Liposuction Types, Costs, Myths and More

There are several different types of liposuction, including tumescent, UAL, laser-assisted, power-assisted and ThermaLipo liposuction. Learn more about each, including average costs and how to help pay for the procedure.

Liposuction goes by many different names. You may read about it as liposculpture, lipectomy, lipoplasty or just lipo, but it's all the same type of procedure that targets and removes unwanted, fatty tissue.

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a type of cosmetic procedure that removes excess fat by using suction and contours specific areas of the body that appear out of proportion. Sometimes referred to as lipo or body contouring, liposuction is most effective on healthy people who are close to their ideal weight but can't seem to get rid of stubborn bulges despite dieting and exercise.

History of liposuction

The first lipo-like procedures were performed back in the 1920s, but the results didn't turn out well. The liposuction procedures that are practiced today came about in 1982 by a French surgeon, Dr. Yves-Gérard Illouz. His modern techniques produced good results with fewer adverse effects.

How Does Liposuction Work?

Liposuction can be performed on just about any area of the body that contains excess fat — from head to toe! Liposuction can be performed alone or along with other plastic surgery procedures, such as:

• Mommy makeover
• Facelift
• Breast augmentation
• Tummy tuck

During the procedure, doctors use special suction tools to remove fatty tissue. Depending on the areas treated and the amount of fat, liposuction can take several hours.

Types of Liposuction

Liposuction is considered safe and effective, and the method you choose depends on the areas being treated, your cosmetic goals and personal preferences. During your consultation, your doctor can review the different options with you to determine the liposuction technique best suited for your needs and cosmetic goals.

There are a variety of different types of liposuction, including tumescent, ultrasound-assisted, laser-assisted, power-assisted and ThermaLipo liposuction.

1. Tumescent liposuction

Tumescent liposuction is the most common type of liposuction. After small incisions are made in treatment areas, a shot of fluid is injected, causing the targeted tissue to swell. This makes it easier for the cosmetic surgeon to control and remove the fatty tissue, which is sucked out with a vacuum connected to the cannula.

2. Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL)

Ultrasound-assisted liposuction uses a low-frequency ultrasound device attached to the cannula. This helps liquefy the fat, which is then removed with a suction tube. Sometimes referred to as VASER liposuction, this type of liposuction helps remove fat in dense areas like the upper back.

3. Laser-assisted liposuction, or SmartLipo®

Laser-assisted liposuction uses heat energy from a laser to melt fat and tighten skin. Because a smaller cannula is used in this type of liposuction, it's preferable for confined areas of the body like the chin, jowls and face.

4. Power-assisted liposuction

Power-assisted liposuction uses a special vibrating cannula to help break up and remove fatty tissue. This technique is often used to remove high volumes of fat faster than other methods

5. ThermaLipo

ThermaLipo is a more advanced liposuction treatment that combines a skin tightening procedure with tumescent and power assisted liposuction performed under local anesthesia. The result is minimal downtime, reduced scarring and smoother skin.

How Much Does Liposuction Cost?

The average cost of liposuction is $3,637.¹ This doesn't include costs for anesthesia, the surgery facility and related expenses.

1. However, liposuction costs vary by region and areas of the body being treated. Always consult with your plastic surgeon's office to determine your actual expenses.

Calculate the cost of liposuction surgery near you

Is Liposuction Permanent?

Yes, fat cells are permanently removed, but weight gain can bring new fat cells to areas of the body. To maintain your new shape, it's recommended that you follow a healthy diet and exercise routine.

Liposuction Recovery

Immediately following a liposuction procedure, patients may experience bruising or swelling during liposuction recovery — but most patients are back at work after a few days. Compression garments are typically worn for two to four weeks post-procedure. Final results can take about six months. Keep in mind that incisions are usually small enough that they do not leave noticeable scars.

Liposuction Myths

CareCredit Financing for Liposuction

Ready to revitalize your appearance and boost your confidence? The CareCredit credit card makes it easy to pay for liposuction and related expenses not covered by health insurance.* Apply today and use our Acceptance Locator to find a doctor or cosmetic surgeon near you that accepts CareCredit so you can stop dreaming and start living your best life. Continue your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App to manage your CareCredit account, find a provider on the go and easily access the Well U hub for more great articles, podcasts and videos.

Expert Reviewer

Dr. Brian Reagan, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Dr. Brian Reagan is a board-certified plastic surgeon practicing at CosmetiCare Plastic Surgery Center & MedSpa in Corona Del Mar, California, which he founded in 1982. He has 30 years of experience, with more than two decades in private practice. He specializes in cosmetic plastic surgery and the science of wound healing and trauma.

He trained at Cornell Medical College, the New York Hospital, University of California at San Diego and the University of Texas at South Western in Dallas. He has received several awards for his work in plastic surgery and was also part of the cast of the Real Housewives of Orange County, Season 14.

Author Bio

Kristin Driver is a Digital Writer with CareCredit. She specializes in writing about health care, finances and pet care. Her work has been published by Cedars-Sinai, UCLA Health, Stanford Health Care, Risk & Insurance, Modern Health Care, Risk Insider, CIO Review and more.