Liposuction

Liposuction, often referred to as "lipo," is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to remove stubborn fat deposits from specific areas of the body.

During the procedure, fat cells are broken down using either vibrations or a high-pressure water jet. Small incisions are made to introduce a cannula, which is used to loosen and suction out the fat. Where a larger area requires treatment, multiple incisions may be necessary. Excess fluids and blood are carefully drained before the treatment site is sutured and bandaged.

After undergoing liposuction, patients are provided with a compression garment to wear for several weeks, helping to reduce swelling and bruising.

The Cadogan Clinic was founded by Mr. Bryan Mayou, a pioneer who introduced liposuction to the UK over 40 years ago.

Today, we house the country's leading team of liposuction experts, boasting unparalleled experience in various techniques. Our extensive expertise allows us to offer diverse liposuction methods tailored to your specific needs. Currently, our offerings include Lipomatic, MicroAir, BodyJet, MicroLiposuction, and SmartLipoMPX, utilising ultrasound for liposuction.

Liposuction offers a quick, safe, and effective solution for permanently eliminating stubborn fat deposits that resist diet and exercise. Unlike weight loss, which shrinks fat cells, liposuction removes fat cells entirely. 

This means that even if you gain weight in the future, the treated areas will retain their relative shape. The procedure enhances body proportions, improves clothing fit, and minimises scarring thanks to small incisions.

You should be aware that liposuction is not an effective solution to cellulite or obesity. If you need treatment for cellulite you should discuss combining procedures with your surgeon. Consult with your surgeon if you are looking for weight loss advice, where liposuction may be part of a long-term treatment plan.

Liposuction can be performed under local or general anaesthesia. While local anaesthesia may be suitable for smaller areas like the neck, it can be less comfortable and more time-consuming. 

At the Cadogan Clinic, we prefer Total Intravenous Anaesthesia (TIVA) for most procedures. TIVA ensures a more comfortable and quicker wake-up experience, allowing patients to return home on the same day.

Both men and women undergo liposuction each year to achieve various goals. Liposuction can effectively address gynecomastia in men and common areas like the stomach, hips, and thighs in women.

Consider liposuction if:

• You have stubborn fat deposits resistant to diet and exercise.
• You seek improved body proportion and contour.
• Your skin is in good condition.
• You have realistic expectations.

Liposuction may not be suitable if you have loose, sagging skin or require significant weight loss. Cellulite treatment may also require a different approach.

Selecting an experienced and qualified surgeon is crucial for your liposuction procedure. A good surgeon will provide in-depth explanations of the procedure, recovery, and potential risks. They should have a portfolio of liposuction before-and-after photos and offer patient testimonials. Your surgeon should prioritise your physical and psychological well-being.

Ensure your surgeon is a registered doctor or surgeon on the General Medical Council (GMC) online register. Membership in professional associations like BAAPS or BAPRAS may also be indicative of expertise, but it's essential to consider the surgeon's qualifications and experience.

Yes, in certain cases, a tummy tuck and liposuction can be performed concurrently.  

While liposuction primarily targets fat removal, a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, focuses on excess skin removal, resulting in a firmer, flatter abdomen. Abdominoplasty can also address other concerns, including stretch marks, weakened abdominal muscles, and uneven fat distribution. 

Abdominoplasty is known for delivering impressive results with minimal downtime. 

Liposuction recovery is relatively quick, thanks to the procedure's simplicity and you should be active within 6-8 weeks. 

Liposuction recovery begins as soon you awaken from sedation, with advanced TIVA anaesthesia techniques ensuring a quicker and more comfortable wake-up experience. We recommend taking approximately one week off from work to allow for mild bruising and swelling to subside.  

Pain is typically minimal, and most patients can resume their daily activities and light exercise within a few weeks, avoiding strenuous activities during this period. Wearing a compression garment for six weeks aids in reducing swelling. 

Liposuction recovery is finally complete in around six weeks when results should start to be visible. Full results will take between six to 12 months.   

Liposuction London cost starts from £3,950.  

Liposuction costs can vary widely across the UK, influenced by several key factors such as reputation, experience, and the quality of the clinic, surgeon and nursing staff, as well as the quality and track record of the pre-and post-operative care.  

When choosing a provider or surgeon for your liposuction procedure, safety and quality of care should be your top priorities. The level of experience that both the clinic and surgeon have with liposuction procedures is essential.  

The cost of your liposuction surgery is also an important critical factor to consider when selecting a clinic. At the Cadogan Clinic, we exclusively collaborate with top-tier surgeons and nursing staff at our specialised facilities in Chelsea. Our primary focus is on delivering safe, high-quality surgery, whilst providing exceptional value for our patients. 

Please note that the liposuction prices quoted online are approximate and subject to confirmation during an in-person consultation. The Liposuction London cost may vary depending on whether you choose local or general anaesthesia. 

It's important to mention that liposuction costs in the UK are exempt from VAT as they are considered medical procedures. 

While liposuction is the preferred method for substantial fat reduction, there are some liposuction alternatives. These include: 

• Surgical Fat Excision (effective for smaller areas) 
• Chemical Injections (multiple treatments, limited control) 
• Non-Surgical Options (less effective, limited results) 

You can expect minimal Liposuction scars due to the small incisions typically used during the procedure. At the Cadogan Clinic, we prioritise minimising these scars by using as few incisions as possible and employing gentle techniques to minimise trauma. 
For those prone to severe scarring, we also offer a comprehensive scar management program utilising high-energy devices and lasers. 

While liposuction is a relatively low-risk procedure, it's essential to be aware of potential liposuction side effects, including numbness, infection, embolism, oedema, and allergic reactions.  

At the Cadogan Clinic, we have over 40 years of experience in liposuction and take extensive precautions to manage these risks. Our 24/7 nursing on-call service is available for any post-surgery concerns. 

You can see liposuction before and after photos at the top of this page or on our dedicated liposuction before and after photo gallery.