What is Liposuction?
Liposuction (suction-assisted lipectomy) removes localised fatty deposits through small incisions, using a fine cannula connected to a vacuum. It is designed to sculpt a smoother, more defined body contour by targeting areas where fat is resistant to diet and exercise — most commonly the abdomen, flanks, thighs, hips, back, arms and neck.
Liposuction is not a treatment for obesity or a general weight-loss procedure. The best results are achieved in patients who are at or near their target weight but have specific localised deposits that remain despite a healthy lifestyle. The procedure permanently removes fat cells from the treated area, although maintaining a stable weight is important for preserving the result long-term.
Mr. Blackburn is certified by the Intercollegiate Cosmetic Surgery Board in cosmetic body contouring, and approaches liposuction with the same precision and aesthetic judgement that defines his broader practice. He performs a careful preoperative assessment of each patient's fat distribution, skin quality and goals to ensure that liposuction — rather than abdominoplasty or another procedure — is the right approach, and to plan the areas of treatment for the most natural, balanced result.
Suitable Areas for Treatment
Liposuction can address most areas where localised fat deposits occur. The most commonly treated areas in women include the abdomen, flanks, inner and outer thighs, hips and arms. In men, the most frequent concerns are the abdomen, flanks (love handles), chest and neck. Combined treatment of multiple areas in a single operation is possible where the overall volume to be removed and operative time remain safe.
In male patients, liposuction of the chest is often performed alongside or instead of glandular excision for gynaecomastia — addressing the fatty component of enlarged breast tissue and blending the chest contour more broadly.
Liposuction and Abdominoplasty
Liposuction removes fat but does not address excess skin or laxity of the abdominal wall muscles. For patients with significant skin laxity, loose post-pregnancy skin, or a separated abdominal wall (diastasis recti), abdominoplasty will typically produce a better result. Many patients benefit from a combination: liposuction of the flanks alongside abdominoplasty of the central abdomen. Mr. Blackburn will advise clearly at consultation which approach is most appropriate for each individual's anatomy.
Recovery
Liposuction is performed under general anaesthesia and is usually a day case procedure. A compression garment is worn for four to six weeks to support the healing tissues and minimise swelling. Most patients return to desk-based work within one to two weeks. Exercise is avoided for six weeks. Final results, including full resolution of swelling and any bruising, are typically visible at three to six months.
- Abdomen, flanks, thighs, hips, arms and neck commonly treated
- Permanent removal of fat cells from treated areas
- Day case procedure — home the same day
- ICSB-certified specialist in cosmetic body contouring
- Can be combined with abdominoplasty or gynaecomastia surgery
- New Victoria Hospital Kingston & Mount Alvernia Guildford