Overview
For many people, a healthy diet and regular exercise are simply not enough to eliminate localized deposits of fat and cellulite. Pockets of fat around the thighs, buttocks, lower abdomen, upper arms, face, and neck can be especially stubborn, and people may be hard-pressed to find a diet and exercise regimen that targets those specific areas. However, liposuction can be used to remove excess fat from targeted parts of the body. Our New Orleans cosmetic surgeons use power-assisted liposuction by using a tube-like device called a cannula to loosen fat cells, and remove them from the body. This procedure is extremely popular among our patients and helps them achieve a slimmer contour. Individuals considering liposuction should be at or near a stabilized weight.
Liposuction Reviews
Surgical Technique
Tumescent "Super-Wet"
Tumescent liposuction, known as the “Super-Wet” approach, is a suction-assisted (SAL) technique that uses a solution and power-aided motor to help remove stubborn fat. The surgeon injects the solution, made of saline, lidocaine and epinephrine (to control bleeding), into the problem areas. The surgeon then inserts the cannula attached to the motor to remove fat cells from the body at a controlled speed. The motor helps surgeons remove anywhere from several ounces to a few pounds of fat.
Ultrasound-Assisted (UAL)
Another surgical technique commonly used is the ultrasound-assisted (UAL), or ultrasonic, approach. Surgeons perform this dual process on denser areas of fat, such as in the thighs and stomach. During this technique, ultrasound waves loosen and melt fat into a liquid. Surgeons then use the cannula to extract the solution. This surgical method is more popular among men wanting more defined and contoured muscles.
Laser-Assisted (LAL)
Laser-assisted liposuction uses laser technology on specified areas of fat to burst energy that will loosen and liquefy the fat for removal. LAL liposuction includes brands such as SmartLipo, SlimLipo, Lipolite Laser Liposculpture, LipoLite, and ProLipo PLUS.
During/After Surgery
Liposuction is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia at a hospital or surgery center. The procedure lasts about 30 minutes for each body part. It can be a stand-alone surgery, or combined with other procedures. However, the surgeon may suggest performing the surgery over a period of time for the safety of the patient. After surgery, patients are required to wear a compression garment to help the body adjust to its new shape. Bruising and swelling will subside within 1 week, but patients will not see final results for several months. Liposuction does leave a small scar, but it fades over time.
Expected Cost
The average cost for liposuction depends on the technique and scope of the surgery. Most patients in the U.S. can pay anywhere from $1,500 to $7,000 for one procedure. If combined with other procedures, the cost of the surgery can increase significantly.
Plan Your Procedure
- Average Cost
- $4,000 - $12,000
- Recovery Time
- 1 Week
- Average Procedure Time
- Varies
- Post-op Follow-up
- Varies
- Procedure Recovery Location
- Out-Patient
Liposuction FAQs
Is it Safe?
While today’s surgical techniques are safe, patients can experience poor results from inexperienced surgeons. It is important for patients to do their research, and find an experienced surgeon that can help them achieve the best, most natural-looking results.
Permanent Results?
The results of liposuction can be seen for many years following surgery if the patient follows a healthy diet and exercise program. Removed fat cells do not come back, but patients can still gain weight if their remaining fat cells grow.
Too Much Fat?
Yes, there can be too much fat. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons does not recommend removing more than 10 pounds of fat for the safety of the patient. Removing more than 10 pounds is considered high-volume liposuction, which increases the chances of complications from the surgery. Patients are advised to be near or at their ideal weight before undergoing liposuction.
Skin Tightening?
While liposuction removes fat and improves contour and shape, it does not address sagging or drooping skin. If skin laxity is a concern, patients can talk to the surgeon during the consultation to discuss their options for improving skin texture, such as a tummy tuck, thigh, neck, arm or butt lift.
