Liposuction in London

Who it may help

Liposuction may be considered for areas of fat that do not respond to diet and exercise, such as the abdomen, waist and flanks, back, thighs, knees, arms, chin or chest. It works best when your weight is stable and your skin has good elasticity.

Liposuction is not a weight-loss treatment, and it does not tighten loose skin. If you have significant loose skin, an abdominoplasty, arm or thigh lift, or body lift may be more suitable.

Techniques

• Conventional (tumescent) liposuction: fluid is injected to reduce bleeding and discomfort, then fat is removed through small incisions with a fine cannula.

• Ultrasound-assisted liposuction: ultrasound energy loosens fat before it is removed. This can help in fibrous areas such as the back or male chest.

• Radiofrequency-assisted liposuction: radiofrequency energy heats the tissues, which may help to tighten the skin slightly as well as remove fat.

• 360-degree liposuction: treats the abdomen, waist, flanks and back together to shape the whole midsection.

• High-definition liposuction and abdominal etching: sculpts around the natural muscle contours to give more definition. This is often requested by men and suits people who are already lean.

What surgery involves

Liposuction usually takes 1–3 hours, depending on the number and size of areas treated. It is usually carried out under general anaesthetic. In selected cases it can be done under tumescent local anaesthetic with sedation.

Smaller, localised areas are usually treated as a day case. More extensive liposuction involves an overnight stay in hospital.

Your consultation

At your consultation Mr Oezdogan will:

• discuss what you would like to change and why

• examine you and explain which options are suitable, including non-surgical alternatives or not having surgery

• explain the benefits, risks, recovery and the possibility of further surgery in the future

• give you written information to take away

You will be asked about your weight history, any weight-loss treatment, smoking and general health.

If you take weight-loss medication, weekly injections usually need to be paused 2–4 weeks before surgery and daily tablets 1–2 days before, to reduce anaesthetic risk.

Private consultations and surgery are offered to adults aged 18 and over. You will be given time to reflect before deciding, and a second consultation is offered before surgery is booked.

Risks and recovery

These are discussed in detail at your consultation and in writing. They include:

• bruising and swelling, which can be extensive

• numbness or altered sensation in the treated areas

• contour irregularities, dimpling or asymmetry

• a collection of fluid (seroma), infection or skin discolouration

• loose skin if skin elasticity is poor

• blood clots in the legs or lungs. This is a risk with any operation under general anaesthetic, and the risk is higher after liposuction.

• the possible need for further treatment

A compression garment is worn for about six weeks. Recovery depends on the areas treated. Most people return to desk work after 2–4 weeks, and larger areas can take longer. Bruising may be less with energy-assisted techniques, but this varies.

Surgery aims to improve body contour, but individual results vary and no particular outcome can be guaranteed.

Where surgery takes place

Consultations and body contouring surgery take place at Highgate Hospital (Nuffield Health) and The London Welbeck Hospital. Day-case procedures take place at Chase Lodge Hospital, Mill Hill.

Frequently asked questions

Will the fat come back?

Fat cells that are removed do not grow back, but the remaining fat cells can enlarge if you gain weight.

How do I arrange a consultation?

Send an enquiry through the Contact page.

Can liposuction be combined with other procedures?

Yes. It is often combined with abdominoplasty, breast surgery or fat transfer.

Do you treat patients under 18?

Private consultations and surgery are offered to adults aged 18 and over.

When will I see the result?

Swelling settles over several weeks. The final contour is usually seen after 3–6 months, and sometimes up to a year.

Is ultrasound or radiofrequency better?

Each suits different areas and skin types. The technique is chosen with you at your consultation.

Will liposuction tighten loose skin?

Liposuction removes fat but does not remove loose skin. Radiofrequency-assisted techniques may help tighten skin slightly. Significant loose skin needs a skin-removal procedure.

To discuss liposuction, book a consultation with Mr Oezdogan.

Discuss your options