Liposuction surgery for men

Liposuction is an increasingly popular type of cosmetic surgery. It is particularly effective if you have a problem area that you can't tone through exercising. Liposuction for men can be particularly effective, as the skin retains elasticity for longer and the area of fat beneath the skin tends to be firmer than in women.

Liposuction for men re-contours one or more areas of the body by removing localised deposits of fat. As the fat cells are not replaced by your body, there's a long-lasting change in your body shape, especially if you exercise, eat a healthy diet, and maintain a healthy weight after the operation.

The operation can usually be treated as a day-case although an overnight stay may be required, depending on what's being done. It is usually carried out under general anaesthetic. However, it may be carried out under a local anaesthetic, so that the affected area will be numb but you will be awake. Your surgeon can use different methods and will discuss the most appropriate technique for you.

In the most common technique, a wet liposuction, the surgeon injects a mix of salty solution, local anaesthetic and adrenaline into the fatty area being treated. This helps reduce bleeding, bruising and swelling and makes it easier to remove the fat cells.

A cut is made in your skin and a thin metal tube (a cannula) is inserted. The cannula is attached to a vacuum pump or a syringe which sucks out the fat and the fluid. Once your surgeon has removed the required amount of fat, the cannula will be taken out and your cut(s) will be closed with stitches.

The surgeon may also perform an ultrasound liposuction if the fat is very firm or there's a lot of it. This treatment breaks up the fat before it's removed.

To get the best results you must follow your surgeon's instructions completely. You will be given painkillers to help relieve any discomfort as the anaesthetic wears off. If you have day-case surgery, you should be able to go home after recovering from the anaesthetic. If you have a general anaesthetic, you will need to arrange for a friend or relative to drive you home and stay with you for the next 24 hours.

You will need to wear elasticated bandages for two to three weeks but they can be removed when washing and bathing. The consultant will take you through all the risks and benefits associated with this type of procedure and it is important to talk through your expectations with your consultant before the procedure.

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