The information contained gives a general idea about the operation
and does not replace a consultation.
The consultation is personal and specific to the individual concerned.
All consultations involve taking a thorough medical history and
a physical examination of the relevant area involved.
How does liposuction help?
- Liposuction gets rid of excess fat.
- It helps to re-shape the body.
- It is particularly useful on the tummy, flanks, buttocks, thighs and knees.
- It leaves minimal scarring for a procedure that covers a large area.
- Liposuction is often used in conjunction with other procedures such as
abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)and face lift.
Liposuction requires the skin to "shrink back" after the fat has been removed. It therefore cannot be used successfully
where there is excess skin already present such as where there are skin folds. This would require the skin to be removed to
tighten the area.
Tell me about the operation?
- Operation takes approximately 1 hour under general anaesthetic depending on what is to be done.
- Local anaesthetic is injected into the areas at the time of operation for pain relief afterwards.
- Discharge home usually the same or occasionally the following day.
- Several small "stab" incisions that are used to perform the operation are closed with a dissolving stitch.
- 2 weeks to recover but will be mobile during this period.
- Tight fitting garments applied to treated areas for up to 4 weeks to help the skin reattach.
What are the possible complications?
- Scars - small and placed in well-hidden areas if possible.
- Infection - this can happen after the operation but is rare and may require antibiotics.
- Bleeding - occasionally the wounds can ooze slightly.
- Bruising and swelling - this will settle down; swelling usually after several days and bruising up to 2 weeks.
Combining the procedure with a breast enhancement or
breast reduction
therefore includes those complications.
These are the commonest complications. Other more rare ones would also be discussed at the consultation.
When can I get back to work?
- This depends on the size of the area treated.
- Large areas - up to 2 weeks is usually recommended to recover.
- Smaller areas - several days rest is recommended.
- You are encouraged to be mobile during this time period.
- Return to lighter duties initially to prevent soreness.
- It will take several months for the swelling to fully settle and the final results to be realised.
