Liposuction: The Basics

Liposuction is a form of cosmetic surgery that’s mentioned quite often – but what is it and how does it work? Here’s a quick guide:

•    Liposuction is also known as suction-assisted lipectomy or liposculputure. Fat cells are permanently removed, so body shape can change.
•    It can be done on parts of the body where there tend to be fat deposits, including the hips, buttocks, stomach and thighs.
•    The breasts, knees, calves and ankles are other popular areas for this procedure.
•    Ideally you will exercise and eat a healthy diet after the surgery. Liposuction is not an obesity cure, and it cannot remove stretch marks or cellulite.
•    It is usually done under a general anaesthetic, although if a very small, concentrated area a local anaesthetic may be used, or, for lower body only procedures, an epidural anaesthetic.
•    It is only available on the NHS if used in reconstructive surgery or in treating some medical conditions.
•    The benefits can be extensive – because you look better you will feel a lot better and have greater self-confidence.

If you’re considering liposuction, you may want to speak to your GP first, as well as, of course, the specialist who will be conducting your procedure.

How is Liposuction Conducted?

Your surgeon should discuss which treatment would best suit you. Options include:

•    Wet (or tumescent) liposuction is the most common kind. A fluid solution is injected into the treatment area first, to help numb it and lessen blood loss. In “super-wet” liposuction, less liquid is used.
•    Dry liposuction is quite a rare technique, and, as the name suggests, no liquid is injected first.
•    Ultrasound and laser-assisted liposuction are other options for breaking down fat cells.
•    Water-jet assisted liposuction uses a fine, high-pressure jet to separate fat cells.

A small incision is then made, and a suction tube attached to a “vacuum machine” is inserted. For larger areas, several incisions may be needed.

You may not have realised that this very safe treatment can also be used for some medical conditions, including:

•    Lipomas – or non-cancerous fat tumours
•    Gynaecomastia – this is a condition in which men develop fatty breast tissue
•    Lipodystrophy syndrome – where fat is lost from one part of the body and gained in another. This is a side-effect of some HIV treatments.

Liposuction from the botonics Plastic Surgery Group

If you’re looking for cosmetic surgery in London specifically, make us your first port of call. We offer liposuction for men and women, highly tailored to your needs and conducted at our clinic in the city’s prestigious Harley Street.

We offer many benefits, including a very personal, honest and respectful approach to our clients from first contact and a transparent policy when it comes to liposuction prices.

While there is never a substitute for a good diet and exercise programme, this procedure can safely get rid of obstinate fat that just won’t budge when you’ve tried everything else.

Visit our website today and book a free consultation with the specialist who’ll be conducting your procedure – we don’t do hard selling!