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Liposuction

There are several types of surgical and non surgical treatments available for fat reduction and body sculpting. We pride ourselves at London Medical & Aesthetic Clinic in offering our patients all options as regards to fat reduction & skin tightening techniques, traditional liposuction, laser liposuction and Laser Lipolysis with body sculpting.

Liposuction is the permanent removal of unwanted fat from the body by suction and is usually performed as cosmetic surgery. With a little help from London Medical & Aesthetic Clinic, liposuction - or fat removal - could turn from a dream into reality.

If you are of a normal body weight, but find you have stubborn areas of fat, that diet and exercise can no longer get rid of, liposuction can benefit you. Your surgeon will advise if this surgery is appropriate for you. The final decision will be made between you and your Cosmetic Surgeon.

The ideal liposuction candidate is at, or slightly below, their target weight, but with discreet resistant deposits of fat that so far have not responded to an appropriate diet and targeted exercise regime. Liposuction must not be thought of as an operation to lose weight, as the weight of the aspirated fat is very small in relation to total body weight. However, by targeting specific well-defined deposits of fat, clothes will fit better, and the figure is more in proportion which may give the appearance of significant weight loss.

Always tell your surgeon if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant in the future. Pregnancy may affect the long-term results of surgery.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Benefits

  • Liposuction permanently removes the areas of fat, giving you a balanced, more in proportion body shape. Liposuction is not designed to help you lose weight and it does not get rid of cellulite.
  • Increased self confidence
  • Increased self esteem
  • Motivation to pursue a healthier lifestyle
  • Ability to have wider choice of clothes
  • Feel more in proportion

Possible complications

  • Bleeding after surgery
  • Swelling, bruising and tenderness are common, but you will be prescribed painkillers for a few days following your operation
  • Infection in a surgical wound. Minor infections are common. Any serious infection usually needs treating with antibiotics or further surgery
  • Unsightly scarring of the skin, but this will fade over time
  • Numbness in the area, which should fade six to eight weeks after the operation
  • It is difficult to predict exactly how your body shape will appear after surgery. The results are often subtle, rather than hugely different

This is not a definitive list and symptoms will vary with each patient.

Please ask your surgeon for more information.

Liposuction: A-Z

The surgical option, from late 19th century

The surgical technique to remove fat has been performed for many years - the most common example being the tummy tuck - and t works in a very simple way.

You cut the skin, remove the fat and then re-drape the skin.

There are some advantages: you can remove a lot of fat, it is good for the surgeon because they can see what they are doing and you can achieve skin tightening at the same time by removing any loose skin.

The downsides though often outweiign the advantages: it is performed under genera anaesthetic, entails a lengthy period of downtime and you are left with a very obvious scar.

Traditional liposuction, early 1980s

Traditional liposuction was introduced in the early 1980s and became the standard technique for the next twenty years,

It works by making a small incision in the skin and sucking out the fat with the liposuction device, but the problem lies in the fact that we have two different types of fat: deep, loose fat and superficial fat.

Liposuction tackles the deep fat but cant remove the superficial fat because it is very vascular, If you attempt to remove it with liposuction you risk too much bleeding and damage to the skin.

It was obvious; we needed to find a solution to the superficial fat.

Other alternatives, the 1990s

All research at the time was dedicated to finding ways to tackle the superficial fat. The first approach was applying heat to the surface of the skin in an attempt to emulsify the superficial fat underneath - not through an incision - and lots of different forms of energy were experimented with, including laser, radiofrequency and ultrasound.

These techniques were often combined with traditional liposuction. but they didn't have the desired result because the more energy you apply through the dermis, the more you risk damaging or burning the skin before you even have an impact on the fat underneath.

Smartlipo 2000

Finally, we had a breakthrough; Smartlipo works by making a tiny incision, under local anaesthetic, and then emulsifying the fat by rupturing the membrane of the fat cell using the light, not the heat, of the laser. The contents of the fat cell leak out and the cell itself no longer has a function so is removed by the body.
The first machine had six watt energy and was fantastic in small areas such as under the chin, and for small amounts of tummy or thigh fat but I had many patients wanting much larger areas dealt with. The machine wasn't producing the results wanted and the length of the procedures meant discomfort for the patients.

Smartlipo MPX, 2008

The company was introducing more and more powerful machines which were producing better results and more comfortable patient experiences, then their sister company in the US, Cynosure, developed Smartlipo MPX.

MPX stands for multiple lasers and the machine employs two lasers. One targets fat membrane and the other targets blood vessels.

The current Smartlipo MPX is also so much more powerful than the original machine from six watts to 46 watts and. that increase in power means you go through tissue easier and tackle larger areas in less time, It also means increased skin tightening which is crucial when you're tackling larger areas of fat.

Other alternatives:

Bodytite. Introduced into the UK last year, this uses radiofrequency and, at 75 watts, is very powerful. It is suitable for large areas but doesn't produce the same skin tightening as MPX, nor does it have the flexibility when dealing with rounded areas such as the inner thigh. It doesn't have the same range of safety features as MPX, which is invaluable even for an experienced surgeon.

Vaser. Reliant on ultrasound, this is good for small areas but doesn't give the skin. tightening of Smartlipo. It works by vibrating the fat cells and damaging them but it can also damage the tissue around it causing pain and bruising. It can also cause irregularities. It has its place but has pros and cons as all systems do.

Other lasers. Targeting the fat cells not the membrane, they can produce unwanted dead tissue under the skin.

Alternatives

Liposuction should only be carried out after you've discussed the suitability of the procedure thoroughly with your surgeon, and where exercise and diet have failed to improve your body shape.

  • Smart lipo
  • Tummy Tuck with skin tightening

Who will benefit from liposuction fat removal?

Liposuction is not a procedure suitable for losing weight the 'quick and easy way' – there's no such thing. Instead liposuction is a highly effective method of removing stubborn pockets of fat that cannot be toned up via exercise and a healthy diet. Liposuction will change shape, not weight.

Liposuction is most suitable for women and men who are of relatively normal weight, but have isolated pockets of fat that cause certain areas of their body to appear out of proportion.

While you can have Liposuction at almost any age, you will obtain the best results if your skin still has enough elasticity to achieve a smooth contour following fat removal. When skin is not elastic, as in some older patients, it may not re-drape well and a skin tightening procedure may be necessary.

It's important to understand that Liposuction fat removal is not a substitute for overall weight loss, nor is it an effective treatment for cellulite.

What does liposuction involve?

There are two different types of lipoplasty, though the procedure overall is commonly referred to as liposuction. Liposuction surgery actually refers to a procedure using a small tube inserted into the affected area whereby the fat is broken up and then sucked out. Liposculpture refers to a technique that uses a syringe to remove fat. The incision required is smaller, and is therefore less invasive.

Liposuction is usually performed using a general anaesthetic. You may be treated as a day case patient or be required to stay in the hospital for one night. This will depend on the technique chosen by your surgeon and the amount of fat to be removed.

What should I know about liposuction?

We understand that this is an important decision in your life so, before you decide to go ahead with liposuction fat removal, we will offer you a thorough one-to-one medical consultation with a surgeon who specialises in fat removal procedures. During your consultation, you will be asked about the results you would like to achieve from Liposuction. This will help your surgeon to understand your expectations and determine whether they can realistically be achieved.

Due to individual physical factors, not everyone will achieve the same results. Your surgeon will take into consideration your unique characteristics in determining the most effective treatment. Following an assessment of the elasticity of your skin, he will be able to estimate the amount of fat to be removed for the best results.

How is fat removal performed?

Liposuction can be performed on several areas of the body at the same time, and can be used in conjunction with other cosmetic surgery procedures.

  • Fat is removed by first inserting a small, hollow tube (called a Cannula) through one or more tiny incisions. Incisions are usually less than one-quarter inch in length and are placed as inconspicuously as possible.
  • The cannula is connected to a vacuum pressure unit (Liposuction) or syringe (Liposculpture).
  • Guided by the surgeon, unwanted fat is sucked away.

How long will liposuction take?

Liposuction requires general anaesthetic, so an overnight stay is required in the comfortable surroundings of your local clinic. Liposculpture normally (but not always) requires just local anaesthetic, so you can normally go home the same day. Your surgeon can discuss these requirements with you at your consultation.

Are there any risks with liposuction?

As with all operations, there are some risks associated with liposuction. Fortunately, significant complications from Liposuction are infrequent. Every year many people undergo successful Liposuction, experience no problems and are delighted with the results. Anyone considering surgery, however, should be aware of both the benefits and the risks. Your surgeon will discuss these in detail with you during your consultation.

What happens after liposuction surgery?

After your fat removal procedure you will need to wear a support garment for between four and six weeks.

It is normal to experience soreness in the operative area after surgery for 2-3 weeks.
Some swelling and bruising is to be expected. Swelling usually begins to subside a week or so following surgery, while bruising can last three weeks or longer. There may also be numbness in certain areas and it may take several weeks before feeling returns.

Aside from normal, post-surgery discomfort, you should not experience side effects from liposuction. If anything abnormal is happening, you are encouraged to get in touch with the clinic as soon as possible so we can see if there is any problem is and, if so, put it right straight away.

can I resume my normal activities?

Liposuction is a very straightforward procedure. You may be able to return to work in just a few days. We would recommend not undergoing any strenuous activity for 3-4 weeks after your surgery.

Many patients are able to resume most of their normal activities within one or two weeks and begin some form of exercise soon after. Often you will also be prescribed support bandages for a few days to aid recovery and promote shrinkage of the tissue.

The timing of your recovery depends largely on the extent of your treatment.

When will I see the results from liposuction?

Liposuction will reduce those areas of fatty deposits that previously created unflattering bulges and perhaps made it difficult for you to feel comfortable in your clothing. The healing process is gradual, so you should expect to wait a while before fully enjoying the results of your procedure.

As long as you maintain your post-operative weight, the results of Liposuction will be permanent. Even if you gain a few extra pounds, you may find that the weight is distributed more evenly instead of accumulating in the areas that were problematic for you in the past.

What aftercare can I expect after liposuction?

At London Medical & Aesthetic Clinic, we take a special pride in our excellent levels of post-operative support and aftercare. To monitor your progress, we will invite you back to the clinic at prescribed intervals for follow-up examinations with your surgeon. You can expect a slimmer; more toned facial or bodily area that you can feel more confident about.

These lifestyle changes can help make the operation a success:

  • Giving up smoking
  • Eating healthily. If overweight, you have a greater chance of developing complications
  • Exercising regularly. Your GP can recommend exercises

Can I combine liposuction with other treatments?

Many people who undergo liposuction or liposculpture like to combine it with other complimentary procedures. If you are interested in body sculpting procedures, you might like to explore tummy tuck surgery, buttock implants, calf implants, arm or thigh lift surgery. If you would like to lose weight, rather than body sculpt, explore our obesity surgery. If you are considering liposuction because of an impending wedding, you may be interested in our pre-wedding package, which comprises liposuction, Botox and breast enlargement.

How do I arrange to have liposuction?

The first step towards undergoing liposuction is to book a consultation with our surgeon Dr Ayham Al-Ayoubi, with whom you will have plenty of opportunities to ask any questions you may have about the procedure. The consultation will take around 30 minutes during which time you will not be given the "hard sell". No pressure will be put on you to go through with the procedure, and you will not be forced to make a decision at the consultation. We understand that this is a big decision for you and we want you to be totally satisfied that it's the right thing to do before committing to the procedure booking.

Things to consider

It is important that your decision to have a cosmetic surgery procedure is considered carefully. There are many points that should be considered before deciding to have any type of cosmetic treatment or surgery.

There are also some possible risks, as with all surgical operations, which your cosmetic surgeon will talk through and explain to you at your consultation, answering any questions you may have. This is your opportunity to discuss your intended surgery in order that the cosmetic surgeon can ascertain your expectations as to what can realistically be achieved.

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For more information about Liposuction or to book a consultation
please call London Medical & Aesthetic Clinic at 1 Harley Street
on 0208 342 1100 or email us info@Lmaclinic.com

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