Liposuction

This operation is designed to remove localized areas of fat from many areas of the body. It is designed to sculpt these areas and not treat obesity or tighten the skin. Small incisions are made, and the fat is removed through suction tubes called cannulae. In most instances, the area to be treated is distended with saline, a local anesthetic, and a medicine to constrict blood vessels. This is known as tumescent fluid.

Depending on the amount of fat to be removed and the number of body areas requiring treatment, the procedure may be performed under conscious sedation or general anesthesia and as an outpatient or overnight stay. Recovery also depends on the number of areas treated, but most patients resume their usual activities after one to two weeks.