Designed to slim and reshape specific areas of the body by removing excess deposits of fat, liposuction (“lipoplasty”) is the leading cosmetic surgery procedure in the country. It can help to effectively improve the contours and proportion of both men and women’s bodies. When applied to the appropriate problem, it offers beautiful, natural-looking results that can ultimately enhance your self-image.

Liposuction, although it is designed to remove fat from certain areas of the body, should not be regarded as a weight loss procedure; an individual should be at a healthy weight prior to undergoing liposuction. This procedure is best for those who have already committed themselves to a steady regimen of diet and exercise, but are unable to slim down certain areas due to stubborn pockets of fat. Liposuction can treat a variety of areas of the body, including the: chin, neck, upper arms, stomach, waist, thighs, and buttocks. This procedure can be performed alone or in combination with another body contouring procedure. Tummy tuck surgery (“abdominoplasty”) is commonly performed with liposuction as it is designed to remove loose, hanging skin in the midsection.

These days, there are several liposuction techniques available. Your surgeon will help determine which one is right for you. The standard liposuction procedure entails the use of a cannula, a thin tube that is used to gently break up the fat that sits directly beneath the skin. The fat is extracted through a special suctioning device attached at the end of the cannula. This is done through small incisions in order to alleviate the possibility of dramatic scarring.

In addition to being physically healthy, you should have realistic goals and expectations if you are interested in undergoing liposuction. Ideal candidates should also have firm skin with good elasticity and tone. During the consultation with your surgeon, you can learn about the various factors involved with this type of body reshaping surgery. You should be prepared to discuss your desired outcome and what you hope to achieve with liposuction. In addition, your surgeon will ask you questions regarding any previous surgeries you may have had, medical conditions, and your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions that may be risk factors.