment using special cannulas directly after liposuction, surgical skin tightening can be avoided in most cases, even if the skin quality is poor.

In very pronounced findings and in advanced stages, however, in certain cases there is considerable excess skin after liposuction, which does not regress sufficiently due to the skin's contraction potential, so that surgical skin tightening may be necessary. This regression of the skin varies greatly from person to person and depends on the patient's age, skin quality and genetic factors. In addition to the cosmetic aspect, functional problems such as skin irritation or localised inflammation can also occur, particularly on the inner thighs or upper arms.

After liposuction, the skin is left to recover for up to 12-24 months before surgical skin tightening is indicated.

How is skin tightening performed?

During a thigh or upper arm lift, excess skin and fatty tissue is removed, with the incision being made as inconspicuously as possible on the inside of the thigh or upper arm. Skin tightening is performed under general anaesthetic and is generally very well tolerated. Lymphatic channels and smaller blood vessels are spared as much as possible during this procedure.
At the end of the tightening operation, a compression garment is applied, which should be worn 24 hours a day for six weeks to support wound healing and tightening results. Physical rest is necessary for 3-6 weeks.

Depending on the individual findings, laser-assisted skin tightening (also known as laser lipolysis) can be performed as an alternative - we will be happy to advise you on this in a personal consultation with one of our doctors.