Liposuction and Fat Transfer

What the procedure is

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes localised fat deposits through fine cannulas introduced via small incisions, used to improve body contour in areas such as the abdomen, flanks, back, thighs, arms and under the chin.

It is not a treatment for obesity or a method of weight loss; the effect is on shape and contour rather than on the number on the scale.

The term four-dimensional describes a sculpting approach that takes account of the natural appearance of muscle in movement in addition to the three static dimensions. It is a matter of technique and does not change the nature of the surgical risks.

Fat that has been removed can be processed and some of it re-injected elsewhere to restore volume, which is known as autologous fat transfer.

Who is a suitable candidate

• People with defined, localised fat deposits despite stable weight and regular physical activity.
• People whose skin has good elasticity, since it is the skin that retracts over the new contour once fat is removed.
• People in good general health without uncontrolled medical conditions.
• People whose expectations relate to improved contour rather than to a wholesale change in body shape or to weight loss.

How it is performed

Performed under general anaesthesia, or local anaesthesia with sedation, depending on the number and size of areas treated.

A solution containing local anaesthetic and a vasoconstrictor is infiltrated into the area to limit bleeding and ease fat removal.

Fine cannulas are introduced through small incisions hidden in skin creases where possible, and fat is removed in graduated, criss-crossing passes to keep the surface even.

Duration is commonly one to three hours depending on the number of areas. Where fat transfer is included, the harvested fat is processed before injection.

Recovery

• Most cases are discharged the same day or after one night.
• A compression garment is worn for several weeks as directed.
• Bruising and swelling are expected, peaking in the first days and then subsiding gradually.
• Return to desk work is often around a week, and sporting activity after about four weeks or as advised.
• The final shape usually takes three to six months to settle as swelling resolves.

Scars

Incisions are very small and placed in concealed positions where possible, leaving small scars that become less noticeable over time.

At fat-transfer sites the injection marks are pinpoint and usually resolve.

Risks and complications

Every operation carries risk. This is an educational list, not an exhaustive one; the risks specific to your case are discussed during consultation.

• Risks of anaesthesia.
• Surface irregularity or rippling, particularly where skin elasticity is poor.
• Asymmetry between the two sides.
• Fluid collection or haematoma.
• Altered sensation in the treated area, usually temporary.
• Skin laxity if elasticity is insufficient for the skin to retract over the new contour.
• Infection.
• In fat transfer: reabsorption of a proportion of the injected fat, which varies between individuals, and the formation of fat lumps or calcification.
• Fat embolism and venous thrombosis — rare but serious.

Combining with other procedures

Liposuction is often combined with abdominoplasty or with breast surgery. Where skin is clearly loose, liposuction alone is not sufficient and a skin-tightening procedure is discussed instead.

Common questions