Is Liposuction For You?

Mar 26, 2019 | Your Surgery

Do you, like many, find that no matter how hard you try with closely followed diets and regular visits to the gym, those stubborn, hard to move bulges just will not… budge!

Well, don’t worry, you are not alone, and help is available to achieve the body shape you want and to feel completely body confident.

If you have good general health and fitness and are looking to remove small areas of stubborn fat pockets that are hard to lose through diet and exercise, then Liposuction surgery could be the right choice for you.
Liposuction is a widely used surgical procedure that permanently removes excess fat cells from the body and is one of the most popular cosmetic surgery choices for fat removal.

Liposuction surgery breaks down and removes excess fat from common problem areas such as, the abdomen, arms, back, buttocks, hips, thighs and let’s not forget the flanks or “love handles”. By targeting these problem areas, your surgeon can focus on refining your body contour by removing unwanted excess fat cells to enhance your body’s natural shape and create a balanced and well-proportioned look.

The procedure is best suited to you if your skin has good elasticity and you are already at or near your ideal weight but finding it hard to remove unwanted fat from the problem areas we have talked about earlier. Liposuction is not a “quick fix” solution to weight loss and the surgery alone will not reduce how much you weigh; the average weight loss following liposuction surgery is between 2 to 3 pounds. The focus is to treat specific areas that are not responding well to diet and exercise, using fat cell removal to permanently sculpt your body creating a slimmer, firmer body shape with smoother contours.

What is involved in the procedure?

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery procedure carried out under general anaesthetic. Although widely considered safe, as with all surgery there are possible risks, but these can be kept to a minimum by taking a few simple measures.
Most important is that your procedure is carried out by a qualified and experienced surgeon, only chose a surgeon who is registered on the General Medical Council (GMC). Being at your best weight and physical shape prior to the surgery will benefit your body during surgery and help a fast and successful recovery. A study by The Royal College of Anaesthetists recommends that tobacco smokers stop smoking at least six weeks before an operation to reduce any postoperative complications. Looking after yourself and ensuring that you are at your best health possible will lower any risk of possible surgery complications and increase the benefits of a successful recovery.

What happens after surgery?

Initially after surgery, you may notice some discomfort and it is common to experience some swelling and bruising, but this will steadily disappear over a period of around one month. As the swelling and inflammation eases some lumpiness and deep bruising may still be visible; in some cases, it may take six to twelve months for the swelling to completely settle and the full effect of the liposuction can be seen.

Your surgeon may fit a compression bandage; this will help maintain pressure to the area, stop any bleeding, supress swelling and helps keep the new body contours created during surgery. The compression bandage should be worn day and night for two weeks then during the day only for another four to six weeks. As a precaution from possible infection you might be prescribed Antibiotics and you will need to keep your wounds clean and protected as instructed by your surgeon.

How long will it take for me to recover?

Postoperative aftercare is an important part of your recovery process and it is important that you treat your body well in this respite period. Recovery is usually quick and although not pain-free, the pain you experience should be manageable with over-the-counter pain-relief medications. Depending on the extent of your surgery, generally you should be able to return to work within a few days and within a couple of weeks you will be back up to your normal pace; more extensive surgery may take a slightly longer recovery time. For all patients, it is important to avoid any overly strenuous activity for 10-12 weeks and that you start all activity post-surgery gently.

Complications arising from Liposuction surgery are highly unlikely but it’s important that you are aware of the risks and discuss them further at your consultation if you have any concerns.

Liposuction removes the fat cells from the targeted area of the body permanently and by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, through exercise and good diet, you will see long-lasting results and it will be easy to maintain your post-surgery body shape.

One of the benefits of Liposuction surgery is that it can kick-start a regular fitness regime and healthy eating style as you feel body confident and enjoy better mobility. A good nutritional diet, giving your body rest and recovery time will help your body to heal well and make a great recovery.

What aftercare is available?

Your aftercare nurse and patient care team will be available throughout your consultation and cosmetic surgery if you have any questions, concerns or need help and advice.