Lipoplasty (Liposuction)

Liposuction, also known as lipoplasty, reshapes areas of the body affected by stubborn fat deposits that do not respond to diet or exercise. Many people maintain a healthy lifestyle yet still notice localised areas of fat influenced by genetics rather than weight alone.
Ms Tzafetta uses liposuction to refine body contours and improve proportion. The procedure does not aim to replace weight loss or fitness, but to address specific areas where fat persists despite best efforts.
When liposuction may help
You may consider liposuction if you feel concerned about localised fat deposits that affect shape or confidence, particularly in areas such as:
- abdomen and waist
- hips and buttocks
- thighs or inner knees
- arms
- back
- chest or breast area
- chin, neck or cheeks
- calves or ankles
Liposuction works best when skin tone is reasonably good, and body weight remains stable.
A considered approach to fat removal
Liposuction removes fat cells permanently, but it does not tighten loose skin or prevent future weight changes. For this reason, careful assessment matters.
Ms Tzafetta considers skin quality, fat distribution and how the area will look as it heals and settles. Her approach focuses on smooth, balanced contours rather than aggressive fat removal.
Liposuction techniques
Ms Tzafetta uses established, safe techniques tailored to each treatment area, including:
- Tumescent or super-wet liposuction, which involves introducing a saline solution to reduce bleeding and support gentle fat removal
- Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL), where ultrasound energy helps soften fat before removal in selected cases
She selects the technique based on anatomy, treatment area and safety considerations.
Liposuction surgery
During liposuction, Ms Tzafetta makes small, discreet incisions in natural skin creases. She introduces a fine cannula (thin tube) to loosen fat and remove it using controlled suction.
The procedure may take 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the number of areas treated and the volume removed. Liposuction can be performed under local anaesthetic, sedation, or general anaesthetic, depending on the extent of treatment.
Some procedures take place as day cases, while larger-volume treatments may require an overnight hospital stay.
Your liposuction consultation
Your consultation with Kalliroi Tzafetta allows for clear, realistic planning.
During this appointment, you can discuss any areas that concern you and the improvements you hope to see. Ms Tzafetta will:
- review your medical history and medications
- assess body contour, skin quality and fat distribution
- discuss realistic outcomes and limitations
- explain whether treatment should take place in one or more stages
- outline risks, recovery and return-to-activity guidance
This discussion helps ensure liposuction suits your body, goals and lifestyle.
Recovery and expectations
Recovery depends on the number of areas treated and the volume of fat removed.
Swelling, bruising and tenderness commonly appear in the first 1 to 2 weeks. Most people return to desk-based work within 1 to 2 weeks, depending on comfort and the visibility of bruising.
Physically demanding work or strenuous exercise usually resumes after 3 to 4 weeks. Ms Tzafetta often recommends wearing a compression garment for several weeks to reduce swelling and support healing.
Body contours continue to refine over 3 to 6 months as swelling settles and tissues adjust.
Liposuction provides long-lasting contour improvement when weight remains stable, but it does not prevent future fat accumulation elsewhere.
Understanding limitations
Liposuction does not tighten loose skin or treat cellulite. When skin elasticity remains limited, Ms Tzafetta may discuss alternative or additional procedures, such as skin excision or body contouring surgery. She will always recommend the option that offers the most balanced and durable outcome.
A specialist, measured approach
Under the care of Ms Tzafetta, liposuction centres on anatomical precision, proportion and safety.
Her background in reconstructive and aesthetic surgery supports a thoughtful approach that prioritises smooth contours and realistic expectations.
Liposuction FAQs
How long does liposuction surgery take?
Liposuction can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on how many areas are treated and how much fat is removed. Ms Tzafetta will explain the expected duration during the consultation.
How soon can I return to work?
Most people return to desk-based work within 1 to 2 weeks. Jobs involving physical activity may require 3 to 4 weeks before returning.
Will I need to wear a compression garment?
Yes. Ms Tzafetta usually recommends a compression garment for several weeks to reduce swelling and support healing.
Is liposuction painful?
Most people describe recovery as sore or uncomfortable rather than painful. Pain relief medication helps manage early discomfort.
Will liposuction help me lose weight?
Liposuction improves body shape rather than overall weight. It works best for people near their ideal weight with localised fat deposits.
Are the results permanent?
Fat cells removed during liposuction do not return. However, remaining fat cells can enlarge with weight gain, so maintaining a stable weight helps preserve results.
Can liposuction be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Ms Tzafetta often combines liposuction with procedures such as a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), breast surgery, or a facelift when this improves overall balance.
Who performs liposuction surgery?
Kalliroi Tzafetta performs liposuction with a focus on smooth contours, safety, and long-term outcomes.
When should I consider liposuction?
You may consider liposuction if localised fat affects how your body looks or feels despite a healthy lifestyle. A consultation with Ms Tzafetta can help clarify whether liposuction suits your goals.
Patient Experiences
Many people find it helpful to hear from others who have been through a similar experience. The reflections below share individual patient perspectives, offered to help you understand what care and recovery can feel like in practice.
Thank you for giving me my confidence back!
This doctor was extremely helpful, friendly, approachable and made me feel at ease. She understood my problems and gave me the best solution. I can’t thank her enough for the results that I’ve achieved, she has given me my confidence back.
I had an amazing experience and my surgery hasn’t been life changing
I had Abdominoplasty, liposuction and repair of internal muscles. Ms Tzafetta is not only highly professional but personable. She is a very talented surgeon as well as incredibly compassionate. Ms Tzafetta was very attentive and I was very well cared for during my time at Springfield Hospital.
Incredible Surgeon and So Lovely too!
I had liposuction under the Care of Ms Tzafetta at the Rivers Hospital. She was so lovely and caring, she did an incredible job with my legs! They are a completely different shape and look amazing! I am so happy, I would highly recommend her as a surgeon.
Further Reading:
British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons
