The purpose of liposuction (also known as lipoplasty and liposculpture) is to remove fat and reduce the number of fat cells in order to reshape areas of the body that are resistant to a healthy diet and exercise

What does the procedure involve?

Most body parts are able to be suctioned, though the most popular areas of the body where women have treatment include the abdomen, thighs, hips, buttocks and knees. During surgery the surgeon will make tiny incisions in the skin and then use a hollow metal tube called a cannula to break up the fat cells beneath the skin. The fat is then sucked out with a syringe or a vacuum pump. Ultrasound waves or an injection of fluid may be used as an alternative method, to break up the fat before suctioning it out.

What are the benefits and what are the risks?

Benefits

Results are permanent providing that your weight remains stable. If you do gain weight after treatment you are most likely to put it on in the places where surgery has not been performed, as there are a higher number of fat cells. One thing to note however, is that Liposuction will not reduce dimpling or cellulite. In addition, if the skin is flabby, for example after significant weight loss or pregnancy, liposuction may make it look worse.

Risks

The risks from surgery tend to be the result of the level of competency of the surgeon and anesthetist, as rare but fatal complications may arise including pulmonary oedema (collection of fluid in the lungs) or lidocaine toxicity. Blood clots may also occur if a piece of fat travels into the blood stream, though the surgeon will use anti-embolism boots during the procedure to prevent this. Other risks from this type of surgery include numbness, nerve damage and scarring. Patients who have ultrasound-assisted liposuction also risk internal and external burning. Unevenness may occur in the area treated, usually due to poor surgical technique, though touch-ups may be performed six months after the original surgery to try to rectify this. It is extremely important therefore that when considering surgery that you talk to and use a surgeon who is highly qualified and experienced.

Is it the right procedure for me?

Liposuction is often used by women as a last resort after diet and exercise has been unsuccessful in altering the body shape or reducing fat in areas that they are unhappy with. Liposuction should not be used as an alternative to diet and exercise. When considering liposuction you should consider all of the facts, including the potential risks, and talk to a qualified surgeon who will be able to advise you whether it is the 'right' procedure for you.

How long does the procedure take?

The procedure can be performed under local or general anesthetic and can take up to two hours depending on the amount of fat removed or the type of technique chosen.

What happens after surgery?

Immediately after surgery you can expect to feel swelling, bruising and pain, though this will subside in a few days and should go down completely over about three weeks. You may even experience puffiness in areas where surgery was not performed like the face feet and hands. You will be expected to wear a special elastic compression garment for about a week after the procedure. Some people experience itching, which can be relieved using a rich moisturiser. You may need to take a few days off work and avoid exercise for a couple of weeks.

How much is it likely to cost?

Prices vary depending on how much suction is performed, but prices generally vary between £4,000 and £8,000