The Physics of Liposuction: From Poiseuille to Starling

Liposuction has become a field all to itself. There are dedicated fellowships in body contouring, and large research groups around the world are investigating new techniques and methods. The science of lipoplasty has grown exponentially in the last several decades. Similarly, with the advent of new techniques, more and more patients are requesting liposuction procedures. It has become the most sought after cosmetic surgery procedure in the United States. Furthermore, there is no indication that this increased demand will stop in the near future. In order to accommodate this increased demand, the liposculptor must become efficient with the liposuction techniques. Knowledge of the physics behind effective liposuction has several advantages. Knowing how the Starling forces act on the adipose tissue can help the liposculptor manipulate these forces and can improve efficiency. Similarly, knowing the effect of the Law of Poiseuille can help the liposculptor choose the proper cannula dimensions for the desired area. Additionally, a better understanding of the basic science behind liposuction can lead to further research contributions related to this technique.