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Liposuction and liposculpture
If you are experiencing problems with localised fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise then liposuction could provide the solution. Liposuction is a technique used to remove unwanted fat deposits.
It was developed in the 1970's and is best suited to removing localised deposits of fat from the hips, tummy, waist or thighs. It can also be used in combination with a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) to remove fat from the waistline. It is a technique for improving body shape rather than helping with weight loss. More recent developments, known as liposculpture, have allowed our surgeons to refine their skills and ability to reshape the contour of the body. The best results occur in patients who are not overweight, but who have localised deposits of fat and the elasticity of the skin as the skin will need to adapt to a new contour when the underlying fat is removed.
For overweight patients a Gastric Balloon may first be considered to help bring weight down in preparation for liposuction. This will be carefully assessed at your consultation with one of our surgeons.
Frequently asked questions
How is the fat removed?
The surgeon inserts a ‘Cannula’ (small tube-like syringe) through small puncture incisions in the skin. Saline solution and local anaesthetic are normally introduced to help break down fat cells. These cells are then drawn out through the tube leaving a much smoother surface.
Which areas can benefit from liposuction?
It is beneficial in treating such areas as the stomach and ‘love handles’ (fat that has accumulated on the sides of the waist) and in conjunction with a Tummy Tuck. It is also used on the inner and outer thighs, knees, calves, ankles, buttocks, arms, shoulder blades and other areas of isolated fat deposits. Double chins and fatty necks will also benefit.
Will I need to take time off work?
Yes, normally 7 -14 days is required off work and the surgeon may advise you to take more time off. Surgery is generally performed under general anaesthesia for large areas but local anaesthesia is also considered advised by your surgeon. The procedure usually takes 1-3 hours and normally requires an overnight stay in hospital.
Will I feel pain afterwards?
There will be pain and discomfort for several days after the operation and pain killers and anti inflammatory medication will be prescribed. The patients usually experience an aching sensation for a week or two and occasional ‘twinge’ for some months. Pain after surgery is variable from patient to patient and the full results may be obscured by swelling and bruising for several months which will be explained by your surgeon. A specially designed compression garment will be fitted after the operation and this should be worn for 2-6 weeks as determined by surgeon and area being treated.
Will I have any scars?
Small incision sites of about a quarter of an inch will be left placed wherever possible in a body fold or crease. In many cases these sites do not even require a suture due to small size. As with most scars, given time they will generally fade and become virtually undetectable.
