Removes stubborn fat deposits from the body that are resistant to diet and exercise with a tube and vacuum device. Liposuction can be performed either using the tumescent technique or through ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty (UAL). Common locations for liposuction include the chin, cheeks, neck, upper arms, above breasts, abdomen, buttocks, hips, thighs, knees, calves, and ankles.

1 to 2 hours, or more. The UAL type liposuction (see below in “Technology”) can take 40 percent longer than regular liposuction procedures.

Temporary soreness, swelling and bruising. Tumescent: Temporary fluid drainage from incision sites. UAL: Larger incisions for cannula.

Asymmetry. Rippling or bagginess of skin. Other risks include pigmentation changes, skin injury, infection, and fluid retention. Excessive fluid loss may lead to shock. UAL: heat from the ultrasound device may cause thermal burn injury.

Permanent, sensitive to diet and exercise.

The surgeon makes small incisions in the skin near fatty areas and inserts a long, hollow tube (known as a cannula) which vacuums out fatty tissues. Using the tumescent technique, targeted fat cells are infused with saline containing solution with a local anesthetic before the procedure to reduce post-operative bruising and swelling. Using UAL, an ultrasound probe is inserted under the skin to “liquify” the fat before it is suctioned out.