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The Different Types of Liposuction: Which Procedure Is Right For You?

Types Of Liposuction

All liposuction methods target and remove stubborn body fat in multiple areas around the body, but each can provide different advantages and disadvantages. There can be differences in recovery time and areas treated – some types, such as BodyTite, create extra cosmetic effects such as skin tightening. It is important to be fully informed of each of the types of liposuction to understand which one suits your needs.

This article will explore the different types of liposuction available in the UK, and help you decide which procedure is right for you and your aesthetic goals.

At the CREO Clinic we offer specialist liposuction surgeons who prioritise patient safety and achieving the highest quality results. Our Medical Director and experienced body contouring surgeon, Dr. Omar Tillo, is proficient in the use of all liposuction types, and will decide which is right for you after a thorough clinical assessment.

Book a consultation at the CREO Clinic and discover the ways Dr. Tillo can sculpt your physique with targeted liposuction.

The Different Types Of Liposuction: Which Procedure Is Right For You? Medically reviewed by Dr. Omar Tillo MD, MS, EBOPRAS, FRCS (Plast)

What Is Liposuction & How Does The Procedure Work?

Liposuction is the targeted removal of unwanted body fat from one or multiple areas around the body through surgical procedure. Typically, liposuction targets the abdomen, hips, knees, thighs or backs of the arms, using a suction-assisted cannula to extract fat and fine tune. It can be performed alone or as a complement to other plastic surgery procedures such as tummy tucks, mummy makeovers or gynecomastia surgery. 

3 Types of Liposuction Procedures To Consider

Power Assisted Liposuction (PAL)

One of the most popular liposuction techniques, PAL uses a motorised cannula to break down unwanted fat to be easily extracted by vacuum suction. The CREO Clinic prefers this method as it reduces the effort required on the part of the surgeon and can remove larger quantities of fat than traditional liposuction.  It is also excellent  for use in patients who have previously undergone liposuction, and for fat transfer or fat grafting procedures, as it ensures minimal damage to the extracted fat cells.

Radiofrequency Assisted Liposuction (BodyTite)

BodyTite harnesses the power of radiofrequency (RF) energy to heat and melt fat deposits before removal. The BodyTite probe applies RF energy from above the skin while the cannula is inserted through a very small incision – this process not only breaks down fat for removal, but also creates skin tightening effects that can address loose skin.

Ultrasound Assisted Liposuction (Vaser)

Vaser is extremely effective at targeting fat cells, then using ultrasound energy to break down and remove fat deposits. High-frequency sound waves are delivered to the layers of fat, breaking them down without damaging the tissue surrounding it. This technique is well suited to smaller target areas, such as the backs of the arms, and is ideal for detailed body contouring. Vaser liposuction generally requires a shorter downtime than other techniques, and is preferred for fat transfer procedures – this is why our surgeons prefer to use this method.

What Areas Can Liposuction Target?

A key benefit of liposuction is its flexibility. The cosmetic surgery procedure can target the most stubborn fat deposits in multiple areas around the body, such as the abdomen, buttocks, hips and thighs, as well as smaller areas such as the backs of the arms and knees.

For patients considering treatments for the abdomen, take a look at our liposuction vs tummy tuck blog to better understand which is right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Weight Can You Lose With Liposuction?

It is important to note that liposuction is not a weight loss procedure, but rather a technique to improve contour and reduce fat deposits that are resistant to lifestyle changes. The weight lost during liposuction is not significant – the maximum amount of fat that can be removed is around 5 litres (approximately 5kg).

Who Is Suitable For A Liposuction Procedure?

Any adult with concerns about excess fat deposits around the body can be a good candidate for liposuction. Candidates must have a BMI of 35 or below (use our BMI checker to get your current BMI), be in good physical and mental health, and have realistic expectations about the results liposuction can achieve.

What Is The Most Effective Type of Liposuction?

How effective certain types of liposuction will be for you depends greatly on your aesthetic needs. Each liposuction technique – PAL, Vaser or BodyTite – can offer its own advantages, so be clear about your aesthetic priorities during your initial consultation. 

Our surgeon prefers PAL liposuction as it causes minimal damage to the surrounding tissues, can remove larger quantities of fat, and is best suited for fat transfer procedures.

What Is The Recovery Time For Liposuction Procedures?

Recovery from liposuction varies from patient to patient, but most feel comfortable returning to light activities and office work after a few days. A full daily routine including more strenuous exercise can be resumed after 2-3 weeks. 

A compression garment will need to be worn for six weeks after the procedure to keep swelling to a minimum – after 12 weeks you should make a full recovery.

Schedule Your Liposuction Consultation with CREO Clinic Today

Contact the CREO Clinic and book in an initial consultation to find out which liposuction will help you remodel and contour your physique. 

Our expert body contouring surgeon has performed countless successful liposuction treatments on patients with a variety of needs. In their care, you can feel confident you are in the hands of skilled and experienced practitioners.