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Procedure Resource

Liposuction

Educational overview of liposuction as contour surgery, including patient selection, skin quality and the limits of fat removal alone.

Liposuction is contour surgery, not a substitute for weight management and not a treatment for every surface irregularity.

Results depend on fat distribution, skin quality, underlying anatomy and the amount of correction attempted. Removing more fat does not necessarily create a better contour and can increase the risk of irregularity.

Key considerations

  • Localized contour versus generalized weight change.
  • Skin elasticity and the likelihood of retraction.
  • Existing asymmetry or prior liposuction.
  • The relationship between treated and untreated zones.
  • Whether lax skin or another structural issue requires a different operation.

For problems after prior liposuction, see correction after prior liposuction.