
People often seek liposuction to target and eliminate stubborn fat that resists diet and exercise, achieving a more contoured and sculpted body shape. It’s a popular choice for those who are already at or near their ideal weight but struggle with stubborn fat deposits that affect their confidence and self-esteem. Liposuction helps refine body contours, enhance proportions, and improve overall appearance, offering a boost in self-confidence and satisfaction with one’s physique.
What Is Liposuction?
Liposuction, also known as lipoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to remove excess fat from specific body areas. This procedure targets specific fat deposits that are resistant to traditional weight loss methods. Liposuction uses a suction technique to reshape and sculpt the body, enhancing its overall contour and appearance.

Who Is a Candidate for Liposuction?
Candidates for liposuction are typically individuals who:
- Are generally in good health
- Are at or near their goal weight
- Are non-smokers
- Have persistent fat deposits
- Have reasonable expectations for surgery
It’s important to note that liposuction is not a weight-loss solution but rather a body contouring procedure.
What Are the Benefits of Liposuction?
Liposuction offers numerous benefits beyond aesthetic enhancement:
- Targeted fat removal
- Improved body contour
- Boost in confidence
- Allows for clothes to fit better
- Permanently eliminates fat in the treated areas
Liposuction is a highly customizable procedure that permanently removes fat and provides long-term results if patients maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.

What Are My Liposuction Options?
Liposuction techniques have evolved, providing various options to suit different needs:
- Tumescent Liposuction: This method involves injecting a solution into the targeted area to numb it and facilitate fat removal. It’s one of the most commonly used techniques.
- Ultrasound-assisted Liposuction (UAL): This technique uses ultrasound waves to liquefy fat before suctioning it out, making it easier to remove.
- Laser-assisted Liposuction (LAL): Laser energy helps break down fat cells before suctioning. This method may also stimulate collagen production, improving skin tightness.
- Power-assisted Liposuction (PAL): An electric-powered cannula helps break up fat deposits, making the suction process more efficient.

How Is Liposuction Performed?
Initial Consultation
During the initial liposuction consultation, Dr. Bartow will evaluate your health, you’ll discuss your goals, and your candidacy for the procedure will be determined. You’ll review your medical history, undergo a physical examination, and discuss the specific areas you wish to target. The surgeon will explain the procedure, risks, benefits, and potential outcomes so you are fully informed before undergoing the procedure.
Preoperative Instructions
Following Dr. Bartow’s preoperative instructions is essential for ensuring a successful surgery and smooth recovery. To prepare, you may be advised to avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements, adhere to a healthy diet and exercise regimen, and arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure. Additionally, it’s important to refrain from smoking and consuming alcohol in the weeks leading up to surgery to promote optimal healing.
During the Procedure
Liposuction is performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the procedure. The surgeon makes small incisions in the targeted area and inserts a thin tube called a cannula to break up and suction out the unwanted fat cells. The process typically lasts between one and four hours, depending on the number of areas treated.
What Can I Expect During Recovery From Liposuction?
Recovery from liposuction varies by individual and the extent of the procedure. Here’s what you can generally expect:
Immediate Postoperative Care
Immediately after the surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery area. You may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medications. A compression garment will be applied to support the treated areas and minimize swelling.
First Few Days
In the first few days, rest is crucial. You should avoid strenuous activities and follow Dr. Bartow’s instructions regarding wound care and medication. Swelling and bruising are common and typically peak within the first 48 hours.
First Few Weeks
During the first few weeks, you may gradually return to normal activities, but avoiding high-impact exercises is essential. Continue wearing the compression garment as directed and attend follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.
Long-term Recovery
Full recovery from liposuction can take several months. As the swelling decreases, the treated areas will become more defined, revealing a smoother and more contoured shape. Maintaining a healthy diet and consistent exercise routine is essential to preserve the outcome, as weight fluctuations can affect the longevity of the results.
When Will I See My Liposuction Results?
You’ll start noticing your liposuction results within a few weeks as the swelling subsides. However, the full outcome won’t typically become visible for three to six months after your body has completely healed and adjusted. During this time, the treated areas will gradually become more sculpted and contoured as residual swelling decreases. Following all postoperative care instructions, including wearing compression garments and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, is crucial to achieve the best results.
How Much Does Liposuction Cost?
The cost of liposuction varies based on factors such as the area treated, the technique used, and the surgeon’s experience. On average, liposuction can range from $3,000 to $7,000 per area. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average surgeon fee for liposuction in 2023 was $4,711. In addition to the surgeon’s fee, there will be additional costs associated with your liposuction procedure, including anesthesia fees, surgical facility costs, compression garments, and pain medications.
Liposuction FAQ
What other procedures can be combined with liposuction?
Liposuction can be combined with other cosmetic procedures to enhance overall body contouring results. Commonly paired procedures include tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) to tighten abdominal muscles, breast augmentation or reduction to improve chest proportions, and facelifts and neck lifts to address sagging in the face and neck. Liposuction is also an essential technique used for Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) surgery to transfer fat to the buttocks for added volume. Combining procedures allows patients to achieve more comprehensive aesthetic improvements in a single surgery.
Is liposuction painful?
Most patients experience some discomfort, which is manageable with prescribed pain medications. The level of pain varies among individuals, but it generally decreases as recovery progresses.
Does liposuction leave scars?
Liposuction typically leaves minimal scarring, as the procedure involves small incisions, usually about two to three millimeters long. These incisions are strategically placed in discreet areas, such as natural skin folds, to reduce visibility. Over time, with proper care, scars tend to fade and become less noticeable. Dr. Bartow will provide instructions on scar care, such as using silicone sheets or creams to promote healing and minimize scarring. While some minor scarring is possible, most patients find it inconspicuous and minimal compared to the benefits of the procedure.
What are the risks associated with liposuction?
Just like with any surgery, there are some risks associated with liposuction. Risks can include infection, bleeding, skin irregularities, and anesthesia-related complications. Choosing a qualified, experienced surgeon and following all preoperative and postoperative instructions will reduce these risks.
How long do liposuction results last?
Liposuction results are long-lasting, provided you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. The procedure permanently removes fat cells from the treated areas, though new fat can accumulate in other areas if weight gain occurs.
