Liposuction

Fat that is deposited in the body during periods of weight gain is usually lost by exercise and dieting. However, the type of fat that is deposited in certain areas of the body such as the outer thighs, inner thighs, buttocks, flanks and abdomen is different and does not respond to these measures. These fat deposits are known as areas of lipodystrophy and have to be treated by liposuction or surgery or a combination of the two.

Why do patients seek liposuction?

Patients who have undertaken exercise programmes and diet regimes remain unhappy with unsightly bulges even after significant weight loss. They find that they are unable to get clothes that fit, they have unsightly bulges in fitted skirts and trousers or their thighs rub or chafe in the middle especially in hot weather. The lower abdomen and flanks bulge and are visible above and below the waistline in skirts and trousers and swimwear. Patients are self-conscious about their appearance on social occasions, on holiday, on the beach and seek advice about the possibility of having liposuction to correct the problem.

What does the procedure involve?

Liposuction is usually carried out under a general anaesthetic but small areas may sometimes be treated under local anaesthetic with sedation as a daycase. Liposuction of large areas or of multiple areas involves a hospital stay of one night. The procedure is carried out through multiple small incisions (a few millimetres in length) in areas that are hidden. These are closed with one or two very fine sutures which give rise to scars which are almost invisible in the long term. Following surgery patients are given an elasticated garment which helps to reduce postoperative swelling.

What is the normal postoperative care?

Patients can usually have a shower the day after the procedure and reapply waterproof dressings over the sutures. Sutures are removed a week later and an outpatient review appointment is usually made two weeks after the procedure. An elasticated pressure garment is worn for four to six weeks after the procedure to help swelling to resolve.

What is the aftercare following this surgery?

Most patients experience slight discomfort but no pain following liposuction. This is adequately controlled with painkillers for the first few days after the procedure. The treated areas are bruised and swollen for seven to ten days after the procedure. The final result of liposuction is usually not visible until approximately six to twelve weeks after surgery.

How much time do I need off work?

Following liposuction for a single area or a small area most patients can return to work within a few days. For multiple areas or large areas of liposuction one to two weeks is a reasonable time to take off work.

What are the complications of this procedure?

Liposuction can have complications just like any other surgical procedure. These include bleeding, haematoma (blood clot under the skin), seroma (fluid collection under the skin) and a change in sensation in the skin over the area that has been treated. There can be asymmetry or rippling of the skin overlying the treated area. Very rarely do patients need a revision procedure following liposuction.

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Diary of a Liposuction with Abdominoplasty

“Around 12 years ago, having had three children and putting on weight, I considered having surgery to improve the unsightly, loose and folding skin around my tummy. The tops of my arms, legs, flanks and tummy were fat and disproportionate to the rest of my body. I often had problems fitting comfortably into clothing and couldn’t always buy what I liked.

At the time, I decided against surgery but 12 years later and still very unhappy with my shape I started to re-think having a tummy tuck and liposuction. I began to research the procedure in depth, using governmental websites, surgeons’ personal websites. I also spoke to support and hospital staff. I was looking for a consultant who was well qualified, had lots of experience and could help me manage my psychological and physical concerns.

I had a shortlist of 4 consultants and Mr Sood was the first I met after the gap of 12 years. He addressed all my questions and instilled my husband and me in his ability to meet our needs. My husband and I both agreed that there was no need to contact another consultant.

6th May:

Operation Day: I could not have been more anxious.

Immediately after the operation I felt very drowsy and a little uncomfortable, but nowhere near as bad as I expected. I first saw my new flat tummy and my slimmer arms and legs earlier this evening. I couldn’t believe it was me. Even the pressure garments were lovely.

I was concerned about the re-building of my tummy button but when I saw my tummy button today I was amazed and delighted. It’s so neat and very nearly perfect. You can hardly see the stitching!

8th May:

I returned from hospital today, surprised at the relatively short recovery time from all four procedures.

20th May:

2 weeks after the operation, I’m back to work (although my husband drove). I had lots of nice comments and after just two weeks I feel great. It’s good to get out of the house and buy some new clothes!

6th June:

4 weeks after the operation, I was looking forward to showing Mr Sood how I looked. He advised me further on a couple of points and I was even more pleased that my arms, legs and tummy would look even slimmer as the weeks go on. I asked about occasional mild and sharp pains and he explained that this is where the nerves are repairing.

I cannot thank Mr Sood enough for the skilful body sculpturing he has done for me. Thank you also to his team, particularly his cosmetic nurse Kathy Blackmore, who were so well organised and supportive towards me.

My biggest regret is not having it earlier. I’m a confident and gregarious person with no relationship problems and this has still lifted me so much. I can imagine how satisfying it could be to someone with low self-esteem. I look forward to enjoying being almost the shape I was before I had children – it’s also given me all the incentive I need to maintain a good diet and exercise plan – a new shape to enjoy for the rest of my life.”

JC

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