Body Liposuction Melbourne

Liposuction is a well-established surgical technique used to reshape and contour the body by removing stubborn fat deposits that don’t respond to traditional methods such as diet and exercise. For women and men in Melbourne, Dr Gary Kode, a highly experienced Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, provides body liposuction using advanced surgical techniques tailored to each individual.

Operating from accredited hospitals and with a strong focus on patient safety and natural-looking outcomes, Dr Gary Kode performs every procedure personally, without delegating to assistants — ensuring high levels of consistency, precision, and care from your first consultation through to final review.

Am I a Good Candidate for Body Liposuction?

Liposuction is not a solution for general weight loss or obesity. Instead, it is designed for individuals who are close to their target weight but struggle with localised fat deposits that do not respond to ongoing fitness efforts.

You may be a suitable candidate if:

• You are at or near a stable, healthy weight. Liposuction is most effective when used to fine-tune body proportions, not as a substitute for weight management.
• You have one or more specific areas of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise — commonly found in the abdomen, flanks, thighs, or upper arms.
• Your skin has good elasticity. This allows the skin to retract smoothly after fat removal. If significant skin laxity exists, additional procedures may be recommended.
• You are in good general health and do not smoke. Smoking and certain medical conditions may impair healing and increase surgical risks.
• You have realistic expectations and understand that results vary from person to person.

During your consultation, Dr Gary Kode will thoroughly assess your medical history, lifestyle, and surgical goals. Patients with a BMI over 30 may need additional medical clearance, and surgery is not performed at Glenferrie Hospital if the BMI exceeds 35, in line with safety protocols.

Types of Body Liposuction

Body liposuction can be used to treat a wide variety of regions. Each patient’s body is unique, and Dr Gary Kode develops an individualised plan to target specific areas, such as:

• Abdomen and waist: Commonly treated for excess fat that may remain after childbirth, ageing, or weight changes. This area responds well to liposuction in patients with good muscle tone and firm skin tone.
• Hips and flanks (love handles): Fat in this region can affect the silhouette and clothing fit. Liposuction may help improve waistline definition.
• Outer and inner thighs: Fatty deposits in the thighs may create rubbing or imbalance between the lower and upper body. Liposuction can contour the thighs to enhance overall proportion.
• Upper arms: Some individuals experience fullness in the arms that does not change with exercise. Liposuction in this area can improve shape and allow for more clothing options.
• Under the chin and neck: Targeting fat in this area may assist with definition along the jawline and improve facial balance.
• Back or bra-line region: This area may develop folds or rolls that affect comfort and self-perception. Liposuction can reduce bulk for a smoother contour.

Dr Gary Kode uses the wet technique combined with Microaire-assisted liposuction, which helps minimise tissue trauma and allows for more even, precise fat removal across various body regions.

Surgery for Body Liposuction

Liposuction surgery is conducted in a fully accredited hospital setting under sterile conditions, using anaesthesia for patient comfort and safety. The general steps include:

1. Anaesthesia – In most cases, general anaesthesia is used, allowing patients to remain asleep and comfortable during the procedure. For smaller, localised treatments, local anaesthesia may be considered.
2. Tumescent infiltration – A fluid mixture containing saline, anaesthetic, and a vasoconstrictor is infused into the targeted area. This helps to loosen fat cells, reduce bleeding, and facilitate smoother fat removal.
3. Fat removal via cannula – A small, hollow tube called a cannula is inserted through tiny incisions. Using a Microaire power-assisted device, Dr Gary Kode performs controlled fat extraction, sculpting the treated area.
4. Incision closure and compression – Depending on the extent of liposuction, the incisions may be closed with sutures or left open for natural drainage. Compression garments are applied immediately to support healing.

Every procedure is performed directly by Dr Gary Kode himself, ensuring personal attention and quality control at every stage.

Photos / Gallery of Body Liposuction

To view examples of surgical outcomes, patients can visit the before-and-after gallery on Dr Kode’s website. These images are shared with full consent and are intended to illustrate the range of possible results.

The gallery includes patients of different body types and treatment areas. It is important to note that every person’s anatomy and healing response is different, and outcomes will vary.

During your consultation, Dr Gary Kode may also show specific case studies that are relevant to your goals and body type to help guide your expectations.

Recovery After Body Liposuction

Post-operative recovery is an important part of the surgical journey. While experiences vary, most patients can expect:

• Swelling and bruising in the treated areas for the first 2–3 weeks. This is a normal part of the healing process and gradually settles over time.
• Mild to moderate discomfort, which is usually well managed with oral pain relief and gentle movement.
• Drainage of fluid may occur in the early days, especially when incisions are left open for this purpose.
• Compression garments are worn day and night for the first month, then during the day only for the following 4–8 weeks. These help reduce swelling, support tissue healing, and aid in contouring.
• Early mobilisation is encouraged within 24 hours to reduce the risk of clots and promote circulation. However, heavy lifting, intense exercise, or stretching should be avoided for 4–6 weeks, unless otherwise advised.

Dr Gary Kode provides detailed post-operative instructions and personally follows up with his patients to monitor progress and ensure optimal healing.

Results of Body Liposuction

Results become more visible as swelling subsides. Most patients begin to see noticeable changes after 4–6 weeks, with final results usually settling around 6 to 12 months post-surgery.

Positive changes may include:

• Improved body contour in specific areas, such as a flatter abdomen, slimmer waist, or more defined jawline
• Enhanced proportions between regions, creating a more balanced appearance
• Clothing that fits better and feels more comfortable

It’s important to maintain a consistent weight to preserve surgical outcomes. Dr Gary Kode provides guidance on healthy habits to support long-term results.

Scars with Body Liposuction

The incisions used for liposuction are small — typically only a few millimetres in length — and placed strategically in natural creases or less visible areas where possible. Common locations include the groin crease, under the breast fold, or behind the elbow.

While no scar can be completely avoided, most fade over time and become less noticeable.

Scar care may involve:

• Hypafix or silicone tape for up to three months (unless irritation develops)
• Avoidance of direct sun exposure in the early weeks
• Gentle skincare routines to keep the area hydrated and supported

Dr Gary Kode advises on scar management during follow-up appointments and adapts care to suit your individual needs.

Cost of Body Liposuction

The overall cost of liposuction surgery depends on multiple factors, such as:

• Number of areas treated – Treating one area versus multiple areas will affect surgical time and complexity.
• Anaesthesia and hospital fees – Costs vary depending on the facility and whether general or local anaesthesia is used.
• Garments and aftercare – Post-operative garments and follow-up appointments are part of the overall care plan.
• Surgeon’s time and experience – Each procedure performed by Dr Gary Kode includes comprehensive planning, direct surgical care, and dedicated post-operative support.

In accordance with AHPRA guidelines, specific pricing is not listed online. A tailored quote will be provided during your consultation.

Generally, cosmetic liposuction is not eligible for Medicare or private health rebates, unless performed for medical reasons — such as correcting deformities after trauma or other medical conditions.

Risks of Body Liposuction

All surgical procedures carry risks. During your consultation, Dr Gary Kode will outline these in detail and provide information on how risks are minimised.

Common risks may include:

• Bruising, swelling, or temporary discomfort
• Asymmetry or irregular contour if healing varies across areas
• Changes in skin sensation, which are usually temporary
• Fluid accumulation (seroma) that may require drainage
• Infection or delayed healing, particularly if aftercare instructions are not followed

Complications are uncommon when performed by a qualified Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, but it is important to make an informed decision based on a clear understanding of both the benefits and limitations of the procedure.

FAQs About Body Liposuction

About the Surgeon

Dr Gary Kode is a Melbourne-based Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon (FRACS) with extensive experience in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. His approach is grounded in evidence-based techniques, individualised care, and precision surgery.

Key points about Dr Kode’s practice:

• All procedures are performed by Dr Kode himself — no assistants or surgical delegation
• Consults and operates in Melbourne, primarily at Glenferrie and Masada Hospitals
• Focuses on surgical integrity with realistic outcomes and honest patient communication
• Experience in facial, breast, and body surgery, providing comprehensive care

Patients value his calm, detail-oriented approach and his commitment to doing his best for every individual.

Considering Body Liposuction in Melbourne?

If you’re considering liposuction surgery to refine your body shape, the first step is to schedule a personal consultation with Dr Gary Kode. This will include:

• A full assessment of your goals and body areas of concern
• A detailed discussion about surgical options, benefits, and limitations
• Information about risks, aftercare, and expected outcomes
• A customised surgical plan, tailored to your anatomy and needs

Dr Gary Kode is committed to helping patients in Melbourne make well-informed decisions, with a focus on safe, professional care from start to finish.

Further Reading