Liposuction in London
Liposuction in London with Centre for Surgery, involves removing fatty deposits from underneath the skin in order to reshape certain areas of your body. Liposuction is also known as liposculpture, lipoplasty and suction-assisted lipectomy (SAL).
Centre for Surgery are experts in body shaping liposuction for both women and men.
Centre for Surgery uses the SAFElipo, which is a new method of fat reduction employing a multi-step process and uses power-assisted liposuction (PAL) to remove the body fat. This means you will have less scarring and side effects that can occur with traditional liposuction methods. This is considered a less invasive method and has a faster recovery time.
The PAL adds gentle vibration to the process to break up fat cells. The process is very selective so the connective tissue framework is preserved. An analogy is akin to plucking grapes off a vine whilst preserving the delicate structure of the vine.
Ultrasound and laser assisted lipo involve the application of heat to the tissues. PAL lipo is a heat-free method meaning the risk of burns is eliminated making it a much safer method of fat extraction.
An easier extraction means a quicker procedure, less bruising and swelling and a faster recovery.
Liposuction allows for you to not only remove fatty tissue, but it will help to improve your body proportions and contours, leaving you with an increased self-image and body confidence.
Centre for Surgery also offers liposculpture for men, abdominal etching, mons pubis liposuction, saddlebags, bra roll, neck, bingo wings and buffalo hump removal.
Always check that your surgeon is on the GMC specialist register for plastic surgery before proceeding with a consultation. All our surgeons are fully accredited plastic surgeons and only perform procedures in CQC regulated facilities. Our clinic at 106 Crawford Street was recently inspected and rated as good across all 5 domains.
Learn more about the power-assisted liposuction technique which all our surgeons use as standard for all liposuction procedures.
If you also have loose skin but not keen on invasive surgery like a tummy tuck, arm lift or thigh lift, Centre for Surgery perform the BodyTite procedure which can contract skin without the scars of more invasive surgery.
All our surgeons are on the GMC specialist register for plastic surgery. The Royal College of Surgeons of England has an excellent information resource on cosmetic surgery.
The top liposuction surgeons in London
Our surgeons are full members of:
How to choose your plastic surgeon
Board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr Mitsakos and Dr Tillo have between them many years of performing expert liposuction. They have used all the liposuction techniques over the years including LASER lipo, VASER lipo, BodyJet lipo and Tickle Lipo.
Both surgeons agree that PAL lipo is the GOLD standard method of liposuction with the best long-term overall results.
Why choose Centre for Surgery for your liposuction procedure
- Many years of experience in all types of liposuction – traditional, Laser, RF and power-assisted
- We own and manage our own surgical facilities. Properly performed liposuction takes time and should not be rushed. Our surgeons perform a maximum of two liposuction procedures in a day. We do not cram 5-6 procedures into one day like other providers. You want your surgeon to be well-rested and mentally and physically sharp to perform liposuction which is a very physically demanding procedure to get the very best results.
The benefits of outpatient cosmetic surgery
- Our surgeons live and work in London. We don’t work with ‘fly-in, fly-out’ surgeons from Italy. This is very important because whilst your surgeon takes all precautions to minimise complications, complications can and do occur and our surgeons are readily available to manage any issues if and when they arise. Excellent continuity of care is extremely important with a surgical procedure such as liposuction.
Benefits of power-assisted liposuction (PAL)
PAL improves upon traditional liposuction in every respect:
- Improved surgeon precision for body sculpting and contouring
- PAL is not heat based, so patient burns are not a concern
- Shorter recovery time
- Less bruising, swelling and trauma
- Increased patient comfort and improved safety
- Greater cell viability for autologous fat grafting and reinjection
Using the power-assisted lipossculpture (or PAL) method, which involves using specially designed precision cannulas, body proportions and contours are improved. PAL Liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure leaves small scars and has a shorter operating time compared to traditional liposuction with minimal bruising and swelling.
The SAFElipo method of liposuction used at Centre for Surgery is used for our signature procedure, the Brazilian Butt Lift or BBL. The BBL procedure utilises the two highly effective techniques of SAFElipo and EVL (expansion vibration lipofilling) in combination. Read more about BBL.
Female liposuction before and after
Case 1:
PAL lipo of abdomen in profile view.
Case 2:
360 liposuction of abdomen and flanks.
Case 3:
PAL lipo of inner and outer thighs.
Case 4:
360 liposuction + fat transfer to buttocks.
Case 5:
360 liposuction + fat transfer to buttocks.
Male liposuction before and after
Case 1:
High definition PAL lipo to abdomen.
Case 2 and 3:
High definition liposuction to abdomen.
Case 4:
PAL lipo to chest + excision of gynecomastia tissue.
Case 5:
Debulking liposuction of abdomen (2500cc removed).
Case 6:
PAL lipo of chest.
Case 7:
Revision PAL lipo to abdomen – 1500cc removed. First procedure performed in Turkey. Home the same day and back to work 2 days later.
Case 8:
PAL lipo to abdomen. 1600cc removed.
Read our latest testimonials from our amazing patients
Liposuction Candidates
You will be a suitable candidate for liposuction if you have fatty deposits that you have been unable to reduce even with physical exercise and diets. Liposculpture is able to be performed in areas of the body such as chin, saddlebags, bra roll, mons pubis, thighs, arms, buttocks, abdomen and calves.
Candidates will need to:
- Be physically and mentally healthy
- Not be considered obese
- Be at a stable weight for a minimum three months before the liposuction treatment. It is best to try and lose as much weight possible before the liposuction
- Have elasticity in the skin, as the skin will need to shrink after the procedure
Who is not a good patient for liposuction?
Patients who are:
- Obese
- Heavy smokers
- Have a lot of loose skin – no liposuction causes skin tightening
- Have cellulite
Liposuction risks and how to avoid them
Liposuction is not a suitable treatment for obesity. There is no substitute for diet and exercise, but once the weight loss is complete, liposuction can be of significant benefit.
If you are considered to be a suitable candidate, you may wish to look at what finance options we have available for this procedure.
Crisalix 3D imaging for lipoplasty
Unique to Centre for Surgery, we are proud to offer the amazing Crisalix 3D imaging experience to all our patients. Visualise in incredible detail how your could look after your lipoplasty procedure.
Crisalix 3D imaging is offered as standard at your liposuction consultation.
Liposuction Procedure
Power assisted liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure for body contouring that is viewed as the current gold standard for performing liposuction.
Prior to undergoing liposculpture, you will be given a general anaesthetic, which is known as ClearSleep™. Unlike other forms of anaesthetic, ClearSleep™ does not involve the use of any breathing tubes or machines and results in a quicker recovery following the procedure.
Centre for Surgery uses the SAFElipo™ procedure, which involves three precise steps:
- Separation: surgeons will use power-assisted liposculpture (PAL) which will separate the fat globules. Unlike traditional liposuction methods, SAFElipo™ will not damage the stromal network and blood vessels. This step helps to loosen the fat cells, making them easier to be removed.
- Aspiration: surgeons will remove the fat cells using small, thin cannulas. The blood vessels and tissue will remain intact, meaning you will experience fewer side effects during the recovery period.
- Fat equalisation: after liposuction, a light layer of fat will still remain. This layer is then equalised using probes – it doesn’t even involve suction. This allows you to have a toned, smooth and natural looking results.
The results of SAFELipo are evident even on the operating table. Both images below are actual on-table results. The result will continue to improve even more over time with skin contraction.
Case 1 and 2:
Instant improvement in abdominal and flank contour visible in both cases. Home the same day and back to work in 2 days – such results not achievable with ‘fat freezing’, ‘non-surgical lipo’ or any other non-invasive option.
SAFElipo™ is performed as an outpatient surgery, so you will be able to return home the same day as your liposuction procedure, once the effects of the anaesthetic have worn off.
Microlipo before and after
Microlipo is a specialist technique with the main advantage of being performed as an awake procedure. For smaller, more localised areas and in selected patients, Microlipo can be an excellent option with far superior results to non-surgical methods of fat removal.
The above 4 cases were performed with an advanced form of local anaesthesia known as the ‘tumescent technique’. Patients were ready for discharge 30 minutes after their procedure and back to work the next day with minimal disruption to their activities of daily living.
Recovery after Liposuction
As liposuction is a surgical procedure, you may have to take two to three days off work. However, if you have had liposuction in multiple areas, you may require additional time off work.
After the liposuction, you will be able to notice swelling, however, this will begin to reduce in 7-10 days. You will have to avoid strenuous physical exercise for two weeks, after which mild exercise is permitted. You will be able to resume your usual physical activities after four to six weeks. While swelling will reside, it can often be present for three to five months.
SAFElipo for liposuction correction
Liposuction using laser or ultrasound destroys fat cells by the generation of very high temperatures under the skin. The downside of this is that heat also destroys the intricate connective tissue framework and blood vessels that surround the fat cells to be suctioned.
Properly performed liposculpture with natural looking results is the result of preservation of these vital structures. The risks of scarring and adhesions leading to uneven rippled skin is a significant risk of liposuction performed with Ultrasound or Laser
Be very weary of providers offering ‘local anaesthetic only liposuction’. Whilst a local anaesthetic may be suitable for very small areas in appropriate patients, it is not advised to have large areas treated with local anaesthetic only. Surgeons at Centre for Surgery do offer Microlipo to carefully selected patients. The most common reason for poor results in our surgeon’s experience is liposuction performed under local anaesthetic in sub-standard facilities by non-surgeons often in a Harley Street location. It is highly probable that such practitioners lack the formal credentials to perform the procedure in accredited settings where the full range of anaesthesia options are available. Unnatural contours and lumpy, wavy skin are risks of liposuction when performed by improperly trained practitioners. Centre for Surgery offer a general anaesthetic option in most liposuction cases and this allows our surgeons to achieve their best results in controlled conditions and where the anaesthetist can focus on keeping the patient comfortable throughout.
Centre for Surgery also offer laser lipolysis and microlipo under local anaesthetic for suitable candidates using only the safest protocols by board-certified surgeons.
If you’ve had lipoplasty elsewhere and are unhappy with the results, there is now a robust solution with SAFElipo performed by a fully qualified plastic surgeon. Please note there will be a non-refundable consultation fee for all revision liposuction consultations.
SAFElipo is ideally suited for revision liposuction as the vibrating cannula respects the soft tissue as it effortlessly glides through the tissues and is highly selective for fat cell extraction. The cannula generates no heat and with the use of specially designed exploded tip cannulas, the fat is separated and emulsified. This generates an even bed of tissue which reduces scarring. The procedure is completed with microcannulas to smoothen out the skin without lumps or waves.
Liposuction before and after
Case 1:
Extensive 360 liposuction of abdomen, flanks and back + bilateral breast reduction. Home the same day and the patient made an excellent recovery.
Power assisted liposuction + BodyTite
PAL Lipo before and after – 1 week later
The cases above illustrate early results only one week after the procedure. Patients vary in the amount of bruising and swelling but you’ll get a good idea of what to expect early in the recovery process.
Further reading on liposuction
FAQs
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What is Liposuction?Liposuction is a surgical technique used to remove unwanted pockets of fat from the body. Excess fat is removed using a specialised device called a cannula which is connected to a high power vacuum. The extraction of fat beneath the skin surface creates a smoother and more contoured appearance to the treated area.
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What areas can be treated with liposculpture?Liposuction can be used on the body areas listed below:
Chin and neck
Upper arms
Male chest
Female breast reduction
Abdomen and flanks
Back
Hips
Buttocks
Knees -
What does PAL lipo involve?PAL lipo is performed under a general anaesthetic although you may be suitable for other forms of anaesthesia if appropriate. The areas to be treated will be marked before the procedure. The marked areas are injected with a special local anaesthetic solution which also helps to soften the fat cells to be extracted. The local anaesthetic solution is also known as tumescent anaesthesia and helps to reduce bruising and swelling after the procedure. The surgeon makes small incisions to permit access for liposuction cannula. The cannula vibrates which helps to break down the fat more efficiently whilst allowing simultaneous extraction. At the end of the procedure, the areas are dressed with a sterile dressing and a compression garment is applied.
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What are the anaesthesia options for liposuction?Liposuction is mostly performed under deep sedation/general anesthetic. You will be comfortably asleep for the duration of the procedure.
Deep sedation is favoured for cases that are expected to be longer in duration.
In some cases local anaesthesia can be used but this is usually reserved for smaller localised areas in patients who prefer to be more awake for their procedure.
Your surgeon will discuss the full range of anaesthesia options at your consultation. -
How is suitability for lipoplasty determined?If you have pockets of fat resistant to diet and exercise then you be an ideal candidate. Liposuction should not be viewed as a method of weight loss.
You should ideally be as close to your ideal weight as possible
In addition, the skin should be firm and have elasticity to it in order to shrink following the procedure.
Your surgeon will fully assess you at an in-depth consultation where a full medical history will be taken and you will undergo a physical examination.
You should be a non-smoker with good overall health. -
How long does liposuction take ?Liposuction procedures can take anything from 1-4 hours depending on the areas treated and the amount of fat to be removed.
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Is liposuction a permanent method of fat removal ?Yes, liposuction is a safe, effective and permanent method of fat removal.
The fat cells are physically removed via liposuction and therefore making it unlikely they not be able to grow back again.
As long as a healthy weight is maintained through healthy eating and regular exercise, the results will be maintained for many years. -
What is the most effective form of liposuction?There are many methods of liposuction including laser lipo, VASER lipo, BodyJet lipo, Tickle Lipo etc. Many of these methods are performed by non-plastic surgeons.
The gold standard of liposuction is currently Power Assisted Liposuction (PAL lipo) which is what all surgeons at Centre for Surgery currently use. -
Are there any alternatives to liposuction?In some cases, liposuction may not be the best option for you.
If you have loose/ sagging skin, a skin excision procedure may be more appropriate such as abdominoplasty, arm lift or thigh lift. Liposuction is specifically for localised fat deposits in those with good skin quality. In some cases, liposuction could even worsen appearance in those with pre-existing skin laxity. -
Can liposuction be combined with other procedures?Liposuction is very commonly combined with other procedures such as abdominoplasty, gynecomastia removal, arm lifts and thigh lifts. Doing the liposuction first helps to debulk the area before the skin is surgically removed - combining the 2 techniques of liposuction and skin excision can produce very impressive results compared with either technique performed in isolation.
Centre for Surgery also specialise in the BodyTite procedure which is a minimally invasive approach to skin tightening without the traditional long scars from tummy tuck, arm lift or thigh lift. -
Is liposuction a safe procedure?There are risks with any surgical procedure, but liposuction is known to possess a very favourable safety compared with more major procedures such as abdominoplasty surgery.
Your surgeon will go through with you fully all the possible risks of the liposuction procedure.
Risks include bleeding, bruising, loss of sensation, scarring, contour abnormalities, seroma and haematoma.
In experienced hands, the risk of these complications are very low. -
Is liposuction a painful procedure to have?Patients will usually have general anaesthetic for their liposuction procedure which minimises any pain or discomfort felt.
You may feel some discomfort after the procedure which is treated with pain relief medication. -
Laser Lipo v SAFElipoUnlike laser liposuction, SAFElipo™ does not involve any heat. Laser lipo carries a slightly higher risk of side effects such as uneven, wavy skin due to the heat produced by the laser fibre as it melts the fat.
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How do I prepare for liposuction?Stop smoking four weeks prior to liposuction.
Stop certain medications as directed by your surgeon.
Use an antiseptic wash before surgery to reduce the risk of infection. -
How long before I can return to work?On average between 2-3 days to 1 week depending on the size of the procedure.
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How long is the recovery?Bruising and swelling will be present, but should begin to resolve in about 10 days. You can resume mild exercise in about two weeks, and full activity can be resumed in about six weeks.
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Will I feel dizzy after liposuction?If a large amount of fat is being removed (4 L+) then there may be symptoms of lightheadedness and dizziness. One week off work is recommended.
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What is the maximum amount of fat that can be removed in one session?Our surgeons limit their liposuction volumes to a maximum of about 4 litres. If any more fat is removed, the risk of complications increases significantly. Therefore if you think you have more than 4L of fat you want removed, you may need more than one session of liposuction.
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Is it normal to be draining fluid after the liposuction surgery?It is normal to have reddish coloured fluid draining from the incision sites for the first 24-48hr after the liposuction procedure. The procedure involves injection of tumescent fluid to help break up the fat, minimise bleeding, and ease the suctioning of the fat. Some of this fluid is removed during the liposuction, some is absorbed by your body, and some of it drains out following the surgery. Patients sometimes think they are bleeding when in fact it is just the normal drainage after liposuction.
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Are there any risks associated with liposuction?The main risks following liposuction include bleeding, infection, swelling and blood clots, but these are very rare.
The surgeon will take all appropriate precautions to minimise the risk of complications developing.
What To Expect
Find the right time
Our friendly and knowledgeable patient coordinators will speak with you to learn about your requirements, it’s all confidential and your information will be used to assess whether liposuction is right for you. If the procedure is right for you, we’ll organise a convenient date and time for you to visit to come and visit our patient relationship manager at our bespoke central London clinic at 106 Crawford Street.
Crisalix 3D imaging
We will take time to listen to your needs and requirements and you you will receive a complementary 3D Crisalix scan to enhance your experience. You will be given a rough idea of guide prices at this stage. You can then be booked in to to see a surgeon of your choice based on their individual field of expertise.
Personalised quote
At the surgical consultation, you will meet directly with the plastic surgeon. The surgeon will thoroughly assess you to determine your suitability and advise of the best options for you. Your surgeon will then explain how the procedure will work including our innovative ClearSleep™ anaesthesia technique for those who chose to be asleep for their procedure. You will receive your personalised quote the next working day from your patient coordinator.