Liposuction for men

Liposuction contours the body by removing localised fat deposits. Me Clinic's plastic surgeons perform liposuction for men including chest liposuction for gynaecomastia, abdomen and flank treatment, and facial liposuction for the chin and neck.

Liposuction is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures for men. It is a body contouring procedure, not a weight loss method - it addresses specific areas of stubborn fat that have not responded to diet and exercise.

How male fat distribution differs

Men and women tend to store excess fat in different areas. Women more commonly carry it in the buttocks, hips and inner and outer thighs. In men, the areas that commonly hold stubborn fat are the chest, waistline, abdomen, and the face or chin.

This is why the male liposuction areas below differ from the areas most often treated in women.

Areas commonly treated in men

Chest (gynaecomastia)

Enlargement of male breast tissue, known as gynaecomastia, is one of the most common reasons men consider the procedure. It is usually caused by a combination of excess glandular tissue and excess fat in the chest, and is difficult to address through diet and exercise alone because glandular tissue does not respond to them.

Where the excess is fatty, liposuction can remove it. Where glandular tissue is involved, a small incision below the nipple allows the tissue to be excised - liposuction alone will not remove glandular tissue. Most cases involve both.

See gynaecomastia surgery for full detail, including the four surgical techniques used.

Abdomen and stomach

The abdominal region is one of the most common areas where men accumulate fat. Liposuction is a less invasive procedure than a tummy tuck and can reduce fat in the abdominal area, though it does not tighten abdominal muscles or remove loose skin - where those are the issue, abdominoplasty is the relevant procedure.

Results vary depending on individual circumstances.

Flanks and waistline

Fat around the waistline and flanks is common in men and can be influenced by genetics, age and hormonal changes. Liposuction can reduce fat in this area to produce a more proportionate contour.

Upper arms

The upper arms are often one of the last areas to lose fat after weight loss, which can leave them disproportionate to the rest of the body. See arm liposuction.

Chin, neck and face

Facial liposuction addresses fat under the chin and along the jawline. See chin and neck liposuction and double chin liposuction.

Buttocks

Fat in this area can be reduced or reshaped. Results vary depending on individual circumstances.

What the procedure involves

A specially designed cannula attached to a suction device is used to extract fat cells through small incisions. It is usually performed in a single treatment under local or general anaesthetic, depending on the volume of fat and the number of areas.

Mid-sized to large areas such as the abdomen, flanks or back generally require a general anaesthetic. Smaller areas may be suitable for local anaesthesia. See local or general anaesthesia.

Suitability

A good candidate is in good general health with realistic expectations, has localised fat deposits rather than general excess weight, and is at a stable weight. Liposuction is generally appropriate for people within about 30 percent of their ideal body weight.

The fat cells removed do not grow back, but the fat cells that remain can enlarge if weight is gained, so maintaining a stable weight matters to the durability of the result. Smokers have an increased risk of complications.

Costs

Surgeon's fees are $4,000 to $8,000 for one area, $9,000 to $15,000 for two areas, and $15,000 to $20,000+ for three. By area: chin and neck around $5,000, abdomen around $9,000.

Gynaecomastia surgery, which is quoted separately as a procedure rather than as liposuction, ranges from $9,000 to $12,000.

Hospital, theatre and anaesthetist fees are additional; anaesthetist fees range from $800 to $1,200 per hour. As at September 2024 and including GST, a consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is $350. See liposuction costs.

Medicare

Liposuction for cosmetic contouring is not covered by Medicare. Gynaecomastia surgery can attract a rebate where it is medically necessary and meets the strict MBS criteria - the relevant item numbers are 31525 (unilateral) and 31526 (bilateral). A valid GP referral is required. Confirm current item numbers on MBS Online.

Recovery

Swelling and inflammation can be expected for roughly one month after surgery. Most patients are seen at seven to ten days, then at six to eight weeks, three months, six months and twelve months.

Risks and complications

All surgical procedures carry risks and potential complications, including infection, bruising, swelling, pain, scarring, bleeding and haematoma, seroma, contour irregularity, changes in sensation from nerve damage, anaesthesia complications and blood clots. Liposuction can be traumatic for internal organs, and visceral perforation, while uncommon, is a recognised risk.

Risks are discussed with you in detail during the consultation process, and you are given written information to take home. Please read our information on the risks and complications of cosmetic surgery before proceeding.

Individual results may vary. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Referral and cooling-off period

Since 1 July 2023, all patients are required to have a GP referral before seeing a plastic surgeon or doctor about cosmetic surgery. For any cosmetic surgery there is a compulsory one-week cooling-off period after your second consultation before surgery can be booked.

Related pages

See male breast surgery, liposuction, or all body procedures.

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