Lipoplasty of the Back

Suction lipectomy is among the most common invasive surgical procedures performed. The most common target area is the abdomen although other body parts such as flanks, thighs, arms and breast are also subject to lipoplasty in the hands of the most experienced practitioners. In recent years and with the increase in body contouring demand as a result of the popularity of the bariatric procedures the back has presented as a challenging area to treat. Although there are few publications available addressing this important anatomic area, a broad spectrum of techniques has been utilized to address this problem, and following the usual trend a most conservative approach is preferred. Geometrically speaking, the waist and back area form an “hourglass figure”. [1, 2] This ideal shape provides much insight into how any lipodystrophy should be treated.