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Plastic Surgery

Liposuction

Body-contouring surgery that suctions out stubborn fat deposits from the abdomen, flanks, thighs, arms, back, or chin.

Liposuction illustration
Success rate
95%
Avg cost (US)
$3,500–$8,000/area
Recovery
5–14 days
US volume / yr
~330,000
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Who it helps

Adults near their target weight with localized fat deposits resistant to diet and exercise. Not a weight-loss procedure.

What to expect

1–3 hour outpatient surgery under general or local tumescent anesthesia. Compression garment for weeks after.

Recovery

Return to office work in 1 week. Swelling resolves gradually over 3–6 months.

Cost range

$3,000–$10,000 depending on areas treated.

Questions to ask your doctor

  • Am I an appropriate candidate at my current weight?
  • Which technique (tumescent, laser, VASER) is right for me?
  • Will I need skin tightening too?

Frequently asked

Will the fat come back?

Removed fat cells don't return, but weight gain still enlarges remaining cells elsewhere.

How much fat can be removed safely?

Typically up to 5 liters in a single outpatient procedure; more requires higher-acuity settings.

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General information only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for your specific situation.