Liposuction, also known as lipoplasty, reshapes and slims specific areas of the body by removing excess fat deposits. It is commonly performed around the thighs, knees, buttocks, waist, hips, abdomen, chin, neck and upper arms. Liposuction does not replace healthy diet and exercise, but it can assist in removing areas of fat that do not respond well to typical weight loss methods. 

This procedure is performed under general anesthesia, but patients will be well enough to go home that same day. A sterile liquid is first infused to reduce bleeding and trauma. A cannula, or thin hollow tube, is then inserted through small, inconspicuous incisions and moved back and forth to loosen excess fat. The dislodged fat is then suctioned out of the body.

The results of the procedure will be apparent when the swelling and fluid retention subsides. Full recovery usually takes about 2 to 3 weeks. The loss of excess fatty tissue should be permanently maintained as long as healthy diet and exercise is continued.