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Liposuction in Washington, D.C.


Weight and hormone fluctuations, aging, genetics, or pregnancy can all cause the body to harbor fat differently, even becoming resistant to diet and exercise. These stubborn pockets of fat are frustrating, especially when you are diligent about your health. Liposuction is a fantastic body contouring procedure that targets very specific pockets of fat throughout the body, allowing our plastic surgeons to remove unwanted fat while smoothing and contouring the body for a slimming, natural-looking result.

The board-certified plastic surgeons at Center for Plastic Surgery offer advanced liposuction techniques and technologies to provide our Washington, D.C., patients with excellent body contouring results.

Woman in white underwear
Model
Center For Plastic Surgery

Our Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons

Frank P. Albino, MD

Frank P. Albino, MD

Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery

Christopher M. Fleury, MD

Christopher M. Fleury, MD

Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)

Arjun P. Kanuri, MD

Arjun P. Kanuri, MD

Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)

Samir S. Rao, MD, FACS

Samir S. Rao, MD, FACS

American Board of Plastic Surgery · Fellow, American College of Surgeons

Before & After Photos

Before abdominal liposuction, front view
After abdominal liposuction, front view
Patient underwent abdominal liposuction, fat grafting to hip dips and a petite bbl.

What Are the Benefits of Liposuction?

Liposuction has long held the spot for the most popular plastic surgery procedure, for good reason. This body contouring procedure is incredibly versatile, as it can be applied to nearly any part of the body, including the jawline and neck. It also allows your surgeon to create a more cohesive result by “blending” the contours of the body. It can be used alone or in combination with another procedure. Liposuction can achieve the following benefits:

  • Permanent removal of stubborn pockets of fat
  • Smooths and contours the body
  • Can be applied to nearly any part of the body

Our plastic surgeons successfully reduce the appearance of pockets of fat while also slimming and contouring the surrounding areas for a natural-looking result.


Am I a Candidate for Liposuction?

Liposuction cannot change underlying dimensions, but it can improve contour significantly when subcutaneous fat is the problem. The best liposuction candidates are those who are at or close to their ideal body weight and size yet still have persistent areas of unwanted fat accumulation. Candidates with good skin elasticity will likely see better results than those without.

The most common areas that benefit from liposuction include:

  • Abdomen
  • Hips
  • Thighs
  • Upper arms
  • Double chin and neck

We can also use the J-Plasma® treatment to smooth and tighten the skin after fat removal. If you feel that more than one area needs to be corrected, liposuction may be combined with other procedures such as a tummy tuck to maximize your overall benefits.

Real Liposuction Results From Our Patients

  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen, with liposuction, mommy makeover and brazilian butt lift (bbl)
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: man's abdomen, with liposuction and body lift
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen, with breast augmentation, breast lift, liposuction and mommy makeover
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen, with breast augmentation, liposuction and mommy makeover
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen, with breast reduction and liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen, with breast augmentation, breast lift, liposuction, mommy makeover and arm lift
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen, with liposuction and mommy makeover
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen, with liposuction and mommy makeover
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen, with breast reconstruction and liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after breast augmentation with lift: woman's breasts, with breast augmentation, breast lift, liposuction, tummy tuck and mommy makeover
  • Before and after brazilian butt lift (bbl): patient's buttocks and hips from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after brazilian butt lift (bbl): patient's buttocks and hips from the back, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with body lift, breast augmentation with lift and liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with breast augmentation with lift and liposuction
  • Before and after liposuction: woman's body
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with breast lift and liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen from the front, with liposuction and mommy makeover
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after liposuction: woman's body from the front
  • Before and after liposuction: patient's body from the front
  • Before and after liposuction: patient's body from the left side
  • Before and after liposuction: patient's body from the back
  • Before and after liposuction: patient's body from the front
  • Before and after liposuction: patient's body from the front
  • Before and after liposuction: patient's body from the left side
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after liposuction: patient's body from the front
  • Before and after liposuction: man's body
  • Before and after liposuction: patient's body
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen, with liposuction and breast reconstruction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after liposuction: patient's body from the front
  • Before and after liposuction: patient's body from the front
  • Before and after liposuction: patient's body
  • Before and after liposuction: woman's body from the front
  • Before and after liposuction: woman's body
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen, with breast reconstruction, breast augmentation with lift and liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: patient's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after mommy makeover: woman's body, with breast lift, tummy tuck and liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen from the front, with breast augmentation, liposuction and mommy makeover
  • Before and after liposuction: patient's body
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen from the front, with eyelid surgery, liposuction and brazilian butt lift (bbl)
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen from the front, with breast lift, breast reduction, liposuction and mommy makeover
  • Before and after tummy tuck: man's abdomen from the front, with liposuction and body lift
  • Before and after tummy tuck: woman's abdomen from the front, with liposuction
  • Before and after tummy tuck: man's abdomen from the front, with liposuction

See all 70 liposuction cases

What Are My Liposuction Options?

Our surgeons offer an innovative body contouring technique called SAFELipo®, which stands for “Separation – Aspiration – Fat Equalization.” It includes power-assisted liposuction performed with a special vibrating cannula that breaks up the fat. The SAFELipo® technique was originally designed to treat complications from heat-based liposuction methods until doctors realized that it was just a better way to do liposuction from the start. Our surgeons have found that the results achieved with this technique are unparalleled.

“Dr. Samir Rao is a highly skilled and kind plastic surgeon. I wouldn’t see anyone else. My liposuction result is nothing short of amazing.”

Combination Liposuction and Tummy Tuck

Liposuction is commonly paired with other body contouring procedures, including abdominoplasty. As a tummy tuck deals with the midsection, from just under the ribs to the lower abdomen, liposuction is very effective at creating a more cohesive result. While some fat can be surgically excised during a tummy tuck, liposuction allows your surgeon to contour more natural-looking angles and slopes for a more harmonious end result.

Combination Liposuction and Mommy Makeover

A Mommy Makeover is a procedure that incorporates multiple surgeries performed in tandem with the aim of improving a woman’s body after childbirth or aging. This procedure is, at face value, custom. However, liposuction is usually a key choice for many women, as its versatility allows our surgeons to smooth and contour the body, linking the discreet treatment areas for a more natural-looking result.

A Reputation Built on Results

  • I had breast lift with Motiva, mini implant and flank Lipo with Dr. Rao- He’s done a great job. I’m postop and feel the results have been really well done. It’ll take a while for me to see the final results, but I feel confident that they will look great. Bedside manner and expertise have all been top-notch.

    Bad Art with a Psychologist
  • I am 12 weeks post-lipo and I’m very satisfied with my results. I’m still healing, but I’m truly happy with how things are looking so far. It took me time to make my decision because I was genuinely scared, but I never felt any pressure from the team — only reassuring advice, patience, and encouragement. I shopped around and compared several locations, and CPS clearly stood out for providing the best customer service. Dr. Kanuri was patient and took the time to answer all of my questions, which made the entire experience very reassuring. The post-surgery follow-up has been on point — this is not a place that just collects payment and checks boxes. They truly make your care a personal commitment. The first days post-op, Dr. Kanuri personally followed up with me daily via text to ensure I was doing well and to see if I needed anything. Choosing CPS and Dr. Kanuri was the best decision I made for a boost of self-confidence. I highly recommend them — Dr. Kanuri is truly the best.

    Sandra Kamguia Kelle
  • ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I cannot say enough amazing things about Dr. Arjun Kanuri and the team at The Centers for Plastic Surgery! Dr. Kanuri performed liposuction, J-Plasma, and Aveli on me, and the results have been absolutely life-changing. He customized the combination of these procedures to match my goals — and I’m blown away by the transformation. I used to struggle with a perimenopausal belly and legs that always made me self-conscious. I hadn’t worn shorts in over 10 years — and now I’m confidently wearing them again for the first time in forever. I feel youthful, fit, and more like myself than I have in years! Throughout the process, he was incredibly warm, patient, and attentive. He really took the time to listen to what I wanted, explain the options, and walk me through everything. Any time I had a question or needed reassurance, he was there — supportive, kind, and professional. Dr. Kanuri isn’t just an exceptionally talented plastic surgeon — he truly cares. If you’re thinking about body contouring or anything similar, I wholeheartedly recommend him. I feel confident, comfortable, and happy in my skin again — and that’s priceless.

    Shelly Gray
  • Dr Fleury did a great job doing a breast revision using fat grafting from liposuction from my legs and torso. One of my breast implants ruptured in February ( 20 years old ) and Dr. Fleury and his staff made sure I had the orders in place for a mammogram which I was due for and making the surgery date as soon as possible. Erin, coordinator, was in great writing up the detailed surgery options. Alisa and Alexandra, nurses, were excellent in assisting at my office visits. Sherry, a long time Coordinator of CPS greeted us on day of surgery, Diane was a fantastic surgical nurse as was the anesthesiologist. Dr. Fleury, who is very positive and professional with a good sense of humor was clear about explaining the procedure did an excellent job with the surgery. Breasts are perfectly symmetrical and great job on using the slimming liposuction. 5 stars for CPS!!!

    Holly Morgan
  • Dr. Albino is truly a master of his craft and considered the top plastic surgeon in the DC area for good reason! I could not be happier with my results and experience. I have had multiple surgeries with Dr. Albino including facelift, blepharoplasty, laser skin resurfacing, breast lift, liposuction, and abdominoplasty. These were performed in different surgeries over the past 5 years but each time I have been thrilled with my results. The Center for Plastic Surgery is the all-around best practice with amazing staff. From the very first consultation, I felt confident with their expertise, attention to detail and genuine care. Whether I went in for skincare, injections, consultations for surgery, the entire staff was extremely knowledgeable, caring and true professionals. Everyone was so helpful, everything was always explained so well, lots of options available and always offered a clear understanding and expectation of desired results. I can't say enough good things about the Doctors and complete staff!

    carol D
  • I had a really good experience with Dr Albino. He did chin liposuction and breast augmentation for me. He is very professional and knowledgeable! Answered all my questions. It was easy to communicate with him. After the consultation I felt like I was in a good hands. His coordinator Shiloh was really nice and helpful . I am happy with the results!

    natallia stephenson
  • The best plastic surgeon in the DMV. The attention and care he gives his patients is world-class. He is very attentive to what his patient wants and is looking to accomplish. Dr. Kanuri did my mommy makeover (breast augmentation w/lift, tummy tuck w/ ab reconstruction, and lipo 360). In my mid-40s and I finally have the body of my dreams! I highly recommend him to anyone looking to enhance - improve - revise!

    Veronica Clarke
  • Dr Rao and his entire staff were so polite and professional right from the start! Any questions I had, even after the procedure were always answered quickly and thoroughly. From a surgical standpoint, the day of went off so smoothly, everyone was very professional and caring. I am beyond pleased with my results so far(at present I am 5 weeks post abdominoplasty with liposuction) and I cannot wait to see the final product as I continue to heal. The incision was so precise and healed beautifully and I have had minimal swelling! The office sends you home with a ton of information regarding getting ready for and recovering after procedure. I felt very prepared and not nervous at all when surgery day came along!

    Rachel Lawrence
  • Dr. Kanuri is incredibly kind and knowledgeable. He has done a couple procedures for me with incredible results. From tags removed to liposuction to Botox. I have talked to him about other procedures and feel confident about him conducting them.

    Sean O'Neill
  • I can't say enough good things about Dr. Albino and his exceptional staff. I spent a long time researching different surgeons in the Northern VA area. I am so happy I went with Dr. Albino. From my initial consult, pre-surgery appointment, day of surgery and post op appointments, I felt I was in good hands. Dr. Albino explains everything in detail, is reassuring, confident, and has a great sense of humor. I found the detailed post surgery care packet CPS provides to be extremely helpful. I also appreciated Dr. Albino reaching out the morning after my surgery to check on me. I had an extended abdominoplasty and lipo. After two c-sections years ago and recently losing a significant amount of weight, I had excess skin. I am now about eight weeks out and I could not be happier with the results - even better than I thought possible. Dr. Albino is at the top of his game and I highly recommend him!

    Terrie
  • Fantastic experience with Dr. Kanuri! He’s very kind, listens, makes you feel very comfortable, and let’s you ask lots of questions. I never felt rushed or pushed into anything. The results of my neck liposuction were fantastic, and the incision sites healed beautifully. Would recommend Dr. Kanuri highly!

    Kathryn Burgess
  • Thank you to Dr Kanuri and the team at CPS for the personalized and individualized care received during my procedure. I chose Dr Kanuri after I had received consultation from 3 different Drs.. From initial meeting Dr Kanuri was attentive and listened to my wants for a tummy tuck and liposuction. Dr Kanuri made me very comfortable by going over expectations and what to expect after, he was very professional and caring. I was very impressed on the second day post -Op when i saw my body in the mirror. Dr Kanuri and his team called and texted me several times daily to check on me upon getting home after the procedure and for the first three days post-op. Best money spent for me ,as a Nurse Practitioner I will recommend Dr Kanuri to anyone looking to do the same procedure.

    Adeola Alayande
  • I had a tummy tuck with liposculpture 11 days ago with Dr. Arjun Kanuri. I am very happy with the results and excited to see the doctor's excellent work in the future. God put me in the best hands; he is a wonderful human being. The staff at the clinic were very kind and wonderful people. I could give it more than 5 stars 🌟 and I would recommend it 100%. Thank you, Dr. Kanuri. I had a tummy tuck with liposculpture 11 days ago with Dr. Arjun Kanuri. I am very happy with the results and excited to see the doctor's excellent work in the future. God put me in the best hands; he is a wonderful human being. The staff at the clinic were very kind and wonderful people. I could give it more than 5 stars 🌟 and I would recommend it 100%.

    leslie guzmán
  • I am absolutely thrilled with my results! Dr Rao really knows how to contour a woman’s body. My lipo and tummy tuck look so good and I know as the months go on it will only get better! The staff is wonderful & Dr. Rao is very friendly and really spends time talking with you and listening to your concerns. He gave me so much input on how he was going to shape my figure. I couldn’t be happier! Just go for it & make your appointment with Dr. Rao, you won’t regret it!

    C D
  • I had visited quite a few notable surgeons, and was referred to Dr Kanuri, At our first meeting ,he seemed so young and I mentally wondered if I had made the wrong decision. Well the rest is history! Awesome choice and best decision. One of the best doctors with people skills, great bedside manners and an engaging personality. He answered all my questions, concerns and fears honestly but most importantly did amazing job with lipo. He checked in daily to see if all was well during the first two weeks and has been in touch (text, calls and email) regularly. I am so pleased, thankful and appreciative of meeting Dr Kanuri and his 'expertise. Go rock the world!!

    Ann Long
  • I recently had a mini tummy tuck and liposuction with Dr. Rao and he did an excellent job. Minimal scarring and a precise incision. He also explained everything in everyday terms so that the average person without a medical background could understand and feel comfortable.

    Elizabeth Durst
  • Dr. Kanuri is incredible – like any addict, I started with injectables and then went all in with vaser lipo on arms, lipo 360, and legs and had the fat transferred to my breasts and hips. Best decision of my life to do this with Arjun. He answered all my questions before surgery and checked in daily post surgery. Can’t wait to have him do more!

    Marina Borshch
  • Highly recommend Dr. Rao and his team, they are the utmost of professionals. I had a "mommy makeover" (drainless tummy tuck with muscle repair, lipo of hips and back, and 520 cc breast augmentation (no lift)). The whole process... from consultation, my 'second guessing' appt, pre-op, and post-op has been nothing short of wonderful. Dr. Rao is a combination of caring, patient, and skillful. Also worth mentioning, his office manager Laramie is THE sweetest and all the nurses I met are fabulous. Seriously, dream team. If you are doing your research looking for a great surgeon, great experience, and great price... book a consultation with Dr. Rao! He, and his techniques, have exceeded my expectations.

    Amanda Floro
  • All I can say is WOW!!!! My experience with Dr. Albino was incredible. My procedure was an abdominoplasty with Lipo, and the results are amazing! I have a whole new body and have lost 12 pounds since surgery. HIs bedside manner is excellent. The booklet they give you walks you through every step of the way to include the roller coaster ride of feelings that you will experience. Recovery is no joke, so make sure you have an excellent support system. I'm glad I chose Dr. Albino for my procedure.

    Tomeka Symonds
  • I cannot begin to say enough wonderful things about Dr. Rao and the entire team at CPS! From my initial consultation to my surgery and then follow up, the experience was wonderful. Dr. Rao spent a good amount of time with me during my consultation to make sure he really understood what my goals were and making sure I was comfortable with what he was proposing. I never felt rushed, and he took the time really explain what my procedure would entail. I could not be happier with my results (breast lift with augmentation, and tummy tuck with lipo) , Dr. Rao is truly an artist and pays attention to the tiniest details, which have a huge impact. My recovery was great as well, with minimal swelling and zero complications. Additionally, my scars are beautiful and barely noticeable. I have a renewed sense of confidence and would recommend Dr. Rao to any of my friends or family who are looking to have cosmetic procedures done.

    Erin Driscoll
  • Dr. Rao is beyond Amazing and I would recommend him to anyone. I am a runner and had issues with chafing on my inner thighs. I also had a small pooch that seemed to stay there even at my lowest weight. Dr. Rao, recommended liposuction and it has changed everything. Now I have a nice sculptured figure and couldn't be happier. I also felt very comfortable and well prepared with all of his staff. I am very happy I found Dr. Rao to guide me through it. Thank you CPS!

    Teresa Sawyer
  • It’s been 3 months since my tummy tuck surgery and I feel great! Dr. Rao did a TT with muscle repair and fixed my umbilical hernia and diastis recti. The surgery went very smoothly and my recovery has been pretty textbook. Dr. Rao did everything exactly as explained and I’m healing very well with no complications at all. I highly recommend Dr. Rao!

    Meredith Hartsock
  • Dr Rao is amazing! He has helped me through my breast reconstruction after having my double mastectomy! He did a tummy tuck for me as well and it looks amazing! Other doctors have commented to me about how great his work is and how straight his lines are! You will absolutely love him! Cannot recommend him enough! He is phenomenal!

    Jody Alston
  • Dr. Kanuri has exceptional surgical skills and was attentive both before and after the procedure. He is super professional, great attitude, speaks gently, and addressing every concern during my whole tummy tuck experience. Thank you so much, Dr. Kanuri! I'm so grateful and I feel so lucky to have had you as my doctor. Highly recommended! 👍

    Jing Cao
CPS Surgeon Team

ESTABLISHED EXCELLENCE

Choose the experts that locals know and trust. Our multigenerational practice includes board-certified plastic surgeons who provide the best possible care with state-of-the-art technology.

Chin Liposuction or KYBELLA®?

Patients with stubborn submental fullness, or a double chin, can benefit from treatment via liposuction or the FDA-approved non-surgical treatment, KYBELLA®. KYBELLA® is the only FDA-approved injection for eliminating double chins. While liposuction is a tried-and-true method of fat removal, some patients prefer a non-surgical option. We’ll break down the pros and cons of both below.

Profile of a young woman with her hair up

Chin Liposuction vs. KYBELLA® Candidates

Liposuction: Have moderate to severe submental fullness and/or fat along the neck, with moderate skin elasticity.

KYBELLA®: Have mild to moderate submental fullness, with good skin elasticity. Candidates should only have excess fat under the chin—KYBELLA® injections are not approved to treat any other location. Candidates who wish to avoid surgery usually choose KYBELLA® as a minimally invasive alternative.

Chin Liposuction vs. KYBELLA® Downtime and Results

Liposuction: Submental liposuction requires about a week of downtime, with most patients returning to normal activities after that point. Most patients will be cleared to resume more rigorous activities after about two weeks. Submental liposuction permanently removes subcutaneous fat under the chin, revealing the angles and contours of the patient’s lower face for a more youthful result.

KYBELLA®: There is no downtime associated with KYBELLA® injections. You will be able to resume normal activities immediately after your 30-minute session. Some patients will experience some redness and swelling at the injection site, but this is usually minimal. Patients can enjoy a smoother, more contoured chin after about two to four sessions, although some patients may need up to six sessions for desired results.a

How Is Liposuction Performed?

Your Liposuction Consultation

As with all of our procedures at Center for Plastic Surgery, liposuction is performed as an individualized procedure designed specifically for the patient. As such, the consultation is crucial in determining your surgical plan for liposuction. Your liposuction consultation is also your opportunity to get to know the surgeon who will be performing your procedure, ask them any questions you may have—especially regarding results—and voice any concerns you have.

Our body contouring experts are highly trained and experienced, and they also have your best interests in mind. Your plastic surgeon will walk you through the steps of the procedure, where your incisions will be placed, what type of anesthesia will be used—all of the details that piece together your surgical plan. They will also be able to advise you on some important decisions you’ll need to make, including where you would like to be treated and whether or not you want to combine liposuction with another procedure, such as a tummy tuck.

Our support staff will also be ready to prepare you for your role prior to your surgery, discussing compression garments, additional costs for medications if necessary, follow-up appointments, and financing information. At CPS, your entire process is streamlined for your peace of mind and continued support.


Fit woman sitting on a bath tub
Model

What Can I Expect From Liposuction Recovery?

Immediately after your liposuction procedure, you will be placed in an elastic support garment, similar to a girdle, while you are still asleep. In the case of facial liposuction, you will be given a compression strap under the chin, which serves a similar purpose. This garment will cover and compress the treated areas to limit fluid accumulation and provide gentle, balanced pressure, assuring a smooth final contour. You will wear this garment continuously for two to four weeks, except when bathing.

Your surgeon will give you specific aftercare instructions, which are crucial to your safe and comfortable recovery. Be sure to follow these instructions to the best of your ability to ensure that you see the best possible results following liposuction. Additionally, liposuction recovery and aftercare will vary greatly—more than other procedures—to account for the differences in treatment areas. You will have to take different precautions after submental liposuction than abdominal liposuction, for example.

Some patients experience bruising and swelling after liposuction. Others experience “skin rippling.” These conditions will improve considerably in the first few weeks, but results can take up to three months or longer to be fully visible. While experiences vary, most patients can resume normal activities, including walking and driving, within five to seven days. You should postpone strenuous exercise for three weeks.

Liposuction Recovery Timeline

You will likely experience a different recovery process than the following, but as a general outline, here’s what liposuction recovery might look like:
Week One:
  • Most patients will experience swelling, bruising, and the majority of their discomfort in the first four to seven days.
  • If used, drains, dressings, and sutures will likely be removed after the first week.
  • Patients must wear their compression garments day and night unless showering.
  • Patients should slowly incorporate light movement, such as walking, to improve circulation.
Week Two:
  • Patients are usually feeling much better at this point.
  • Depending on their jobs, many patients will be cleared to return to work.
  • Many patients continue to wear compression garments, limit exercise, and rest as much as possible.
Week Three:
  • Bruising should be significantly improved.
  • Swelling likely remains.
Month One:
  • Your surgeon will likely allow you to reduce your compression garment time, or clear you to remove it.
  • Patients may gradually increase their physical activity, as per their surgeon’s instructions.
Month Three and Beyond:
  • Swelling should be gone, or at least greatly reduced.
  • Final results may be visible, or almost visible.
  • Scars should become lighter and more flat.

Brooke’s Chin and Neck Liposuction, in Her Own Words

Transcript
Hi, my name is Brooke. I am a patient of Dr. Keri and I got a chin and neck liposection about five months ago. So, I would say about a few years ago, I started to notice an accumulation of fat under my neck. Um, I hadn't gained a ton of weight, so I wasn't really sure where it was coming from. Um, so I'd almost kind of just given up hope thinking that I could do anything that wouldn't be super super invasive. Um, and then I met with um Dr. Canary. Um, so I just decided to jump in head first and just try it out because obviously the other things hadn't worked for me in the past. Um, so this would be a guaranteed result in the end. Um, so I had my procedure under local anesthesia, so I was completely awake for it. And the whole time during the procedure, he was checking in on me, making sure that everything felt okay, nothing was feeling off or scary or if anything was uncomfortable, he was willing to numb even more. So that was super super comforting. And then after the procedure, um I would say the day of um I was a little like stiff and swollen, but I didn't have any excessive pain. I never took any of the pain medication afterwards. Now, I did prepare beforehand with um different like arnica tablets and things to make sure that my body would heal in a nicer way. That was with the suggestion of Dr. Kenery as well. So 2 days later, I was literally out and about walking around. Um, the only thing that you could tell was that I had just marks from the um, pen, but nothing else.

“I had my procedure under local anesthesia, so I was completely awake for it. And the whole time during the procedure, he was checking in on me.”

So I would say about a few years ago, I started to notice an accumulation of fat under my neck. I hadn’t gained a ton of weight, so I wasn’t really sure where it was coming from. So I’d almost kind of just given up hope thinking that I could do anything that wouldn’t be super super invasive. And then I met with [Dr. Kanuri].

I just decided to jump in head first and just try it out because obviously the other things hadn’t worked for me in the past. So this would be a guaranteed result in the end.

How Much Does Liposuction Cost?

The cost of liposuction in Washington, D.C., depends on the specifics of your surgical plan: the size, location, and number of treatment area(s), the type of anesthesia used, and whether or not you have combined liposuction with another procedure.

At CPS, liposuction prices start at $7,000 per individual area of the body. The cost will be determined at the time of consultation based on the particulars of the patient’s case. You will receive a personalized cost estimate after your consultation with one of our providers.

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Liposuction Frequently Asked Questions

Is liposuction permanent?

When fat cells are removed from the body, as with liposuction, they are permanently removed—fat cells do not “grow back.” So, in this sense, liposuction is permanent. However, the surrounding fat cells can expand, resulting in subsequent fat accumulation in the treatment area.

That being said, with proper diet and exercise, liposuction is readily maintained and can be a long-lasting, even permanent, procedure.

How can I maintain the results of my liposuction?

One of the reasons we require candidates to be close to their ideal weight is that liposuction is not a weight loss solution. It is a body contouring procedure that refines and enhances the body’s curves by removing very specific pockets of fat. And because fat cells can continue to expand and reverse the effects of liposuction, maintaining your results is very important.

Some ways you can maintain your liposuction results are through diet and exercise. Find what works for you and be consistent. Maintaining your liposuction results can be as simple as incorporating good health habits early on in your process (maybe even before your consultation!) that can easily be carried past recovery and into your daily routine.

How can I avoid liposuction scars?

Unfortunately, any time an incision is made on the body–just like with any cut or injury–there is a risk for scarring. The good news is that liposuction requires very small incisions. However, avoiding overly visible scars is a multistep process that involves both your surgeon and you.

For our part, our surgeons only make incisions where absolutely necessary and in the most subtle locations possible. Additionally, our surgeons are highly skilled and make extremely careful and meticulous incisions and sutures to ensure a small scar.

The rest is up to you! Proper incision care is key—listen to your surgeon’s instructions carefully. You can also limit visible scarring by avoiding unnecessary sun exposure. Lastly, once your scar is fully healed, you can take additional steps for scar care, such as using scar ointments, silicone scar patches, and even laser resurfacing.

I have loose skin. Will this affect my liposuction result?

Skin laxity, or loose skin, is a common effect of the aging process, but it can also vary based on a person’s genetics. Eliminating fat from the body, too, can result in the skin remaining loose or stretched out, which is a common issue with liposuction. Compression garments are key in helping the skin “snap back” into place, but patients with more moderate skin laxity may not be candidates for liposuction.

However, there are always options. J-Plasma® skin tightening is a minimally invasive treatment that our surgeons commonly pair with surgical procedures to treat the skin and improve the final surgical outcome. If you would like to assess your skin laxity or your options for skin tightening either before, after, or alongside liposuction, our experienced board-certified surgeons will be happy to advise you.

Can you lose weight with liposuction?

The short answer is, unfortunately, no. The focus of liposuction isn’t weight loss but to remove pockets of fat that diet and exercise alone won’t fix. Your surgeon will tell you the weight of the fat removed. We suggest you aim to lost that amount of weight within 3 to 4 months, losing more than that will produce even better results.

However, depending on the patient, liposuction may involve removing a large amount of fatty tissue. Some cases may require removing up to 5 liters of fat, but surgeons stay below this limit to avoid potential risks and complications. 

From our article: Does Liposuction Help You Lose Weight?

What areas can liposuction slim down?

Liposuction can be used on many areas of the body, including the arms, belly, thighs, and more. The procedure uses a thin tube or cannula to suction out unwanted fat, allowing it to target specific trouble spots with ease. Fat cells suctioned out during liposuction are permanently removed and will not “grow back.” A healthy lifestyle prevents the remaining fat cells from growing in size and helps you maintain your ideal results. 

From our article: Does Liposuction Help You Lose Weight?

What happens during liposuction?

During liposuction, your doctor will make a small incision near the area of your unwanted fat. They will then insert a thin metal tube—called a cannula—and begin suctioning out excess fat cells. Because the incisions and cannula are small, any resulting scars or marks are usually inconspicuous. Treatment typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on the size of the treated area. 

Here at Center for Plastic Surgery, we’re proud to offer the latest liposuction technology for our patients. We utilize an innovative technique known as SAFElipo® that includes power-assisted liposuction and a special vibrating cannula, making treatment a smoother experience. 

From our article: Boost Your Fitness Goals With Liposuction

Can I have liposuction and a tummy tuck together?

Yes, and many patients do. Combining liposuction with a tummy tuck is actually quite common. During a tummy tuck, your surgeon may use liposuction in surrounding areas, such as the flanks or hips, to improve overall contouring and proportion. Doing them together means one surgery, one anesthesia, one recovery.

It’s not always necessary, but for patients with both excess fat in the surrounding areas and loose abdominal skin, combining the two procedures often yields the most balanced, natural-looking results.

From our article: Difference Between Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction

Can liposuction help you live a healthier life?

Unwanted fat can make you feel self-conscious and hold you back in some areas of life. You may feel uneasy wearing tight-fitting clothes or working out at the local gym. Many liposuction patients report a renewed sense of confidence after their body contouring procedure. After sculpting their body, they are more comfortable in their clothes and find going to the gym much more enjoyable. 

Liposuction may not be a weight loss procedure, but it can inspire healthy choices and long-term change. When combined with an active lifestyle, liposuction can create a positive effect on both body and mind.

From our article: Does Liposuction Help You Lose Weight?

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Interested in Liposuction in Washington, D.C.?

If you would like to learn more about how this versatile procedure can help reduce stubborn pockets of fat and smooth the body for cohesive contours, call Center for Plastic Surgery today at (301) 652-7700 or fill out our online contact form to get started.

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