Liposuction
Stubborn fat deposits that resist diet and exercise can be frustrating, but liposuction offers a proven solution for achieving the body contours you desire. At New York Plastic Surgical Group, our world-renowned plastic surgeons have been performing advanced liposuction procedures for over 75 years, helping thousands of patients in New York City, Long Island, and surrounding areas achieve natural-looking results with minimal downtime.
Liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the United States, with nearly 350,000 procedures performed annually.1 Unlike weight loss surgery or diet programs, liposuction is specifically designed to eliminate isolated stubborn pockets of fat from virtually any area of the body, creating improved contours and enhanced body proportions. Whether you’re concerned about your abdomen, flanks, thighs, arms, back, or chin and neck, our surgeons customize each procedure to meet your unique aesthetic goals.
As one of the largest plastic surgery practices in the nation, New York Plastic Surgical Group performs over 400 liposuction procedures annually, giving our surgeons extensive experience across a wide range of body types and treatment areas. This procedural volume supports a refined, patient-specific approach to body contouring.
How Liposuction Works
Liposuction is a minimally invasivecosmetic surgery procedure that removes excess fat cells from targeted areas of the body. The procedure begins with the injection of tumescent fluid, a specialized solution containing an anesthetic, saline, and epinephrine. This fluid serves multiple purposes: it prevents excessive fluid loss during the procedure, makes fat removal easier for the surgeon, and provides local anesthesia to minimize discomfort.
Once the tumescent solution is in place, your surgeon inserts a cannula, a long, thin metal tube, beneath the skin through small incisions. The cannula is moved back and forth in a controlled manner to loosen and liquefy fat cells. These liquefied fat cells are then suctioned out using a specialized vacuum device. The entire process is performed with precision to preserve surrounding tissues, blood vessels, and nerves.2
For most patients, liposuction is performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia or local anesthesia, typically taking less than two hours depending on the number of areas treated. Our surgeons perform procedures in fully accredited operating rooms at our Manhattan and Garden City locations, both certified by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities, Inc. (AAAASF), ensuring adherence to the highest standards of surgical care and patient safety.
More Ways to Shape Your Best Self
Beyond liposuction, these treatments can smooth, tighten, and restore your body’s natural balance — helping you look and feel your very best.
Renuvion
Reveal a smoother, firmer look with this advanced treatment that tightens skin and enhances your natural contours.
Mommy Makeover
Reclaim your shape with a customized set of treatments designed to restore confidence after pregnancy.
Tummy Tuck
Flatten and tone your midsection for a slimmer, more confident silhouette.
*modelBenefits of Liposuction
Liposuction offers numerous advantages for patients seeking body contouring:
- Removal of stubborn fat deposits from virtually any area of the body, including the chin and neck, upper arms, back, flanks, abdomen, thighs, and buttocks
- Improved body proportions and enhanced natural contours
- Slimmer, more sculpted appearance that complements your overall physique
- Increased confidence in your appearance and comfort in clothing
- Minimally invasive approach with smaller incisions compared to traditional surgical methods
- Reduced recovery time compared to more extensive surgical procedures
- Long-lasting results when combined with a healthy lifestyle and stable weight
- Ability to better fit into clothing and enjoy activities without self-consciousness about problem areas
Am I a Candidate for Liposuction?
Ideal candidates for liposuction share certain characteristics that help predict successful outcomes and high patient satisfaction.
Candidacy Criteria
Ideal candidates for liposuction are:
- In good overall health with no serious medical conditions that would impair healing
- Non-smokers or willing to quit smoking before and after surgery
- Within 30% of their ideal weight
- Have firm, elastic skin with good muscle tone
- Have realistic expectations about results and understand liposuction is not a weight loss solution
- Concerned about specific areas of excess fat that do not respond to diet and exercise
- Committed to maintaining results through a healthy lifestyle3
Who May Not Be a Good Candidate
Liposuction may not be appropriate for patients who:
- Are significantly overweight and seeking weight loss (bariatric surgery may be more appropriate)
- Have poor skin elasticity or significant skin laxity (skin tightening procedures may be needed)
- Have active infections or uncontrolled medical conditions
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have unrealistic expectations about results
- Are unwilling to follow post-operative instructions
During your consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your individual circumstances and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan to help you achieve your aesthetic goals safely and effectively.
Advanced Liposuction Techniques
New York Plastic Surgical Group offers multiple advanced liposuction techniques, allowing our surgeons to select the most appropriate method for your specific needs and desired outcomes.
While liposuction is often performed as a standalone body contouring procedure, it is also commonly used as an adjunct to other plastic surgery procedures to enhance overall results. Our surgeons frequently incorporate liposuction during tummy tucks (abdominoplasty), arm lifts (brachioplasty), thigh lifts, breast reductions, and other body contouring surgeries to refine contours, improve symmetry, and create more harmonious outcomes.
Vaser® Liposuction
Vaser® Liposuction is an ultrasonic liposuction technique that uses sound wave energy to selectively liquefy fat cells while preserving surrounding tissues. This advanced technology allows our surgeons to remove larger quantities of fat from concentrated areas with greater precision.
The Vaser Liposuction procedure begins with tumescent fluid injection into the target area. Ultrasonic energy is then transmitted through specialized cannulas, which breaks down fat cell membranes and liquefies the fat. The liquid fat is subsequently suctioned out. Because Vaser Liposuction is highly selective, it minimizes trauma to surrounding tissues, potentially reducing bruising and swelling compared to traditional techniques.
Incisions for Vaser Liposuction are typically extremely small and easily hidden with clothing or swimwear. The procedure usually takes less than two hours and can be performed on an outpatient basis under general or local anesthesia.
Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL)
Power-assisted liposuction uses a mechanized cannula that vibrates at a rapid frequency, making fat removal more efficient and potentially reducing surgeon fatigue during longer procedures. This technique can be particularly effective for treating larger areas or fibrous fat deposits that are more resistant to traditional manual techniques.
Tumescent Liposuction
Tumescent liposuction is a traditional technique that relies on the injection of large volumes of dilute local anesthetic solution to facilitate fat removal. This method has been refined over decades and remains highly effective, particularly for smaller treatment areas or patients who prefer local anesthesia.
Renuvion Skin Tightening and Liposuction
For patients concerned about skin laxity following fat removal, Renuvion skin tightening can be combined with liposuction to achieve superior results. While liposuction removes stubborn fat deposits, Renuvion uses helium plasma energy to tighten and firm the overlying skin, creating a smoother, more sculpted contour.
This combination is especially beneficial for areas prone to skin laxity, such as the abdomen, arms, thighs, and neck. By pairing these treatments, patients can achieve more comprehensive, long-lasting results with minimal additional downtime compared to liposuction alone.
Treatment Areas
Liposuction can be performed on virtually any area of the body where excess fat deposits exist. Common treatment areas include:
- Face and Neck: Chin liposuction and neck contouring to define the jawline and reduce fullness
- Upper Arms: Removal of excess fat to create more defined, toned appearance
- Back: Reduction of bra roll fat and upper back fullness
- Abdomen and Flanks: Contouring of the midsection, including love handles and lower abdomen
- Thighs: Inner thigh, outer thigh, and saddlebag reduction
- Buttocks: Enhancement through fat removal or fat transfer
- Calves and Ankles: Refinement of lower leg contours
- Breasts: Reduction of excess breast tissue in men or contouring in women
Many patients choose to treat multiple areas during a single procedure to achieve balanced, harmonious body proportions.
*modelPreparing for Your Liposuction Procedure
Proper preparation is essential for optimal results and a smooth recovery. Your surgeon will provide detailed pre-operative instructions during your consultation, but general preparation guidelines include:
- Quit smoking at least two weeks before surgery, as smoking impairs healing and increases complication risk
- Avoid blood-thinning medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain herbal supplements for at least one week before surgery
- Arrange transportation to and from your surgical facility, as you will not be able to drive after anesthesia
- Arrange post-operative care with someone to stay with you for the first night following surgery
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to your appointment
- Avoid eating or drinking after midnight the night before your procedure, as directed by your anesthesiologist
- Fill any prescribed medications before your surgery date
Your surgeon will review your medical history, current medications, and any allergies to ensure your safety during the procedure.
Liposuction Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from liposuction varies depending on the extent of the procedure and the number of areas treated. Understanding what to expect during the recovery period helps you plan accordingly and optimize your healing.
Immediate Post-Operative Period
Immediately following your procedure, you will wear elastic bandages or a compression garment over the treated areas. These compression garments serve multiple purposes: they minimize swelling, help mold your skin into its new contours, and provide support to the surgical sites. Your surgeon may place small temporary drains in the incisions to remove excess fluids or blood, reducing swelling and promoting healing.
Recovery Timeline
Most patients can return to light activities within 3 to 5 days and resume normal activities within 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the extent of the procedure. More strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks.
Post-Operative Instructions
Before your surgery, your surgeon will provide comprehensive recovery instructions that include:
- How to care for drains and surgical sites
- Which topical medications to apply to incisions
- Oral medications needed for pain management and healing
- Signs and symptoms to monitor for potential complications
- When to schedule follow-up appointments for post-operative examinations
- Compression garment wear schedule and duration
- Activity restrictions and gradual return to exercise
- Lymphatic massage as directed to reduce swelling and promote fluid drainage
Aftercare Protocols
Optimal aftercare promotes faster healing and better results:
- Wear compression garments as directed, typically for 2 to 4 weeks
- Attend all follow-up appointments at 3 to 5 days, 2 weeks, and monthly for the first 1 to 2 years
- Perform lymphatic massage as directed to reduce swelling and promote fluid drainage
- Take prescribed medications including pain management and antibiotics as directed
- Avoid strenuous activity for 4 to 6 weeks to allow proper healing
- Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to support tissue healing
- Avoid direct sun exposure to incision sites until fully healed
*Real PatientLiposuction Results and Timeline
Understanding the timeline for results helps set realistic expectations and allows you to appreciate the gradual improvements in your appearance.
Immediate Results
You will notice some improvement in body contours immediately following your procedure, though initial results are partially obscured by post-operative swelling and fluid retention. Many patients report feeling more confident even in this early stage, knowing that the fat has been permanently removed.
Progressive Improvement
Results continue to improve as swelling subsides over the following weeks and months. Most patients see significant improvement within 4 to 6 weeks, with continued refinement visible up to 3 to 6 months post-operatively. Some patients continue to see subtle improvements for up to one year as the skin fully remodels and contracts.
Long-Lasting Results
Liposuction results are permanent in the treated areas, as the procedure removes fat cells that do not regenerate. However, maintaining your results requires commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Weight gain following liposuction will result in fat accumulation in untreated areas, as remaining fat cells throughout the body can expand. Patients who maintain stable weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet enjoy long-lasting, natural-looking results.
Why Choose New York Plastic Surgical Group for Liposuction
Our Legacy of Excellence
New York Plastic Surgical Group stands apart as the largest and longest-running private academic plastic surgery practice in the United States, with a legacy of excellence spanning over 75 years. Founded in 1948, our practice has continuously evolved to incorporate the latest surgical techniques and technologies while maintaining the highest standards of patient care.
Our Surgeons and Credentials
Our team includes more than 20 plastic surgeons, each trained at prestigious medical institutions including Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, major university medical centers, and leading plastic surgery programs. Many of our surgeons hold leadership positions in national plastic surgery organizations and contribute to the advancement of the field through research, publications, and teaching.
Collectively, our surgeons perform over 400 liposuction procedures each year, reflecting the depth of experience that comes with a high-volume, multi-specialty plastic surgery practice. This breadth of clinical exposure allows our team to tailor techniques to a wide range of patient needs and aesthetic goals.
Facility Accreditation and Safety Standards
Our surgical facilities in Manhattan and Garden City are fully accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities, Inc. (AAAASF), a distinction that signifies our commitment to the highest standards of surgical care, patient safety, and facility standards. We undergo rigorous re-evaluation every three years to maintain this accreditation.
AAAASF accreditation means:
- Comprehensive facility inspections and compliance with 100% of established standards
- Advanced surgical equipment and technology
- Rigorous infection control and sterilization protocols
- Qualified nursing and support staff
- Emergency preparedness and patient safety protocols
- Ongoing quality assurance and improvement programs
Comprehensive Approach to Patient Care
We believe in customizing every liposuction procedure to each patient’s unique anatomy, aesthetic goals, and desired outcomes. Our surgeons take time during consultations to understand your concerns, discuss realistic expectations, and develop a personalized treatment plan. Whether you’re interested in traditional liposuction, advanced techniques like Vaser Liposuction, or combination procedures with skin tightening, we have the expertise to deliver exceptional results.
Academic and Teaching Contributions
New York Plastic Surgical Group operates an accredited plastic surgery residency training program, demonstrating our commitment to advancing the field and training the next generation of plastic surgeons. Our surgeons contribute to the advancement of plastic surgery through peer-reviewed publications, presentations at national conferences, and participation in professional organizations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Liposuction
Is liposuction a weight loss procedure?
No, liposuction is not a weight loss solution. It is designed to remove isolated pockets of fat that do not respond to diet and exercise. Ideal candidates are within 30% of their ideal body weight. If you are significantly overweight and seeking weight loss, your surgeon may recommend bariatric surgery or other weight loss approaches in addition to or instead of liposuction.
How much does liposuction cost?
The cost of liposuction in NYC varies based on the number of areas treated, the extent of fat removal, the specific techniques used, and the surgeon’s experience. During your consultation, your surgeon will provide a comprehensive treatment plan with detailed pricing and information about financing options and payment plans to make the procedure accessible.
What is the difference between liposuction and a tummy tuck?
Liposuction removes excess fat from beneath the skin, while a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) removes excess skin and tightens abdominal muscles. Many patients benefit from combining both procedures to achieve optimal contouring of the midsection. Your surgeon will recommend the best approach based on your specific concerns and anatomy.
Can I combine liposuction with other plastic surgery procedures?
Yes, liposuction is frequently combined with other cosmetic procedures to achieve comprehensive body contouring. Common combinations include:
- Liposuction with Renuvion skin tightening
- Liposuction with tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)
- Liposuction with breast surgery
- Liposuction as part of a mommy makeover (combining multiple body contouring procedures)
Combining procedures can enhance overall results and may reduce total recovery time compared to staged procedures.
What are the risks and complications of liposuction?
Like all surgical procedures, liposuction carries some risks, though serious complications are uncommon when performed by qualified surgeons in accredited facilities. Potential risks include:
- Infection (minimized through sterile technique and prophylactic antibiotics)
- Bleeding or hematoma formation
- Fluid accumulation (seroma)
- Temporary numbness or altered sensation
- Contour irregularities or asymmetry
- Skin laxity or loose skin
- Rare complications including fat embolism or deep vein thrombosis4
Your surgeon will discuss all risks and complications during your consultation and explain the precautions taken to minimize these risks. Choosing a plastic surgeon in an accredited facility significantly reduces complication rates.
How long do liposuction results last?
Liposuction results are permanent in the treated areas, as fat cells do not regenerate. However, maintaining your results requires commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Weight gain following liposuction will result in fat accumulation in untreated areas. Patients who maintain stable weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet enjoy long-lasting results.
Where can I find liposuction near me?
New York Plastic Surgical Group offers liposuction at multiple convenient locations throughout New York City and Long Island. Our Manhattan office is located on the Upper East Side, and our Long Island facility in Garden City serves patients from Nassau County, Suffolk County, and surrounding areas. We also have locations in Babylon and other convenient areas. With over 75 years of experience and a team of more than 20 plastic surgeons, we are uniquely positioned to deliver exceptional liposuction results. Schedule your consultation today to discuss your aesthetic goals with one of our experienced surgeons.
Contact New York Plastic Surgical Group
If you are interested in learning more about liposuction and how it can help you achieve your aesthetic goals, we invite you to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced plastic surgeons. During your consultation, we will evaluate your concerns, discuss your desired outcomes, and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
1 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 2024 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/news/statistics/2024/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2024.pdf. Accessed January 21, 2026.
2 Mayo Clinic. Liposuction. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/liposuction/about/pac-20384586. Accessed January 21, 2026.
3 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Liposuction Candidates. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/liposuction/candidates. Accessed January 21, 2026.
4 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. What are the risks of liposuction? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/liposuction/safety. Accessed January 21, 2026.
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