Liposuction

Liposuction targets stubborn body fat that just won’t budge. Through a minimally invasive procedure lasting up to 2 hours, Liposuction helps permanently remove unwanted fat while sculpting areas such as the abdomen, flanks, hips, thighs, arms, and under the chin. With hundreds of thousands of these procedures performed per year, it’s more than a common solution for fat removal.

Medically reviewed by:

Dr. Michael Salzhauer

MD, FACS

Board-Certified Surgeon

Written by:

Stephanie Stevens

Updated on May 5th, 2025

347K performed per year

$4,711 average cost

35-50 years avg. age

Up to 5 liters safe fat removal

0.7% low risk rate

What types of Liposuction are out there?

Liposuction comes in several forms, each designed to target fat with precision. From traditional suction-assisted methods to newer techniques like laser, these methods offer you customizable ways to contour your body.

01.

Tumescent Liposuction:

Tumescent Liposuction is the most common and trusted approach to fat removal. It involves injecting a special fluid to numb the treatment area, making fat easier to remove and reducing bleeding. The fat is then removed through thin suction instruments called cannulas, which have been inserted into tiny incisions. Almost all Liposuction, regardless of the tools used, uses tumescent solution. Tumescent Liposuction can be done under local anesthesia or combined with IV and general anesthesia.

02.

Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction (UAL):

Vaser-Lipo is an example of UAL. This approach uses a special instrument that applies sound wave energy to liquefy fat, making it easier to suction out afterwards. UAL is often used when more difficult fat removal is required, especially in fibrous areas of the body like the back, male chest (gynecomastia), and areas with dense fat deposits or scarring from previous liposuction procedures. UAL or Vaser-Lipo is often used for high-definition liposculpting or abdominal etching to create better muscle definition.

03.

Laser-Assisted Liposuction (SmartLipo):

With SmartLipo, a laser is used to liquefy fat before it’s removed, which promotes skin tightening. The dual benefits of fat removal and skin tightening make SmartLipo an incredibly appealing option for clients who want to slim their curves with minimal invasiveness. This approach is effective in areas where skin laxity is a concern, as the laser-induced collagen production can achieve a firmer skin appearance post-procedure.

04.

Awake Lipo:

A minimally invasive fat removal procedure performed under local anesthesia, Awake Lipo lets clients remain conscious and interactive while your surgeon works their magic. This approach involves numbing the target area with a local anesthetic, allowing your surgeon to remove fat through a thin cannula in your incisions. The benefit of awake liposuction is a potentially faster recovery and the avoidance of general anesthesia.

05.

Lipo360:

By removing fat from the entire midsection, including the abdomen, flanks, and back, this comprehensive approach to body Liposuction creates a smooth, seamless contour from every angle. In just one session, surgeons can strategically target multiple areas to enhance your waistline and deliver a beautifully balanced frame. It’s an ideal option for clients who want to make a bold change to their torsos. While recovery may take a bit longer, the results can be drastic and deeply rewarding, especially when paired with a commitment to long-term self-care.

06.

Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL):

PAL uses a mechanical hand piece that vibrates or articulates to help your surgeon’s cannula move through the tissues more easily. The PAL allows the surgeon to work more efficiently, which can reduce the length of the surgery and anesthesia time.

What to expect before and after your Liposuction.

Before the procedure

01

Undergo a full medical consultation to make sure you're good to go for your procedure.

02

Reach and maintain your desired weight goal for post-procedure maintenance.

03

Don’t shave your treatment area to reduce the risk of infection.

04

Adjust health habits like stopping medications that increase bleeding and quitting smoking.

05

Prepare for recovery by arranging transportation, a support person, and a cozy space.

The procedure day

01

Receive local or general anesthesia for complete comfort during your procedure.

02

Your surgeon makes small incisions in inconspicuous areas to minimize visible scarring.

03

An injection of saline, lidocaine, and epinephrine is given in your treatment area.

04

Your surgeon inserts a cannula through the incisions and uses suction to remove fat.

05

Incisions are closed with sutures.

After the procedure

01

Wear your compression garment to support the skin and the recovery process.

02

Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise until the end of week 4.

03

Keep your incisions clean and dry, and use the scar cream prescribed to you.

04

Stick to an anti-inflammatory diet to reduce swelling.

05

Follow care instructions and attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing.

Bliss turns the typical procedure process into a transformative experience. From your first consultation to your final reveal, every step — before, during, and after — is personalized around you. Your Care Advisor will guide you through surgeon-matching, procedure prep, and post-op healing, making sure you’re fully supported, perfectly prepared, and cared for at every moment.

Let’s talk about results.

The fat cells removed during Liposuction are gone for good, creating permanent changes in your body. But, remaining fat cells can still expand with weight fluctuations or aging, so maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential to keep your results looking their best. Many clients report feeling thrilled with their slimmer appearance, enjoying these changes for years, as long as they maintain a stable weight.

Immediate post-op

Expect swelling, bruising, and soreness in the treated areas. There may be some drainage from the incision, which typically resolves within 48 hours.

Weeks 2-4

reated areas may begin to feel tight and firm, and lymphatic massage at this stage is important to soften tissues and accelerate healing.

Months 1-3

Results will be noticeable as swelling resolves. Temporary fibrosis peaks at 4-6 weeks but should start resolving. Sensation is starting to return to normal.

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Our dedicated support doesn’t end just because your procedure does. Your Care Advisor stays by your side with tips, tricks, and recovery guidelines to make healing feel easy, smooth, and stress-free. Because you deserve to love your results for life.

The benefits, basics, and big picture.

Every procedure begins with a wish, but it’s not magic. It’s a choice. The perks? Powerful. The trade-offs? Just as real. When you know what’s ahead, you walk in confident in your decision, not just hopeful.

Targeted Fat Removal

Versatile for Your Unique Shape

Fast Recovery with Faster Results

Complications and Irregularities

Not a Substitute for Weight Loss

Numbness and Fluid Accumulation

Liposuction effectively eliminates stubborn fat that won’t budge with diet and exercise, giving you a slimmer and more toned appearance, helping you feel your best in your skin.

Whether it’s the abdomen, thighs, arms, or neck, liposuction can be tailored to your specific goals and body type, enhancing overall body proportions for a balanced, natural silhouette.

With minimal scarring and a fast recovery, you can start enjoying your new look and feel almost immediately, boosting your confidence and helping you feel your best, faster.

While rare, complications like bleeding, infection, and reactions to anesthesia can occur. Some clients may also experience skin irregularities after the procedure, but most improve over time as swelling decreases and the skin adjusts. Some cases may require another procedure or two to correct significant irregularities, such as surgical revision or fat grafting to smooth out uneven areas.

Liposuction is not an alternative to any traditional weight loss method or prescriptions, and it’s best suited for clients who are already close to their ideal weight.

Temporary numbness is common, but usually resolves. In rare cases, numbness can persist. Fluid buildup (seromas) can also happen, but wearing compression garments and choosing an experienced surgeon can help prevent both issues and take you down a path to smooth healing.

Cost considerations

Your Liposuction price breakdown.

Expertise and facility costs

This covers your surgeon’s specialized experience in your procedure, along with the costs of the surgical center, including the operating room, recovery room, and all essential equipment.

Scope of the procedure

Depending on your individual needs, the procedure may require special techniques, equipment, or medical recommendations for a unique situation.

Travel expenses

If the right surgeon for you is a plane ride away, then travel costs such as transportation and hotel accommodations will be separate fees you pay in addition to the procedure.

Anesthesia fees

The anesthesia cost includes the anesthesiologist’s time, the type of anesthesia used, and all the monitoring equipment.

Post-procedure care

This means follow-up appointments, prescribed medications, and any medical supplies or garments needed to support your recovery process.

Estimated price range

$4,000
-
$18,000

Accommodations will be included in your final estimate.

Financing is how most Bliss clients bring their dreams to life. Yet, 76% of people exploring procedures still don’t know this option is available. No wonder 85% of those who don’t book say affordability is holding them back, and two-thirds would be more likely to move forward if they knew financing was an option.

We work with trusted lenders like CareCredit to offer you a range of financing options, so you can get started on your procedure now and pay over time. Flexible, secure, and with 0% interest for up to 24 months, it’s care that fits your budget, not the other way around. With multiple providers, we’ll make sure you get the best rate possible.

Find the right Liposuction surgeon.

One of the most important parts of your aesthetic journey is finding the right surgeon for your procedure. One who will honor and respect your comfort level, aesthetic goals, and give you the results you’ve been wanting. But how do you know when you’ve found “the one?”

Board certification

Surgeons who are certified in aesthetic or ophthalmic surgery have undergone rigorous training and must pass comprehensive written and oral exams. Certification ensures that the surgeon has met high standards of education, training, and ethical practice.

Experience and specialization

Look for a surgeon who specializes in your Liposuction type and performs them regularly. Don’t be shy. Question them about their specific experience with the method you're interested in. A surgeon who frequently performs your desired procedure is likely to have refined their technique, leading to better results.

Bedside manner and communication

It should be your practitioner’s top priority to make you feel comfortable, safe, and heard. They should listen to your goals and concerns and provide clear, honest answers to your questions. A good practitioner will not pressure you into additional procedures and will suggest options that are best for your health and beauty goals.

Before and after photos

Reviewing “before” and “after” photos is fun, but that doesn’t make it any less serious a step when choosing a surgeon for Liposuction. Photos of previous clients give you a sense of their work and the results you can expect. All photos should be available to you during your consultation, even if they are not posted online due to privacy concerns.

Facility accreditation

A Blepharoplasty should only be performed in an accredited facility. Accredited surgical centers meet strict safety and quality standards, providing a safe environment for your procedure. Look for accreditation from organizations such as the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF) or the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC).

Bliss List approved

The most beautiful part of this journey is that Bliss is here to guide you the whole way through. We’ll be matching you with the best practitioner who made our coveted Bliss List, complete with pre-vetted and board-certified experts in their fields. We have high standards, because you deserve the best.

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