Audience: Adults 18+. Purpose: General education only — this article does not constitute medical advice.
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Liposuction procedure page.
Liposuction, sometimes referred to as “lipo” or “lipoplasty”, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to remove unwanted fat deposits from specific areas of the body. It aims to reshape and contour areas where fat has been resistant to diet and exercise, helping to alter overall body proportions and silhouette.
While liposuction can refine body contours, it is not a treatment for obesity or a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.
Understanding the liposuction procedure
Liposuction is typically carried out under general anaesthetic, though smaller procedures may sometimes be performed under local anaesthetic with sedation. The operation involves inserting a thin, hollow tube called a cannula through small incisions in the skin. The surgeon then uses controlled suction to remove fat cells from the targeted areas.
There are several recognised liposuction techniques, including:
- Tumescent liposuction: The most common method. A sterile fluid mixture containing saline, anaesthetic, and adrenaline is injected into the treatment area to help loosen fat, minimise bleeding, and reduce discomfort.
- Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL): Uses ultrasonic energy to liquefy fat before removal, often used for denser areas such as the upper abdomen or male chest.
- Power-assisted liposuction (PAL): Utilises a vibrating cannula to help break up fat more easily, allowing for more precise fat removal.
- Laser-assisted liposuction (LAL): Involves laser energy to melt fat, which may also aid in mild skin tightening after the procedure.
The duration of surgery depends on the size and number of areas treated but typically ranges from one to several hours.
Common treatment areas
- Abdomen and flanks (“love handles”)
- Thighs and hips
- Upper arms
- Buttocks
- Back
- Chest (particularly in men with gynaecomastia)
- Chin, neck, or jawline
Your surgeon will recommend which areas can be safely and effectively treated based on your anatomy and goals.
Who may consider liposuction?
Liposuction is a surgical option that may be discussed with a qualified clinician if an individual has good general health, firm skin elasticity, and realistic expectations about outcomes. It may be suitable for those who:
- Have localised fat deposits that persist despite exercise or dietary changes
- Are seeking body contouring rather than significant weight reduction
- Are at or near a stable, healthy weight
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for liposuction; eligibility should be confirmed by a qualified healthcare professional following a detailed consultation and assessment. It is important to note that liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure and cannot treat cellulite, stretch marks, or loose skin.
Consultation and assessment
Before proceeding, you should have a detailed consultation with a GMC-registered consultant plastic surgeon or an appropriately qualified clinician. During this appointment, the professional will discuss:
- Your medical history and current health status
- Areas of concern and desired outcomes
- The potential risks, benefits, and limitations of the procedure
Photographs may be taken for planning and assessment purposes. You should have the opportunity to ask questions, receive clear written information, and take time to consider your options before making a decision.
An initial consultation does not oblige you to proceed with surgery.
What is the recovery time for liposuction?
Recovery time following liposuction varies according to the size and number of areas treated. Most people experience swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort for several days to weeks after the operation.
What is the aftercare for liposuction?
Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare advice, which may include:
- Wearing a compression garment to support healing and reduce swelling
- Avoiding strenuous activity for a set period
- Keeping incisions clean and dry
- Attending follow-up appointments to monitor recovery
It may take several weeks to months for the final results to become apparent, as swelling gradually subsides and tissues settle.
What are the potential risks and complications?
As with all surgical procedures, liposuction carries potential risks. These may include:
- Infection
- Bleeding or haematoma
- Fluid accumulation (seroma)
- Irregular contours or asymmetry
- Changes in skin sensation
- Scarring
- Anaesthetic-related complications
Your surgeon will explain these risks and discuss any factors specific to your medical history. Following all pre- and post-operative instructions carefully can help reduce the likelihood of complications.
Results and expectations
When performed by a qualified surgeon, liposuction can achieve long-lasting contour improvements. However, maintaining a stable weight, balanced diet, and regular exercise routine is essential to preserve results.
While removed fat cells do not return, remaining fat cells can enlarge with weight gain. Therefore, liposuction should be viewed as a contouring procedure, not a weight management solution.
Scars are generally small and discreetly positioned, often fading over time. No outcomes are guaranteed and individual results will vary.
Regulation and safety
In the UK, cosmetic surgery should only be performed by GMC-registered practitioners with appropriate surgical training. The facility must be regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in England, or the equivalent regulatory body in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland.
Patients are encouraged to verify their surgeon’s credentials and confirm that the clinic adheres to national safety and hygiene standards. Reputable professional bodies such as the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) and the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) offer directories of recognised specialists.
Considering non-surgical alternatives
Before deciding on surgery, you may wish to explore less invasive alternatives. Although they do not produce the same results as liposuction, options such as cryolipolysis (fat freezing), radiofrequency fat reduction, or high-intensity ultrasound can sometimes offer modest contour improvements without surgery or downtime.
Making an informed decision
Undergoing liposuction is a personal choice that should be made with full understanding of the procedure, potential outcomes, and limitations. Always seek a professional consultation with a registered, experienced clinician and avoid pressure to make a quick decision.
Ensuring the surgery is performed safely, by a qualified surgeon in a regulated environment, is the most important factor in achieving a satisfactory outcome.
Disclaimer
This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Anyone considering liposuction should seek an independent consultation with a qualified, GMC-registered healthcare professional.
Information reflects guidance from the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS), the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS), the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), and the General Medical Council (GMC).
Reviewed by a GMC-registered clinician.