Liposuction

What is liposuction?

Liposuction is a cosmetic fat reduction procedure that targets areas resistant to diet and exercise. By removing unwanted fat, liposuction can enhance your body’s natural contours and improve self-confidence.

It’s important to note that liposuction is not a treatment for obesity or significant weight loss, but rather a body contouring solution for adults looking to refine their shape.

Key points

Duration of the surgery

30 min - 3 hours

Anaesthesia

General or Local

Recovery period

7 days

Clinic stay

Day case

Liposuction – Body Contouring & Fat Removal Surgery

Overview of Liposuction

Liposuction is a popular cosmetic surgery designed to remove stubborn fat deposits from specific areas of the body. Whether it’s the abdomen, thighs, hips, or arms, liposuction can help sculpt and contour your figure when diet and exercise alone aren’t enough.

Also called lipoplasty or simply “lipo,” this procedure permanently removes fat cells, helping you achieve a smoother, more defined body shape.

Areas Suitable for Liposuction

Liposuction can be performed on most areas of the body where excess fat accumulates, including:

• Abdomen, stomach, and waist.

• Hips and “love handles”.

• Thighs (inner and outer).

• Upper arms.

• Back and chest.

• Neck.

• Inner knees, calves.

Your surgeon will assess your anatomy to determine the most effective areas for treatment.

Who is a Candidate for Liposuction?

Ideal candidates for liposuction typically include:

• Adults with average or slightly above-average weight.

• Individuals with firm, elastic skin.

• Adults in good overall health.

• People with localized fat pockets that don’t respond to diet and exercise.

• Those with realistic expectations about outcomes.

Liposuction is not recommended for people who are underweight, have poor skin quality, or have significant health issues that could interfere with healing.

Why Choose Liposuction?

You might consider liposuction if you:

• Have tried dieting and exercising without results in certain areas.

• Want to smooth out stubborn fatty bulges.

• Desire permanent fat removal in targeted areas.

• Can commit to 4 weeks of recovery after surgery.

Liposuction offers a safe, effective, and long-lasting method for body contouring.

Types of Liposuction Procedures

There are several liposuction techniques available to suit different goals:

• Tumescent Liposuction – Uses a saline solution with local anesthetic to reduce blood loss and remove fat safely.

• VASER Liposuction – A type of Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction that uses precision ultrasound for sculpting larger or more fibrous areas.

• Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL) – Uses a vibrating cannula to break up fat for easier removal.

• And others, but not that popular methods

Your surgeon will recommend the most suitable method based on your body and desired outcome.

Preparing for Liposuction Surgery

Before your procedure, your surgeon will guide you through preoperative instructions, including:

• Stopping smoking.

• Adjusting medications or supplements.

• Following dietary or alcohol restrictions.

• Completing any necessary medical tests.

A thorough consultation ensures safety and realistic expectations.

What Happens During Liposuction Surgery?

Liposuction is performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the area treated. Small incisions about 0,5cm are made, and a cannula is inserted to remove fat deposits.

Procedures usually are day cases. Your surgeon may combine liposuction with other cosmetic procedures, such as a tummy tuck or breast surgery, if appropriate, then that might be an overnight stay.

Recovery After Liposuction

Post-surgery, you may experience:

• Bruising, swelling, or soreness.

• Temporary fluid retention.

• Mild discomfort, often managed with pain medication.

• Loss of sensitivity, numbness of the area treated.

Most patients can return to work within a few days and resume full physical activity in 2-4 weeks. Wearing compression garments helps reduce swelling and improve skin retraction.

Final results are typically visible after 3–6 months after surgery.

Benefits of Liposuction

• Removes stubborn fat deposits permanently.

• Enhances body contour and symmetry.

• Minimal visible scarring.

• Can boost self-confidence and body image.

Risks and Considerations

Liposuction is generally safe when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. Potential risks include:

• Infection or bleeding.

• Swelling or bruising.

• Scarring.

• Contour irregularities.

• Changes in skin sensation.

• Fluid pockets known as seromas.

A detailed consultation ensures you understand the procedure and potential outcomes.

Liposuction vs Tummy Tuck

• Liposuction: Removes fat from specific areas; ideal for body contouring.

• Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): Removes excess skin and tightens abdominal muscles; also removes some fat.

Many patients choose a combined approach for optimal results.

Liposuction FAQs by Plastic Surgeon Žygimantas Mačys

01 | Is liposuction permanent?

Yes. The fat cells removed during liposuction are permanently gone. But still you must maintain a stable weight to preserve your results.

02 | Can liposuction remove cellulite?

No. Cellulite is caused by fibrous tissue bands under the skin. Liposuction targets fat, not cellulite.

03 | Will I need a second procedure?

Most patients achieve the desired results with one procedure, though some may choose additional contouring later.

04 | How much weight can I lose?

Liposuction is for body shaping, not weight loss. Expect moderate fat reduction in treated areas, not full-body weight loss.

05 | Is liposuction painful?

The procedure is done under local or general anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during surgery. Afterward, mild soreness, swelling, or bruising is common and manageable with medication.

06 | Will I have scars after liposuction?

Scars are minimal, as only small incisions are made. Proper post-operative care of the scars will help to reduce their visibility.

07 | How much does liposuction cost in UK?

The cost of liposuction in the UK depends on the area treated and the technique used. Small areas like the chin or arms typically cost £2,000–£4,000, while larger areas such as the abdomen, flanks, thighs or combination of areas can range from £3,500–£8,000. Prices may also vary based on the surgeon’s experience, clinic location, and any additional procedures or aftercare included. Many clinics offer financing options to help spread the cost.

05 | What is the recovery time for liposuction?

Most patients return to work within a week. Full physical activity, including exercise, is usually possible within 3-6 weeks. Swelling and fluid retention may take up to 3–5 months to fully resolve.

Considering liposuction in Manchester, UK?

Book your free consultation with me at Transform Clinic.