Liposuction: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Liposuction?
A plastic surgeon, a surgeon who reshapes the body, typically does liposuction. It is a type of cosmetic surgery. It removes unwanted extra fat to improve body appearance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Liposuction removes extra body fat by suction, using special surgical tools. Surgeons may use it on areas such as the chin, neck, upper arms, abdomen, buttocks, hips, and thighs. The most common type is tumescent liposuction. A medicated fluid is injected into the area before the fat is removed.
Why a doctor might recommend it
It may be used for body shaping. This is for people who are bothered by fatty bulges that diet and exercise cannot remove. It is not used as a substitute for exercise and diet, or as a cure for general obesity. It is also not used to treat cellulite, the uneven, dimpled look of skin over the hips, thighs, and buttocks, or to treat excess skin.
How to prepare
Before surgery, you will meet with your surgeon. The visit includes a history, a physical exam, and a psychological evaluation.
Other common preparation steps include the following.
- Health problems such as heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, and lung problems should be under control first.
- You may be asked to stop smoking or vaping, because smoking decreases blood flow and can slow healing.
- You may be asked to avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements, because they can increase bleeding.
- Your surgeon may ask you to adjust your current medicines, so follow your surgeon's instructions about them.
- Arrange for someone to drive you to and from surgery and to stay with you for at least the first night.
What happens during it
The surgical team prepares the areas of your body that will be treated. You will get local or general anesthesia. General anesthesia is medicine that allows you to be asleep and pain-free.
In the most common type, the surgeon injects a medicated solution under your skin through a small cut. The fluid has lidocaine in it. Lidocaine is a medicine that numbs the area during and after surgery. The loosened fat is then vacuumed away through a suction tube. A vacuum pump or a large syringe provides the suction. Several skin punctures may be needed to treat large areas. A compression garment is placed around the site of surgery.
Recovery
Liposuction may or may not need a hospital stay, depending on the location and extent of surgery. Bandages and a compression garment press on the area, stop any bleeding, and help keep its shape. You will likely need the compression garment for several weeks. You will likely have swelling, bruising, numbness, and pain, but medicines can help manage them. Walk as soon as possible after surgery to help prevent blood clots from forming in your legs. Avoid hard exercise for about a month after the surgery. A follow-up visit with your surgeon will be needed.
Risks and side effects
It can cause serious harm. Rare problems can be fatal.
Risks include the following.
- Infection.
- Bleeding and blood clots.
- Tiny bits of fat in the blood that block blood flow to tissue.
- Damage to nerves, skin, tissue, or organs, or burns from the heat or tools used.
- Uneven fat removal, dents or dimples in your skin, or contouring problems.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have trouble breathing, chest pain or discomfort lasting two minutes or more, fainting, or bleeding that will not stop.
Who performs it
A plastic surgeon typically does the surgery.
Common questions
Is liposuction a way to lose weight?
No, it is not a cure for general obesity or a substitute for exercise and diet.
How long does it take to recover from liposuction?
It takes about 1 or 2 weeks to start to feel better. You may return to work within a few days of the surgery. Bruising and swelling usually go away within 3 weeks, but you may still have some swelling several months later.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Liposuction
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons - Liposuction Preparation
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons - Liposuction Risks and Safety
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
