What Is Liposuction?
Many Americans have only a vague concept of what liposuction is. Simply put, liposuction is the surgical removal of fat cells through a stainless steel suction tube called a cannula. Liposuction was first performed in 1974 and was a tremendous improvement over previous surgical body contouring techniques. There have been many advances in liposuction procedures over the last few decades, making it one of the safest and most popular body contouring surgeries in the world.

Are You a Good Candidate for Liposuction?
If you are considering liposuction, it is important that you have realistic expectations. Although dramatic results can be achieved, they may not be as immediate or obvious as you would like. As with all plastic surgery, the success of liposuction will depend on a number of individual factors, such as age, skin elasticity, weight, and overall health. Liposuction is not appropriate for people with a weakened immune system, diabetes, heart or artery problems, or a history of blood clots or restricted blood flow. You are a good candidate for liposuction if you are of normal weight; have healthy, elastic skin; and have specific “trouble areas” such as the tummy, thighs, and butt that will not respond to changes in diet and exercise. Liposuction is also appropriate for women who are considering breast reduction, and for men who suffer from gynecomastia, or male breast development. To learn more, see our full page on liposuction candidacy.

Types of Liposuction
The cost of liposuction can vary greatly depending on the type you chose, the area(s) of the body you want to target, and your surgeon. Generally, liposuction procedures run anywhere from $1,500 to $7,500, your total cost depending on the number of treatments you undergo. Except in very rare cases, liposuction is not covered by insurance, and must be paid in full by the patient. There are many financing options available for plastic surgery through national credit companies such as CareCredit®, Capital One® Healthcare Finance, or Unicorn® Financial. For more information, see our section on liposuction financing and liposuction costs.

The Liposuction Procedure
The basic liposuction procedure involves the insertion of a small, tube-like instrument called a cannula through tiny incisions made by the surgeon. The cannula then breaks up and vacuums away unwanted fat deposits beneath the skin. Local or IV sedation will be used, depending on the type and number of liposuction procedures you undergo. As with any plastic surgery, you should prepare for liposuction carefully and allow yourself plenty of recovery time.