Lipo 360 is a circumferential liposuction technique that targets the entire midsection, abdomen, flanks, waist, and lower back, in a single procedure to create a dramatically more defined silhouette. Here is exactly how the process works from consultation through final results.
Step 1: Consultation and Planning
Your Lipo 360 journey begins with a thorough consultation. Your surgeon will:
- Assess your body composition and fat distribution
- Review your health history and medications
- Take measurements and photographs for surgical planning
- Discuss your goals, expected results, and any limitations
- Order pre-operative lab work and medical clearance
Step 2: Pre-Operative Preparation
In the 2–4 weeks before surgery, your surgeon will provide a detailed preparation protocol. Key steps typically include:
- Stop blood-thinning medications and supplements (aspirin, fish oil, vitamin E, ibuprofen)
- Quit smoking at least 4–6 weeks before surgery
- Arrange for a driver and post-operative caretaker for the first 24–48 hours
- Fast (no food or drink) from midnight the night before surgery
- Fill prescriptions for post-operative medications in advance
Step 3: The Surgery Itself
Lipo 360 is typically performed under general anesthesia or IV sedation. The procedure generally takes 2–4 hours, depending on the volume of fat being removed. Steps include:
- Surgeon marks the treatment zones on your standing body before entering the operating room
- Tumescent fluid (saline with epinephrine and lidocaine) is injected into treatment areas to reduce bleeding and ease fat removal
- Small incisions (3–5mm) are made at strategic points around the midsection
- A thin cannula is inserted through the incisions and used to break up and suction fat from the abdomen, waist, flanks, and back
- The patient is repositioned during surgery to access both front and back
- Incisions are closed with small sutures
Step 4: Recovery and Results
After Lipo 360, you will wear a compression garment continuously for 4–6 weeks to minimize swelling and support skin retraction. Most patients return to desk work within 7–10 days. Significant swelling resolves by weeks 6–8, with final results apparent at 3–6 months as the skin fully conforms to its new contours. Maintaining a stable weight after surgery preserves results long-term.