Can Liposuction Be Performed Under Local Anaesthetic?

Table of Contents Liposuction Under Local Anaesthetic Benefits of Local Anaesthetic Liposuction Is Local Anaesthetic Liposuction Right for Everyone? Safety and Effectiveness of Awake Liposuction Common Areas Treated With Local Anaesthetic Liposuction Recovery and Aftercare Following Local Anaesthetic Liposuction How Long Do Results Last? Frequently Asked Questions About Liposuction Under Local Anaesthetic Why Choose Centre for Surgery Start your journey with us today Can Liposuction Be Performed Under Local Anaesthetic Liposuction has long been one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures in the UK, helping men and women refine their body shape by removing stubborn fat deposits that do not respond to diet or exercise. Many people associate liposuction with general anaesthesia and long recovery times, but modern medical advances have made it possible to perform liposuction safely and comfortably under local anaesthetic. This development has transformed how patients approach body contouring, offering a more convenient and less invasive experience. At Centre for Surgery, we perform a wide range of liposuction procedures in our state-of-the-art Baker Street private hospital using the latest techniques and anaesthetic methods for your safety and comfort. Our highly skilled surgeons specialise in procedures under local anaesthetic, allowing patients to achieve remarkable body contouring results with minimal downtime. Liposuction Under Local Anaesthetic Liposuction under local anaesthetic, sometimes referred to as awake liposuction, involves numbing the targeted area with a special tumescent solution containing local anaesthetic, adrenaline, and saline. This technique enables the surgeon to remove unwanted fat while the patient remains awake but fully comfortable. Unlike traditional liposuction performed under general anaesthetic, patients do not require hospital admission or an overnight stay. The procedure begins with small incisions through which the tumescent solution is infused, causing the area to become firm and swollen. This makes the fat easier to extract and reduces bleeding. The surgeon then inserts a fine cannula to gently break up and suction out fat cells. Because the local anaesthetic numbs the area thoroughly, patients usually feel only mild pressure or movement rather than pain. Benefits of Local Anaesthetic Liposuction One of the main advantages of liposuction under local anaesthetic is its safety profile. By avoiding general anaesthesia, patients eliminate many of the potential risks and side effects associated with being asleep during surgery. Recovery is typically faster, with most individuals returning to their daily routines within a few days. Patients also appreciate being awake and aware throughout the process. Many find it reassuring to communicate with their surgeon in real time and even adjust positioning to help achieve optimal contouring. The reduction in post-operative discomfort is another key benefit, as the local anaesthetic continues to provide pain relief for several hours after the procedure. Swelling and bruising are generally less pronounced, and because the technique is more precise, surgeons can target smaller areas such as the chin, neck, arms, flanks, or inner thighs with great accuracy. Is Local Anaesthetic Liposuction Right for Everyone? Although liposuction under local anaesthetic is suitable for many patients, it is not ideal for everyone. The best candidates are individuals close to their ideal body weight who struggle with localised fat deposits that do not improve with healthy eating or regular exercise. Patients seeking large-volume fat removal or those requiring extensive contouring may still be better suited to procedures under general anaesthesia, which allow the surgeon to treat multiple areas more efficiently. During your consultation at Centre for Surgery, your surgeon will carry out a thorough assessment to determine the most appropriate anaesthetic approach based on your medical history, goals, and the extent of treatment required. Safety and Effectiveness of Awake Liposuction Safety is always the top priority in cosmetic surgery. Liposuction performed under local anaesthetic has an excellent safety record when carried out by experienced surgeons in a regulated clinical environment. At Centre for Surgery, we adhere to the highest medical standards and use advanced equipment designed specifically for ultrasound-assisted liposuction. Because patients remain awake, the body’s natural reflexes stay active, which further enhances safety. The tumescent technique also minimises bleeding, making the procedure cleaner and more controlled. The effectiveness of local anaesthetic liposuction matches that of traditional methods when performed on appropriate candidates, producing smooth, natural-looking results and improved body contours. Common Areas Treated With Local Anaesthetic Liposuction Common Liposuction Areas This approach is particularly effective for small to medium treatment zones. Many patients choose to target areas such as the chin, jowls, neck, upper arms, abdomen, love handles, flanks, inner and outer thighs, and knees. Each area can be treated in a focused session lasting between one and two hours, depending on the volume of fat to be removed. By performing the procedure under local anaesthetic, surgeons can work more precisely, sculpting and refining the body’s natural shape with minimal trauma. Patients often notice a visible difference within days, with results continuing to improve over the following weeks as swelling subsides. Recovery and Aftercare Following Local Anaesthetic Liposuction liposuction recovery uk Recovery after liposuction performed under local anaesthetic is generally swift and straightforward. Because there is no general anaesthetic involved, patients can usually return home shortly after the procedure. Mild swelling, bruising, or tenderness in the treated area is normal but typically subsides within a few days. Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions, which may include wearing a compression garment to help reduce swelling and support your new body shape. Most patients can return to light daily activities within 24 to 48 hours, although strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least two weeks. At Centre for Surgery, our aftercare programme includes regular follow-up appointments to ensure your healing is progressing smoothly and that your results continue to improve over time. How Long Do Results Last? The results of liposuction are permanent, as the fat cells removed do not grow back. However, maintaining a stable weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise is crucial to preserve your new shape. Should you gain weight after the procedure, remaining fat cells can still expand, potentially altering your results. Patients who follow healthy lifestyle habits typically enjoy long-lasting improvements in their body contour. Our surgeons provide personalised advice on maintaining your results and overall wellbeing after your treatment. Frequently Asked Questions About Liposuction Under Local Anaesthetic Liposuction FAQs - Q&A about Liposuction Surgery Is the procedure painful? Patients undergoing liposuction under local anaesthetic generally experience minimal discomfort. The tumescent solution numbs the area completely, and most people describe the sensation as pressure rather than pain. How long does the procedure take? The duration depends on the size of the treatment area, but most sessions last between one and two hours. Because no general anaesthetic is used, there is no extended recovery time in hospital. Can multiple areas be treated in one session? Yes, although the number of areas that can be treated safely under local anaesthetic depends on the volume of fat removed and the patient’s tolerance. Your surgeon will discuss the best approach for your goals during consultation. Are there any risks? As with all surgical procedures, there are some risks, such as temporary swelling, bruising, or uneven contours. However, serious complications are extremely rare when the surgery is performed by qualified plastic surgeons in a regulated medical environment. When will I see the results? Most patients notice an immediate improvement in their body shape, but final results typically become apparent after swelling has completely subsided, usually within six to eight weeks. Can I drive home after the procedure? Many patients feel well enough to go home shortly after the treatment, though it is recommended that someone accompanies you for comfort and safety on the day of surgery. How soon can I return to work? Most people can return to light work within two days, depending on the extent of treatment and individual healing. Is liposuction under local anaesthetic cheaper? Generally, procedures performed under local anaesthetic are more cost-effective because they avoid the expenses associated with hospital admission and anaesthetist fees. Centre for Surgery provides transparent price guides to help you understand costs in advance. Why Choose Centre for Surgery Centre for Surgery is a leading private plastic surgery clinic based in the heart of London, at 95-97 Baker Street. We are home to some of the UK’s most experienced plastic surgeons, specialising in advanced body contouring procedures performed under both local and general anaesthetic. Our commitment to patient safety, surgical precision, and natural-looking results sets us apart. Our purpose-built facility features fully equipped operating theatres and recovery areas designed specifically for cosmetic surgery. Every procedure is carried out under the strictest safety protocols, ensuring the highest level of care at every stage of your journey. We believe in providing personalised treatment plans tailored to your individual goals, supported by comprehensive aftercare and ongoing patient support. Patient testimonials “The team at Centre for Surgery made me feel completely at ease throughout my procedure. I was amazed at how comfortable I felt under local anaesthetic and thrilled with my results.” – Sarah, London “My experience with the surgeons and nurses was outstanding. The recovery was quick, and I felt looked after every step of the way.” – Michael, Surrey “From consultation to aftercare, everything was professional and friendly. I would not hesitate to recommend Centre for Surgery to anyone considering liposuction.” – Amelia, Kent For more information about our approach to patient care, visit our About Us page. Meet our highly qualified surgical team on the Team Member page and explore real patient transformations in our Before & After Photos. Learn more about treatment preparation through our FAQs & Guides, discover flexible Finance Options, and read our Plastic Surgery Blog for insights from our experts. You can also find answers to common clinic questions in our Clinic FAQs and discover more about our facilities at our Baker Street Clinic. To book a consultation or speak with a member of our team, call 0207 993 4849 or email contact@centreforsurgery.com. Centre for Surgery 95-97 Baker Street London W1U 6RN Start your journey with us today If you have a question about a treatment, or you would like to find out more about how we can help you, call us on 0207 993 4849 or fill in the form below and one of our patient care coordinators will contact you to book a consultation with a specialist practitioner