Liposuction

Surgical Removal of Excess Fatty Tissue

Overview

Liposuction is a surgical procedure which removes excess fat tissue from various regions around the body. The surgery is designed to correct and improve bodily contours, in regions particularly resistant to change from diet and exercise alone. Common areas targeted in liposuction include the abdominal wall (tummy), hips, buttocks, thighs, neck and male breasts. Liposuction can be combined with other types of surgery, such as breast augmentation, where the fat tissue is moved from the tummy to the breast.

The surgery itself may be performed under general anaesthetic or local anaesthetic, depending on the region being targeted. The procedure involves the insertion of a fine, hollow tube into the targeted region of tissue, which is then used to break up and remove large clumps of fatty tissue. The tube is then used to create a more desirable body contour. The small incisions made to allow the passage of this small tube are then sewn up, to leave very small scars on the skin. The procedure may take between 1-3 hours and may be performed as a day case. If large amounts of fat tissue are removed, it may be recommended that you stay in hospital overnight for observation.

Following the surgery, you will be asked to wear tight bandages around the targeted area to reduce swelling and promote a good body contour. This should be worn for at least two weeks, day and night, following the procedure, and for a further 4-6 weeks during either the day or night.

As with any operation, there are risks to the surgery. It is common to experience some pain following the procedure, and this can be considerable if significant amounts of tissue are removed. Other common complications include stiffness, bruising, numbness and a lumpy appearance to the skin as the tissue settles. General risks include bleeding, infection and formation of blood clots after surgery.

Mr Anton Fries, Consultant in reconstructive plastic surgery, would be delighted to discuss options for liposuction surgery with you during a private consultation.