| LPS | Liposuction |
|---|---|
| Procedure | Liposuction (=liposculpture / liposculpting / lipomodelling / lipoplasty / fat aspiration / suction lipectomy / lipo) can reshape localised fatty areas such as abdomen, breasts, axillae, buttocks, flanks, thighs or neck (=submental). It can also reduce chafing in the upper thigh areas. It is not suitable for general weight reduction because of medical risks and insufficient aesthetic improvements. Aspirated fat can be used for fat transfer (=lipofilling) to other areas such as breasts, outer labia, cheeks or lower eyelids. The wounds are repaired with sutures under the skin which do not require removal and dissolve within four months. A support garment following surgery is recommended. |
| Scars | 3-5mm |
| Operation time | 1 hour |
| Anaesthesia | General or Local |
| Hospital Stay | Day Surgery |
| Benefits | Aesthetic, Psychological, Functional |
| Risks | Bleeding, Infection, Scar problems (stretched, thick, abnormal pigmentation, red, retracted etc.), Skin discoloration, Friction/thermal burns, Wound separation, Slough, Necrosis, Pain, Nerve injury (Numbness, weakness, paralysis), Bruising, Swelling, Overcorrection, Undercorrection, Asymmetry, Skin laxity / folds, Aesthetic imperfections (higher risk after subsequent pregnancies / weight changes), Seroma, Organ injury, Contour irregularities, Fluid shift with heart and kidney problems, Fat embolism, Need for further surgery, Liposuction does not improve cellulite, Allergic reaction, Chest infection, Heart attack, Stroke, Blood clots in legs & lungs. N.B. Most complications are unlikely. Serious risks or death are rare |
| Risk factors | Alcohol, Poor tissue quality can cause recurrent laxity, Asymmetry cannot be entirely corrected, Too early or excessive mobilisation, Wound interference without surgeon's agreement; Contraindications which preclude surgery unless discussed otherwise in the consultation: Smoking / vaping / nicotine / recreational inhalations within 6 weeks before and after surgery, Contraception with estrogens or HRT tablets (if under general anaesthetic), Air travel over 2 hours within 6 weeks before and after surgery (if under general anaesthetic), Air travel under 2 hours within 2 weeks before and after surgery, Overweight (Body Mass Index = BMI of 27 and over), Recent weight changes over 6kg, Pregnancy (if under general anaesthetic), Raised blood pressure (if poorly controlled), Bleeding tendency (Stop herbal products or supplements for two weeks before surgery), Diabetes or immunosuppression (if poorly controlled) |
| Optimising factors | Diet rich in Vitamin C and protein, plenty of fluids, fresh air, sufficient sleep, scar massage, sun protection, silicone sheets / gel, support garments |
| Discomfort | 1 - 2 weeks |
| Bruising | 2 - 3 weeks |
| Recovery | Light activities 1 week, Driving 1 - 2 weeks, Physical work & sports 4 weeks |
| Acceptable appearance | 2 - 4 weeks for most patients (This is subjective) |
| Final result | 6 - 18 months |
| Alternatives | No Surgery, Garments, Weight loss, Excisional surgery |
Anstey Hall
Maris Lane
Cambridge
CB2 9LN
