Liposuction

Liposuction (also called liposculpture or suction-assisted lipectomy) removes localised deposits of excess fat to refine body contour and proportion. It is one of the most common contouring procedures — but it is not a treatment for general weight loss or obesity.

Anaesthetic: General (sometimes local)
Hospital stay: Overnight
Time off work: About 1 week
Final result: Final contour over a few months

A general guide only — your own timeline is confirmed at consultation.

What it involves

Through tiny incisions, usually under a centimetre and hidden in natural creases, a fine cannula breaks up and suctions away fat. Modern narrow cannulae allow smooth, refined sculpting, and a tumescent technique may be used to reduce bleeding and bruising. The skin then shrinks and adapts to the new contour, so good skin elasticity helps the result.

Who it may suit

Best suited to patients with good skin tone and localised, diet-resistant fat — commonly the abdomen, hips, thighs, waist, back, arms or chin. Younger skin tends to contract more smoothly; where skin laxity is significant, liposuction may be combined with skin-tightening surgery.

Recovery

An overnight hospital stay is usual, and a compression garment is worn continuously for about three weeks. Most patients return to light activities within about a week. Temporary numbness in the treated areas usually resolves within six to eight weeks, and swelling settles over several weeks to months.

This page is a general guide. Every procedure is planned individually — the details, risks and recovery relevant to you are discussed at consultation.

Patient information leaflet Download the full liposuction leaflet (PDF)

Common questions

Is liposuction a weight-loss procedure?

No. It improves shape and contour in specific areas; it is not a treatment for generalised weight loss or a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.

Will the fat come back?

The fat cells removed do not return, but the remaining cells can still enlarge with weight gain, so keeping a stable weight helps preserve the result.