What Type of Liposuction is Right for Me?
Written by Dr. John Wakelin, MD, FACS
Choosing to undergo a liposuction procedure is a significant and personal decision, and it’s natural to feel unsure about which option is best for you. The good news is, you don’t need to have all the answers before coming in. During your consultation, we will take the time to discuss your unique anatomy, goals, and lifestyle to determine the most effective approach together. My goal as your surgeon is to help you feel confident and well-informed every step of the way so that you can make the best decision for your body and your peace of mind.
Traditional Liposuction
Traditional liposuction is one of the most popular forms of cosmetic surgery in the United States. It slims and reshapes specific areas of your body by removing excess fat deposits and improving your body shape and contours. Liposuction is most commonly performed on the tummy and love handles and can also be performed on the hips and buttocks, thighs, upper arms, back, chest area, inner knee, calves and ankles, and cheeks, chin, and neck.
Liposuction is typically done as an outpatient procedure. After receiving local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia, along with a solution to minimize pain and bleeding, I will insert a small, hollow tube called a cannula, through a small incision. The cannula is attached to a vacuum, and I carefully maneuver it to break up and suction out the fat. This tried-and-true method is effective for achieving smoother contours in a wide variety of areas.
VASER Liposelection
Another option, VASER® Liposelection, uses ultrasound energy to gently break apart fat cells before removal. This makes the fat easier to extract and can be especially effective in areas where fat tends to be more dense or stubborn. Because of its precision, VASER Liposelection is an excellent choice for patients who want to target specific problem areas while minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues.
Power-Assisted Liposuction
Power-assisted liposuction (PAL) uses a specialized cannula that rapidly vibrates to break up fat cells before suctioning them out. The vibrating cannula allows for greater accuracy and since less force is needed from the surgeon, PAL reduces bruising, swelling, and recovery time.
Laser-Assisted Liposuction
Laser-assisted liposuction (LAL) uses laser energy to liquefy fat before it is removed. Liquified fat is easier to extract and works well for small, delicate areas like the neck, chin and arms. The heat from the laser also stimulates collagen production, leading to skin tightening in the treated area and helping to improve skin elasticity post-procedure.
Recovery And Results
Regardless of the method used, you can expect some swelling and discomfort after your liposuction procedure. Wearing a compression garment for several weeks will help control swelling and encourage your skin to contract for optimal results. Most patients are able to return to work and daily activities within a few days, though recovery timelines can vary depending on the extent of the procedure.
It’s important to note that liposuction isn’t a substitute for proper diet and exercise or a treatment for obesity. However, it does permanently remove fat cells from the treated areas, which means that as long as you maintain a stable weight, you’ll be able to enjoy your enhanced contours for years to come.
Schedule A Liposuction Consultation
Fortunately, you don’t have to navigate the options on your own. As a board-certified plastic surgeon at CAPS, I’m here to guide you through the process.
During our one-on-one consultation, I will get to know you and recommend a tailored plan based on your body type and aesthetic goals. For many patients, liposuction can be combined with other procedures like a tummy tuck, breast surgery, or a facelift to achieve comprehensive results—and we can discuss those possibilities as well.
At the end of the day, it’s all about helping you feel your best. If you’re ready to say goodbye to stubborn fat and hello to a more confident you, schedule your consultation today. Together, we’ll create a plan that puts your beauty in all CAPS.