How long does liposuction surgery take?

The time it takes to perform liposuction surgery will largely depend on what area we are treating and how much fat we are removing.

A small chin liposuction procedure, for example, may take 30 minutes, whilst treatment for the hips and thighs may take two to three hours.

You are looking at a few appointments for one liposuction procedure:

1. Initial consultation with Dr Rich of an hour
2. Appointment for blood tests, ‘before’ photographs, consent form, after-care pack, instructions for the big day, which takes about an hour and another conversation with Dr Rich
3. The big day – liposuction procedure is performed – time depends on the treatment area
4. Post-surgery appointment to ensure everything is going according to plan – 30 minutes to an hour

Dr Michael Rich – precise and efficient

At ENRICH Clinic, your liposuction practitioner is Dr Michael Rich. Dr Rich is a liposuction expert with over 30 years in the business under his belt. Your treatments, with Dr Rich at the helm, will be efficient and precise.

The liposuction treatment overview – appointment #1

Seeing if liposuction is right for you

When you come in for your first consult, you’ll be speaking with Dr Rich and one of our nurses or consultants. You’ll get to see photos of others who have come before you for similar procedures and Dr Rich will talk to you about your expectations and what he can realistically do for you.

This appointment is where you are assessed and can discuss your goals.

The liposuction treatment overview – appointment #2

Talking it over and question time

You’ll sit down with Dr Rich & one of our nurses  to discuss your procedure at all your appointments. You can always ask questions, talk through anything you don’t understand, and get the rundown of what’s about to happen. Asking questions is very important.

‘Before’ photos

We take ‘before’ and ‘after’ photos, so there is an accurate comparison once you’ve healed. It can sometimes be hard to see what’s happened, so having photographic evidence is useful.

Blood tests

We need to do some tests on you to make sure the procedure is suitable for you; these are often performed at the second appointment, with your photos and consent form.

The consent form – read it! (and sign it)

The consent form is essential and includes some great information. Please read it. Take your time – this is your treatment, and it’s crucial that you know about your treatment and all that goes with it beforehand. You will also see Dr Rich again to answer any questions you may have had in the interim.

The liposuction treatment overview – appointment #3

We know you’re nervous – we’ll take care of you

Don’t worry; we know you’ll be nervous! Liposuction is a big deal. Our staff are incredibly friendly, and we’ll make sure you’re as comfortable as possible.

You pay for your liposuction procedure on the day. Your initial quote will outline all the costs after your first consultation.

Theatre day

When you arrive at the day surgery , you will be given a gown to get changed into and taken into the operating room where the surgery will happen. Dr Rich will draw on you in red and green ink, and you’ll receive a relaxant and pain relief.

Once you’re in position, and everything has the green light to go ahead, the first part of your procedure will begin. First, we’ll make some small incisions in the treatment area, and Dr Rich injects a special fluid – tumescent fluid, to provide the anaesthetic.

Then, the suction will start. Dr Rich uses a gentle, precise fanning motion to get the right amount of fat out from under your skin. The ‘right’ amount depends on what your goals are, which varies between people. The suctioning element may take a little longer, since the more fat removed, the longer it takes.

If you are getting more than one area worked on, the process repeats, possibly on both sides of the hips or thighs, arms, calves or waist. Often both sides of the body will require identical treatments.

Once the treatment is complete, we drain the area of the tumescent fluid and any other fluids (like blood) that may have accumulated.

You will be cleaned up and walked through your compression garment use. You will be monitored for a little while to make sure you’re recovery is going well and everything is stable. Then, you can go home and relax. An adult needs to drive you home and stay with you for 24 hours, so make arrangements with your sleepover buddy.

For more scientific research into liposuction, see this review.

Do I need to take time off work for the procedure?

It depends, but you will most likely need to plan time off your daily activities, including work. If you are only having a small amount of liposuction done, for example, chin liposuction, then you may not have to take any time off work. If you are getting more extensive liposuction, you will need a couple of rest days at home. You’ll be a little sore and swollen.

It can be ideal to book your liposuction on a day when you will either usually have two days off in a row. Add a couple of days leave, and you get a long weekend (or equivalent). If your job requires standing up for long periods and you’ve had liposuction on your mid or lower body, you may need to take more time away from work. Talk this over with Dr Rich so you can plan.

Can I care for others while I’m recovering?

Many of us have kids or parents who require care. It might be wise to consider your options for at least a couple of days if you are the primary carer or are expected to drive, carry kids or groceries, and other tasks.