Leg Liposuction with BodyJet by Anthony MacQuillan
Leg liposuction or Thigh Liposuction stands out as a good option for those looking to refine their silhouette and enhance the shape of their legs. This procedure is subtle yet impactful and offers a tailored approach to fat reduction, targeting the stubborn areas that often resist traditional weight loss efforts.
Leg Liposuction is more than just a surgical intervention; it’s a pathway to achieving a harmonious body contour, where the goal is not only to remove unwanted fat but also to sculpt and define the legs, bringing them into better proportion with the rest of the body.
Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anthony MacQuillan performs Leg and Thigh Liposuction for his patients to help them get the body they want.
1 to 2 hours
Local or general
Day or 1 night
4 to 6 weeks
Most patients notice a dramatic improvement by 3 to 6 months, but it can take up to a full year to see the final results.
What is Leg Liposuction?
Leg Liposuction or Thigh Liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to remove unwanted fat from the legs, enhancing their shape and contour. This technique is particularly effective for targeting fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise, offering a solution for individuals seeking to refine the appearance of their thighs, knees, and calves. By focusing on these specific areas, Leg Liposuction aims to achieve a more proportionate and aesthetically appealing lower body silhouette.
The procedure involves the use of a thin tube, known as a cannula, which is inserted through small incisions made in the skin. The cannula is then moved back and forth to loosen the fat before it is suctioned out of the body. This process not only reduces fat volume but also allows for strategic contouring of the leg, resulting in a more toned and defined appearance. Leg Liposuction can be performed as a standalone procedure or in conjunction with other cosmetic surgeries to achieve overall body reshaping.
One of the key advantages of Leg Liposuction is its ability to target and remove fat from areas that are often difficult to address through conventional weight loss methods. This specificity enables you to achieve targeted improvements, enhancing the natural lines and shape of the legs. Furthermore, modern advancements in liposuction techniques, such as Body Jet system, have improved the procedure’s efficiency, safety, and recovery time, making it a popular choice for those looking to enhance their lower body aesthetics.
Who Needs Leg Liposuction?
Leg liposuction is tailored for individuals who aim to refine the shape and contour of their legs. It’s an ideal solution for those who, despite maintaining a healthy lifestyle, struggle with localised fat deposits in their legs that are resistant to both diet and exercise. Understanding who qualifies as a candidate for this surgery is crucial for ensuring optimal outcomes and satisfaction with the procedure.
Ideal Candidates for Leg Liposuction:
- Healthy Adults: Ideal candidates are generally healthy adults with stable body weight. Being close to your ideal weight but with specific areas of fat accumulation on the legs is key.
- Elastic Skin: Good skin elasticity is important because it allows the skin to contract smoothly over the new leg contours after the fat has been removed. Those with firmer, more elastic skin tend to achieve the best results.
- Non-smokers: Smoking can impede the healing process; therefore, non-smokers or those who can quit smoking well in advance of the surgery are better candidates.
- Realistic Expectations: Understanding what Leg Liposuction can and cannot achieve is vital. It’s designed for body contouring, not significant weight loss.
- Persistent Fat Deposits: Individuals who have fat deposits on the legs that do not respond to exercise and diet are ideal candidates. These areas might include the thighs (inner and outer), around the knees, or the calves.
Who Might Not Be a Suitable Candidate:
- Significant Weight Fluctuations: People who experience significant weight fluctuations may not achieve lasting results from liposuction, as weight gain post-surgery can alter the outcomes.
- Severe Circulatory Issues: Those with circulatory problems or certain medical conditions may face increased risks during and after the surgery.
- Unrealistic Expectations: Understanding the limitations of the procedure is crucial. It is not a solution for cellulite or a substitute for weight loss.
Benefits of the Leg Liposuction Procedure
Leg liposuction offers a range of benefits for those seeking to improve the appearance and shape of their legs. Here, we outline the key benefits that make Leg Liposuction an appealing choice for eligible candidates:
Improved Leg Contour and Shape
- Targeted Fat Reduction: One of the primary benefits of Leg Liposuction is the ability to precisely target and remove stubborn fat deposits from specific areas of the legs, such as the thighs, knees, and calves.
- Enhanced Leg Contour: By removing excess fat, Leg Liposuction can enhance the natural contours of the legs, resulting in a more toned and proportionate lower body appearance.
- Better Definition: For many, the procedure can help achieve a more defined leg shape, highlighting muscle tone and the natural curves of the legs.
Increased Clothing Options
- Fit and Comfort: The removal of excess leg fat can make clothing fit better and more comfortably, opening up a wider range of clothing options, including tailored trousers, skirts, and fitted dresses.
- Style Choices: Many individuals find that after Leg Liposuction, they feel more confident exploring different styles and trends that they may have previously avoided.
Physical Comfort and Mobility
- Reduced Chafing: Excess fat on the inner thighs can lead to discomfort and chafing. Liposuction can alleviate these issues, improving physical comfort during activities.
- Enhanced Mobility: In some cases, reducing the volume of the legs can improve mobility and ease of movement, particularly during exercise and other physical activities.
Psychological and Emotional Benefits
- Increased Satisfaction: Achieving desired leg aesthetics can significantly boost overall satisfaction with one’s body image.
- Confidence Boost: Many individuals report a boost in confidence following Leg Liposuction, stemming from their enhanced appearance and the ability to wear a broader range of clothing styles.
Long-Lasting Results
- Durability of Results: The fat cells removed during liposuction do not grow back, making the results potentially long-lasting, provided a stable weight is maintained post-procedure.
How is the Leg Liposuction Procedure Performed
Leg Liposuction is a detailed procedure that requires precision and expertise. The process can vary slightly depending on the specific technique used, but the core steps generally remain consistent. Here’s an overview of how the Leg Liposuction procedure is performed:
Consultation and Planning
- Initial Assessment: The process begins with a thorough consultation, where Anthony evaluates your health, discusses their aesthetic goals, and determines the most suitable technique.
- Mapping: Anthony then maps out the areas on the legs where fat will be removed. This planning is crucial for achieving a balanced and natural-looking result.
Preparation
- Anaesthesia: Depending on the extent of the procedure, Leg Liposuction may be performed under local or general anaesthesia. The choice of anaesthesia ensures your comfort throughout the procedure.
- Sterilisation: The targeted areas are cleaned and sterilised to minimise the risk of infection.
The Procedure
- Incision: Small incisions are made near the areas of fat removal. These incisions are typically just a few millimeters long and are strategically placed to minimise visible scarring.
- Fat Removal: Anthony uses the Body Jet system for Leg Liposuction. This method employs innovative water-jet technology, utilising bursts of saline tumescent water to disintegrate fat cells and detach them from adjacent tissues.
- Contouring: Anthony carefully sculpts the area to achieve a smooth, natural-looking leg contour, paying close attention to symmetry and proportion.
- Closure: Once the desired amount of fat has been removed and the legs are sculpted to satisfaction, the incisions are closed with sutures if necessary. In many cases, incisions are small enough to heal without sutures.
Post-Procedure
- Immediate Care: Compression garments are applied to the treated areas to help reduce swelling and support the new leg contours as they heal.
- Recovery: You are moved to a recovery area where they are monitored until they are ready to go home. Detailed aftercare instructions are provided, covering everything from pain management to activity restrictions.
Recovery after Leg Liposuction Procedure
While the recovery process can vary based on the extent of the procedure, the technique used, and individual healing rates, there are common stages and guidelines that you can expect.
Immediate Post-Procedure Care
- Rest and Monitoring: Immediately following the procedure, you are observed in a recovery area. Once stable, they can go home, often on the same day.
- Compression Garments: You are required to wear compression garments for several weeks. These garments help reduce swelling, support the healing tissues, and assist in contouring the legs.
The First Few Days
- Pain and Discomfort: Mild to moderate pain, swelling, and bruising are common but manageable with prescribed pain medication and rest.
- Limited Mobility: You are encouraged to walk around as soon as possible to promote circulation, but strenuous activities should be avoided.
Weeks 1-4
- Gradual Improvement: Swelling and bruising will gradually decrease. You can return to work and normal daily activities within a few days to a week, depending on the nature of their job and the extent of the liposuction.
- Follow-up Visits: Follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring progress and addressing any concerns.
Long-term Recovery
- Exercise: Light exercise can often be resumed after a few weeks, but it’s important to get approval from Anthony before undertaking any vigorous activities.
- Final Results: The full effects of Leg Liposuction may take several months to become evident as the body continues to heal and swelling subsides.
How Much Is Liposuction Surgery in the UK?
The total cost of Liposuction Surgery in the UK depends on the type of procedure being performed and the duration of the procedure. Liposuction can range from £2,500 to £12,500.
These prices are influenced by the surgeon’s training & experience, the complexity of the operation, the type of anaesthesia, the facility used and the post-op and follow-up care you receive. It’s also important to ensure that all these necessary items are listed on the quote you receive.
FAQs
Find out more about your surgical journey
How long does it take to see results from Leg Liposuction?
While you may notice a difference in the shape of your legs immediately after surgery, the final results typically take several months to become fully visible. This timeline allows for the reduction of post-operative swelling and for the skin and tissues to adjust to their new contours. You can see significant improvements within 3 to 6 months, with continued subtle improvements up to a year post-surgery.
Is the fat removal permanent?
The fat cells removed during Leg Liposuction are permanently eliminated from the body. However, it’s important to maintain a stable weight post-procedure to preserve the results. Significant weight gain can lead to the enlargement of remaining fat cells, potentially altering the achieved contours.
Will Leg Liposuction help reduce cellulite?
Leg Liposuction is primarily designed to remove excess fat and improve the contour of the legs, not to address cellulite. While you may notice a reduction in the appearance of cellulite following the procedure, the primary aim of liposuction is fat removal, and it may not significantly impact skin texture.
Can Leg Liposuction be combined with other procedures?
Yes, Leg Liposuction can be combined with other cosmetic procedures for superior body contouring results. Common combinations include Tummy Tuck, Thigh Lift, or Breast Augmentation. Combining procedures can maximise the aesthetic outcome and reduce overall recovery time compared to having multiple separate surgeries. The decision to combine procedures should be carefully considered and discussed with Anthony to ensure safety and suitability.
What are risks of Leg Liposuction procedure?
While Leg Liposuction is generally considered safe, especially when performed by a qualified and experienced cosmetic surgeon, it is not without its risks. Being informed about potential complications is important for anyone considering this procedure.
Surgical Risks
- Infection: Though rare, there is a risk of infection at the incision sites. Strict adherence to post-operative care instructions can minimise this risk.
- Bleeding: Some bleeding is expected during and after Liposuction, but excessive bleeding can occur in rare cases.
- Anaesthesia Risks: As with any procedure requiring anaesthesia, there are risks involved, including allergic reactions and respiratory issues.
Post-Operative Complications
- Swelling and Bruising: While these are normal and expected, in some cases, they can be more severe and last longer than anticipated.
- Numbness: Temporary numbness or changes in skin sensation can occur in the treated areas. This usually resolves over time.
- Fluid Accumulation: Seromas or hematomas, which are pockets of fluid or blood, can form under the skin. These may require drainage.
Aesthetic Concerns
- Irregular Contouring: Uneven fat removal or poor skin elasticity can lead to lumpy or uneven skin surfaces.
- Scarring: Small scars at the incision sites are inevitable, but they typically fade over time. The skill of Anthony plays a significant role in minimising visible scarring.
- Skin Discoloration: Temporary or, in rare cases, permanent skin discolouration can occur.
Long-term Risks
- Fat Embolism: Fat particles can enter the bloodstream and lodge in the lungs or brain, a rare but serious condition.
- Changes in Skin Tightness: While some techniques can help tighten the skin, in some cases, the skin may not contract as expected, leading to a saggy appearance.
- Need for Revision Surgery: In some instances, unsatisfactory results or complications may necessitate additional surgery.
Medical References about Leg Liposuction
- Advances in Liposuction: Five Key Principles with Emphasis on Patient Safety and Outcomes
- 2022 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report – American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Concepts, safety, and techniques in body-contouring surgery – Cleveland Clinic
- Liposuction – American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Body-Jet Worth it? Reviews, Cost, Pictures – RealSelf.com
Reviews
Patient satisfaction is the top priority for Anthony. You can find how patients feel about his work below.I am thrilled with my results!
I underwent a breast lift and tummy tuck with muscle repair and liposuction to my flanks with Anthony Macquillan in January 2019 I am thrilled with my results!
Anthony is an excellent surgeon – very realistic about what he can achieve and very skilled. An added bonus is that he is a thoroughly nice man
I would not hesitate to go to him again for further surgery or indeed to recommend him to anyone
I have just been to see Anthony MacQuillan today for my six week follow up appointment. Six weeks ago, Anthony performed an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), repairing my separated abdominal muscles, removing my wobbly mum tum and liposuction following two pregnancies.
My last pregnancy was 19 years ago so I have reluctantly lived with it since then!
The results are truly amazing. For the first time, I have a flat tummy and the confidence to wear what I like.
Mr MacQuillan thoroughly explained the procedure at my initial consultation, as well as the potential hazards. He has been professional, understanding and kind to me at all times. I have sailed through to this six week point with no medical problems at all. However, I would say that I massively underestimated the recovery process at home and I have been fairly incapacitated for the first four weeks. I only now feel able to start resuming my normal daily activities. Of course, someone else may find the recovery easier than I have.
I would not hesitate to recommend Anthony MacQuillan to anyone. He is a gifted surgeon in my opinion. He also appears to be very popular with the nursing staff at The Spire too! I guess that’s the best praise possible!
Thank you also to Anthony’s Secretary, Mandy. Always helpful and kind.
I hope this review helps someone to go ahead with their tummy tuck surgery dream with Mr MacQuillan – you won’t regret it!
27 Y/o. 150lb Weight Loss Left Excess Skin. Tummy Tuck, Breast Lift/augmentation, Armlift and Lipo
4 years ago I reached the biggest I had ever been in my life, I weighed over 23 stone (approx 320lb/145kg). I not only was at my heaviest but I was also at my lowest; I stayed at home all day, and worked from home, and just ate. After trying to change my life by losing weight the old fashioned way my knees started to go and my back would constantly hurt from just walking. I gave up and got worse.
…Until my sister became pregnant and I got worried that I would die before he graduated. I booked myself in for a gastric band. I have since lost 11 stone 7 lb in the last 3 years but I have serious amounts of excess skin that I need to get rid of. I have taken to wearing a lovely piece of ‘sucky in’ underwear every day as the skin just jiggles and is highly annoying and unflattering. I also will never, ever, under any circumstances have my arms out as I am scared I may just take off.
I have booked a consultation with a group that was recommended to me by a friend and will find out my options on 29/03/16. I am going in with the view on arm lift, lower body lift and potentially a breast augmentation, as the ‘fun bags’ are more like empty bags now. I miss my boobs. I don’t want to get a thigh lift though, they’re also a little jiggly but with tights or leggings on they’re sucked in enough and quite honestly I always had little, out of proportion, legs.
I have this strange feeling of excitement and fear about my consultation. It will hurt, I’m aware, this terrifies me. I will probably also look a little like Frankenstein’s bride, though I can always tattoo over the scars if they bother me that greatly. I need to do this though, this is the last step I need to take to the goal I have been working on for 3/4 years.
I’m hoping that someone out there has been through a similar thing and can give advice!
Updated on 29 Mar 2016:
I had my initial consultation today. Didn’t get the news I exactly wanted to hear. I may not be able to get it all done at once, which puts a massive cog in the works as I only have limited time before I never truly get time off work again!
I have two options now, the surgeon local to me for consultations and check-ups who cannot/will not combine more that 2 procedures or the surgeon I have to travel 3+ hours for who is more open to combining procedures. The plan is now to send over some pictures to both surgeons to get their initial opinions, discuss who is best suited for the job and book my next consultation. I’m swaying towards the far away surgeon, partially as he is nicknamed ‘the god of surgery’ by his patients on the company’s forums but that all could change.
Updated on 12 Jun 2016:
I’m 27, 5’5 and have lost around 150lb. My weight loss has left me with serious excess skin which thanks to this website I will be getting removed in July. I have been lurking on this website for awhile now; looking at the before & after pictures, reading peoples stories and building the courage to finally get it done myself.
After several consultations with several surgeons I am happy with the surgeon I have chosen. After my meeting a few weeks ago we have decided upon a tummy tuck, breast lift, breast augmentation (I miss my old boobs), liposuction and arm lift.
My next appointment is on June 15th; surgery is on July 16th.
Sadly I have already started packing.
Updated on 17 Jul 2016:
Surgery day
I didn’t sleep the night before, so when the alarm went off at 5am I was shattered. After an hour drive I arrived at the hospital with my partner and dad for moral support (and to carry bags).
The staff made me feel very comfortable from the outset and I was told I was heading down to surgery in an hour! Swiftly, Ian Thomas, my anesthesiologist, came in to check some details and to introduce himself. He gave me the lowdown of what was expected to happen and told me that Anthony MacQuillan would soon be in.
And soon it was indeed. I was intricately doodled on and every step of the procedure was explained along the way. I felt like I was completely aware of what was going to happen to me. Which was a great relief.
Next thing I knew I was out the door, saying my goodbyes and ‘I love yous’, and getting on the lift. Mr Thomas made me feel very comfortable as he put me under, my nervousness disappeared pretty quickly as he talked to me.
…10 hours later I was in recovery surrounded by people and feeling rather sick. Everyone did an amazing job making me feel comfortable and even surprising me with the news that my dad had waiting around the entire time for me. Mr MacQuillan and Mr Thomas both came in to see me to let me know how everything went then I was taken back to my room.
I don’t remember much past that…
Day 1
Most of today I have been sleeping. The morphine has me sleeping through everything. I have had several visits from my surgeon and the other doctors, it’s lovely to feel like they are really here for you and care that you’re feeling alright. I can’t praise the nurses highly enough either, from painkillers to chats to keep my sanity, they have just been amazing.
Throughout the day I have been feeling much better. I felt so rough this morning that I couldn’t even hold my phone or swallow water really. Now I’ve had a lovely dinner and I’m texting away on my phone to family. My arms probably hurt the most, my tummy only hurts when I try sit up or shuffle around and my breasts just feel a little like constant pressure rather than pain.
I have already had two drains removed from my arms, I can now move them properly! However, that was after the horrible ordeal of having to get out of bed. That was agony. Hopefully tomorrow won’t be so bad when I have to do the same again…
Updated on 18 Jul 2016:
Today was much better. I didn’t feel sick when I stood up. I wasn’t in complete agony when getting comfortable in bed. I haven’t even used my morphine pump much. Feeling more human again!
Updated on 19 Jul 2016:
Today has been the best day so far. Been able to get out of bed with no help. Morphine pump has been taken away. Had the catheter and the last 4 drains removed. Never have I been so proud to go pee on my own!
Now I am untethered and off the strong stuff I have officially been given the okay to go home tomorrow. Binders and dressing changed will be on first thing in the morning before getting loaded with morphine to take the edge off the journey home. Can’t wait!
I haven’t seen the full effects of the surgery yet because the mirror is high up and quite small, plus the fact I’m hunched over like a 139 year old. From the picture I’ve seen my boobs look mental, but that’s expected this early and I look a little boxy and square. I don’t know whether it is the swelling making me boxy or that is my natural shape, either way it doesn’t matter to me. Getting the surgery at all was the icing on the weight loss cake, being curvy would’ve just been the sprinkles. I’m thrilled with the results thus far.
Updated on 21 Jul 2016:
My PS came to see me again yesterday. Apparently I’m healing very well! My dressings were all changed and not a single stitch has come away, which is a surprise considering how much I had done.
I am home now, the journey home wasn’t terrible and apart from the AWFUL back pain from being so hunched over all the time I’m doing okay.
Updated on 28 Jul 2016:
Pictures from 2 week post op (Saturday 23rd). Walking for more than 5 minutes hurts my back as I’m so hunched over. I can’t get myself dressed or cook my own food. It is getting frustrating.
Along with the massive swelling that still makes me feel fat I have the biggest bruise I have ever seen in my life. I was briefly concerned it was a hematoma that would need to be drained b mutual my PS said it’s not a concern.
Why Choose Anthony MacQuillan for Your Leg and Thigh Liposuction
Anthony’s unwavering commitment to precision and personalized care ensures that your Leg/ Thigh Liposuction procedure will be meticulously tailored to meet your unique needs and aesthetic goals. Our clinic seamlessly integrates advanced surgical techniques with a compassionate approach to patient care, providing a supportive and comforting experience from initial consultation to post-operative recovery.
To explore further how our Leg or Thigh Liposuction procedure can help you attain your desired aesthetic, or to schedule a consultation with Anthony, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.
Further Reading about Body Surgery with Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anthony MacQuillan
Read more about surgeries that Anthony preforms, including;