Liposuction

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery procedure that removes unwanted fat deposits from your body. If you’ve tried diet and exercise, but the fat won’t budge, liposuction can help. The procedure gives you a smoother body shape. Liposuction surgery isn’t a weight-loss procedure.

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure designed for the targeted removal of fat from specific areas of the body. This technique can permanently eliminate fat cells (adipocytes) that accumulate in areas resistant to diet and exercise, enhancing body contour and appearance. Liposuction is commonly referred to as lipoplasty or simply “lipo.”

Where on My Body Can I Get Liposuction?
Liposuction can be performed on various body areas, including:

  • Abdomen, stomach, or waist
  • Hips or “love handles” (flanks)
  • Back or chest
  • Face, cheeks, chin, or neck
  • Buttocks
  • Inner knees, calves, or ankles
  • Thighs
  • Upper arms

Who is a Candidate for Liposuction?
To ensure the procedure’s effectiveness and safety, potential candidates for liposuction typically include:

  • Adults with an average or slightly above-average weight
  • Individuals with firm skin that has good elasticity and muscle tone
  • People in good overall health
  • Those with localized fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise
  • Nonsmokers
  • Individuals with realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure

Your healthcare provider will assess your eligibility and determine if liposuction is suitable for you.

Who Might Not Be a Candidate for Liposuction?
Certain factors may disqualify individuals from undergoing liposuction, including:

  • Being underweight
  • Having a BMI over 25
  • Suffering from serious health conditions that could complicate recovery
  • Possessing unrealistic expectations about the procedure
  • Having poor skin quality, as liposuction cannot address sagging skin

For individuals with loose skin, a combination of liposuction and skin removal may be recommended.

Can Older Adults Get Liposuction?
While age is generally not a prohibitive factor, those over 65 may experience reduced skin elasticity, which can impact results.


Can Men Get Liposuction?
Yes, liposuction is suitable for individuals of all genders. For men, it is often recommended for addressing conditions such as gynecomastia, which involves enlarged male breast tissue.

Why is Liposuction Done?
Individuals may consider liposuction if they:

  • Struggled with diet and exercise to lose fat in specific areas
  • Desire to eliminate stubborn fatty bulges
  • Seek a permanent change in their body shape
  • Are prepared for a recovery period of four to six weeks post-surgery

Can Liposuction Help with Obesity?
Liposuction is not intended as a weight-loss solution or treatment for obesity. Instead, it is designed to remove localized fat deposits. Although the results are permanent, weight may be regained in the treated areas if lifestyle changes are not maintained.

How Common is Liposuction?
Liposuction is one of the most frequently performed cosmetic surgeries worldwide, with a significant number of procedures carried out annually, reflecting its popularity and effectiveness.

Procedure Details

What are the Types of Liposuction Surgeries?
Various liposuction techniques cater to different treatment goals:

  • Tumescent Liposuction: The most prevalent method, involving the injection of a saline solution with anesthetics into fatty areas to facilitate fat removal while minimizing blood loss.
  • Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction (UAL): Utilizes ultrasonic energy to liquefy fat for easier extraction.
  • VASER Liposuction: A specialized UAL technique that employs ultrasound waves to efficiently remove fat cells.
  • Suction-Assisted Liposuction: A traditional technique that employs a vacuum to remove fat.
  • Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL): Features a motorized cannula that aids in fat removal by breaking down fatty tissues.
  • Laser-Assisted Liposuction: Involves the use of laser energy to melt fat, allowing for less invasive treatment with smaller incisions.

Your surgeon will discuss the most appropriate technique based on your goals during the consultation.

Who Performs Liposuction?
A qualified plastic surgeon, preferably one who is board-certified and experienced, performs liposuction. It is essential to select a surgeon affiliated with a reputable medical institution.

How Do I Choose a Plastic Surgeon?
Your healthcare provider can refer you to an experienced plastic surgeon. You may also seek recommendations from individuals who have undergone liposuction. During your consultation, inquire about:

  • Board certification in plastic surgery
  • Specific training in cosmetic procedures
  • Experience and the number of procedures performed
  • Hospital privileges for performing liposuction
  • Eligibility for the procedure
  • The technique to be used
  • Detailed procedure outline
  • Risks, complications, and recovery timeline
  • Options if you are dissatisfied with the results
  • Long-term outcomes of the procedure

What Happens Before a Liposuction Procedure?
Prior to the procedure, you will meet with your surgeon to discuss:

  • Your skin type
  • Recommended liposuction option
  • Expected outcomes and safety of the procedure
  • Costs and financial considerations
  • Complete medical history, including allergies and current medications
  • Any additional questions or concerns

It’s vital to maintain realistic expectations, as liposuction targets specific body areas rather than serving as a comprehensive obesity treatment.

How Do I Prepare for Liposuction Surgery?
Your surgeon will provide specific pre-surgery instructions, which may include:

  • Dietary or alcohol restrictions
  • Guidelines for medications and supplements
  • Required laboratory tests
  • Smoking cessation

What Happens During Liposuction Surgery?
Your procedure will begin with the administration of anesthesia—either local or general. Your surgeon will then make small incisions in the skin and insert a cannula to break up the fat for removal. The surgical setting may vary based on the volume of fat being extracted, ranging from outpatient clinics to hospitals for larger removals. Recovery requires transportation arrangements post-surgery.

Can I Get Multiple Plastic Surgery Procedures at Once?
Combining liposuction with other cosmetic procedures may be possible. Discuss with your surgeon about the safety and feasibility of performing additional surgeries simultaneously.

What Happens After a Liposuction Procedure?
Following the procedure, your healthcare provider will provide post-operative care instructions, including:

  • Surgical site care
  • Prescribed medications
  • Follow-up appointments
  • Warning signs of complications

While liposuction can effectively eliminate fat cells, it is essential to remember that weight gain may still occur post-procedure. Recovery signs may include bruising, swelling, and soreness, which typically subside over time. Compression garments may be advised to reduce swelling.

Is Liposuction Painful?
During the procedure, you will not experience pain due to anesthesia. However, discomfort is common during the recovery phase. Pain management options will be discussed by your healthcare provider.

Risks / Benefits

What are the Benefits of a Liposuction Procedure?
The benefits of liposuction include:

  • Effective removal of stubborn fat deposits
  • Enhanced body contour and improved clothing fit
  • Minimal scarring post-surgery

What are the Risks or Complications of a Liposuction Procedure?
While generally safe when performed by a qualified surgeon, liposuction carries certain risks, such as:

  • Infection
  • Changes in skin sensation or discoloration
  • Bruising and swelling
  • Pain and discomfort during recovery
  • Scarring
  • Bleeding or contour irregularities

Recovery and Outlook

What is the Recovery Time for Liposuction?
Recovery duration varies based on individual circumstances, with complete healing typically taking up to six months. Initial recovery may require reduced activity for about six weeks.

When Can I Return to My Regular Activities After Surgery?
Most patients can return to work within a few days, with normal activities resumed approximately two weeks post-surgery. Strenuous activities may be restricted for up to six weeks.

Will I Have Scars After Liposuction?
Liposuction will result in some scarring, although the incisions are typically small. Your provider will guide you on scar care to minimize their appearance.

Is Liposuction Permanent?
Yes, liposuction permanently removes fat cells from targeted areas. However, weight gain can still occur in other regions if a healthy lifestyle is not maintained.

When Will I See the Results of Liposuction?
Swelling and fluid retention may obscure immediate results, with significant improvements visible between three to six months as healing progresses.

Will I Need a Second Liposuction Procedure?
Most individuals achieve satisfactory results without the need for a second procedure. However, lifestyle changes or future cosmetic desires may prompt additional surgery.

When To Call the Doctor

When Should I See My Healthcare Provider?
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:

  • Persistent or severe pain
  • Significant swelling
  • Fluid or blood leakage from the surgical site
  • Fever
  • Shortness of breath or chest pain

Additional Common Questions

Does Liposuction Remove Cellulite?
Liposuction does not eliminate cellulite, which is a skin condition characterized by a dimpled appearance. Cellulite is due to fibrous tissue beneath the skin, which liposuction cannot address.

What is the Difference Between Liposuction and Tummy Tuck?
While both procedures aim to improve body appearance, liposuction focuses on fat removal, whereas a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) removes excess skin and tightens abdominal muscles. Individuals with stretched skin from pregnancy or significant weight loss may consider a tummy tuck.