Who Is the Ideal Candidate for High-Definition Liposuction? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

High-definition liposuction (HDL) enhanced muscular definition by selectively removing superficial subcutaneous fat. Despite its growing popularity and high satisfaction rates, no consensus exists regarding the ideal candidate. This systematic review evaluates demographic factors, patient selection criteria, and complication rates associated with HDL.

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted utilizing PRISMA-P guidelines. PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Web of Science were searched for studies published within the past 10 years. Seventeen studies met inclusion criteria, comprising 9570 patients. Study designs included randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and observational analyses reporting demographics, procedural details, and complications. Standardized data extraction was performed. Pooled analyses were conducted for hematoma and seroma, and univariable meta-regression assessed associations between mean age, BMI, and proportion of female patients with complication rates.

Mean age was 36.0 years and mean BMI was 25.8 kg/m2 (range: 18 to 66); 55% of patients were female. Selection criteria varied; most studies applied BMI thresholds (≤30 to 34 kg/m2) and excluded poorly controlled diabetes, heavy smoking, and thromboembolic history. The abdomen, flanks, and chest were most treated. Mean fat removal was 4268.8 mL, with an average operative time of 235 minutes. Complication rates were low; the pooled incidence of seroma was 7% and hematoma was 1%. Meta-regression showed no significant associations between complications and age, BMI, or sex. Patient satisfaction was high.

HDL is safe and effective across diverse populations; however, variability in selection criteria and reporting limits evidence-based definitions of ideal candidates. Further prospective studies with standardized reporting are needed.