"Bent Cannula" Liposuction Technique Using Only 3 Incisions in Asian Lower Limb Shaping.

[BACKGROUND] Circumferential thigh and calf liposuction has become increasingly popular in Asia. The traditional method involves knee and ankle incisions, which may leave obvious scarring. To improve postoperative satisfaction and make this method more acceptable, reducing surgical incisions is helpful. In this study, we introduced the "bent cannula" liposuction technique, which uses only 3 incisions.

[METHODS] All 3 incisions were made in the bikini area: 1 was in the pubic area, and the other 2 were in the inferior gluteal folds. During liposuction, customized long cannulas were used and bent to ensure accuracy and safety.

[RESULTS] Between January 2020 and December 2022, 40 patients who underwent this method by the same senior surgeon were included. The average age was 25.9 years (range: 18-42 y). Follow-up lasted for 12-39 months. During follow-up, no patient reported any serious complications. Both the surgeon and all patients were satisfied with the long-term outcome.

[CONCLUSIONS] The customized long cannulas and bent cannula technique help to contour the lower limb effectively and safely. Characterized by fewer incisions, our method can also result in less noticeable and more discreet scarring.