Despite hours in spin class and a strict diet, genetics are largely to blame for stubborn chub under the chin, bra bulges and flab around the knees. Micro lipo differs from traditional liposuction because smaller tools are used to target these hard-to-shrink areas. The result is permanent sculpting that’s minimally invasive. Put simply, this mini liposuction means a smaller cannula tube is used on a small zone, under local anesthetic. Patients can usually go back to work the next day. For added skin tightening, micro lipo can be performed with a laser or radio-frequency tool.
Under the Chin
With micro liposuction, a tiny cannula is used to suction small pockets of for precise sculpting. “You get a focused result with less bruising and swelling, and you can be accurate about the fat removal,” says Dr.Richard A. Rival, MD, FRCSC. Under the chin is the top site for this hour-long procedure, costing $2,500. The patient can be fully awake and walk out of the office.
Above the Knee; Inner Knees
“These areas are very tricky to get any sort of improvement without surgical contouring,” says Dr. R. Stephen Mulholland, MD, FRCSC, of Toronto’s SpaMedica. Since it’s nearly impossible to get rid of chubby knees with diet or exercise, micro lipo here is increasingly becoming an effective option. In fact, Demi Moore is rumoured to have indulged in this procedure.
How to Sculpt Your Body with Targeted Lipo
Ankles (Not Ideal)
Thick ankles or “cankles,” as they’re known, are trouble spots many women may want to sculpt, but the area is tricky. “I try to talk people out of this if it’s modest or mild, because it’s a risky area,” says Dr. Mulholland. Concerns centre on a higher risk of post-operative complications like venous thrombosis and phlebitis.
Back
While it was one of several procedures done on Heidi Montag, don’t be surprised if you haven’t heard of “back scooping.” Strategic pockets of fat are removed to contour the back, take in the waist and reduce those hard-to-lose bra bulges.
Inner Arms
Rapidly gaining and losing weight can come with an unfortunate side- effect—saggy underarms. Usually, in addition to targeted fat removal, some type of skin tightening is added for optimal results, says Dr. Mulholland.
Inner Thighs
The experts agree fat here doesn’t seem to budge — even with tons of exercise. Shaping the upper inner thighs can be done under local anesthetic, with contouring lasting for years. Compared to traditional liposuction, the bruising and recovery time is also lessened since there’s not as much trauma.
