Liposuction
Also known as lipo, body contouring
Removes localised fat deposits that resist diet and training. It is a contouring tool, not a weight-loss method.
US $3,000–8,000 per area; $8,000–15,000+ for multiple areas.
How it works
A cannula is inserted through small incisions and subcutaneous fat cells are suctioned out. Because adult fat cell number is largely fixed, removed cells do not return — though remaining cells in the area and elsewhere can still enlarge with weight gain.
How it's used
Best for people near their goal weight with good skin elasticity and discrete stubborn deposits. It does not treat visceral fat, cellulite or skin laxity. Establish a stable weight before booking, and expect to maintain it afterwards.
Trade-offs
In favour
- Permanently removes fat cells from the treated area
- Effective for genetically stubborn deposits
- Can be combined across multiple areas in one session
- Results are predictable in good candidates
Against
- Not a weight-loss procedure
- Skin laxity can be revealed or worsened
- Weight gain afterwards distributes to untreated areas, which can look odd
- Contour irregularities are common with inexperienced operators
Risks and side effects
- Contour irregularities, rippling and asymmetry
- Seroma requiring drainage
- Prolonged swelling and firmness for months
- Skin laxity after volume removal
- Infection
- Fat embolism and, with large-volume or multi-site procedures, serious systemic risks — this is why volume limits and accredited facilities matter
Recovery
Week 1: compression garment continuously, soreness, bruising, drainage from incisions. Weeks 2–4: garment continued, light activity, swelling significant. Weeks 4–8: training resumes, firmness softening. Months 3–6: final contour emerges.
How good is the evidence?
Very well-established with extensive outcome data; safety depends strongly on volume, facility accreditation and surgeon experience.
Sources
- Liposuction safety and outcomesPubMed
- Find a board-certified plastic surgeonAmerican Society of Plastic Surgeons
Sources point to guideline bodies and literature searches rather than single papers, so they stay accurate as the evidence moves.