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What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that aims to remove excess fat deposits from specific body areas. It involves making small incisions in the target area and using suction to break up and remove unwanted fat cells. Liposuction is typically performed to contour and reshape the abdomen, thighs, hips, arms, and neck.

What is the cost of liposuction? 

  • Liposuction of the abdomen starts at $4,000, but the final cost depends on various factors. Your exact price will be determined during your consultation.
  • Liposuction 360, targeting multiple areas, starts at $8,500. The ultimate cost varies based on individual factors, and you will receive an exact price during your consultation.

Video: Is Liposuction for Me?

Dr. Shah and Dr. Farber evaluate whether liposuction surgery is right for you.

Dr. Shah & Dr. Farber

What are the Areas of the Body Where Liposuction Can Be Performed?

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Liposuction Before & After Photos

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Am I a Good Candidate for Liposuction?

  • Patients who are healthy and within 30% of their ideal weight 
  • Patients who have deposits of fat that won’t go away despite proper diet and exercise 
  • Patients should be healthy and non-smokers. Smoking can significantly affect healing after surgery. 
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How is Liposuction Performed?

Liposuction can be performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia. Liposuction is performed through multiple small incisions that are, at the most, 5 millimeters long. A dilute local anesthetic solution is placed in the areas to be treated prior to starting the fat removal process.

Cannulas are used to dislodge the fat, while power-assisted suction is used to remove the fat from the body. Immediately after the procedure, you will be placed in compression garments. It is common to have some swelling, bruising, and retention of fluid right after liposuction in San Antonio

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What is the Recovery Like From Liposuction in San Antonio? 

  • During your recovery period after liposuction:
  • There will be bruising, swelling, and numbness in the treatment area.
  • You will have a compression garment to wear that will help minimize swelling.
  • Cool packs will also help reduce these effects and improve healing.
  • Do not exert yourself, but do light walking to stimulate circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.

Week-by-Week Recovery after Liposuction:

Week 1:

  • Return to sedentary work.
  • Focus on resting and healing.
  • Follow a healthy diet and stay hydrated with plenty of fluids.

Week 2:

  • Resume moderate exercise.
  • Continue to prioritize a nutritious diet and maintain hydration.

Weeks 3 & 4:

  • Noticeable reduction in swelling.
  • Continue with moderate exercise, gradually increasing intensity.

Weeks 5 & 6:

  • Most of the swelling should be gone.
  • You may resume strenuous exercise.
  • Continue maintaining a healthy lifestyle for optimal results.

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Dr. Amita Shah

Board-Certified Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon

Dr. Amita Shah is a double-board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who specializes in breast and body aesthetic and reconstructive surgeries.

Learn More About Dr. Shah

Dr. Amita Shah

Dr. Scott Farber

Board-Certified Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon

Dr. Farber performs custom surgeries for the face, breast, and body. His specialties include a combination of both aesthetic and reconstructive procedures.

Learn More About Dr. Farber

Dr. Scott J. Farber

Liposuction FAQs

What do I have to wear after surgery?

Are my results permanent?

I have saggy skin, will liposuction help?

When can I resume normal activity and exercise?

Will my insurance cover liposuction in San Antonio?

What should be understood about liposuction's capabilities and limitations?

What are the limitations, risks, and complications of liposuction surgery?

What are the types of anesthesia for liposuction surgery?

What to expect during your consultation?

What do I have to wear after surgery?

You may need to wear compression garments after your surgery. You will be fitted for these garments prior to your surgery so you have them available right away. As the swelling goes down and your new figure is revealed, you may need a newer, smaller garment. The garment is usually worn for at least 6 weeks, but it can be worn longer if needed.

Are my results permanent?

The results are technically permanent but only if you maintain a stable weight.

I have saggy skin, will liposuction help?

Liposuction removes excess fat but does not tighten skin. If you have hanging skin, liposuction may make it worse. It is possible to do liposuction to improve the contour of the area and then remove the skin in the same or in a separate procedure.

When can I resume normal activity and exercise?

You can start light exercise two weeks after surgery when most of the swelling and bruising has gone down. You can return to all activities without restriction 6 weeks after your surgery.

Will my insurance cover liposuction in San Antonio?

Insurance does not cover cosmetic liposuction.

What should be understood about liposuction's capabilities and limitations?

Liposuction is not a weight loss surgery; the results are less drastic than other surgical procedures. However, it can help with problem areas. Once the fat is removed, the surrounding skin will somewhat shrink. An exception to this is patients with damaged or extremely loose skin (such as skin with a lot of stretch marks). In these cases, removal of the excess skin is recommended. Liposuction is not a cellulite treatment

What are the limitations, risks, and complications of liposuction surgery?

The risks of liposuction include:

  • Reactions to anesthesia
  • Bruising
  • Changes in skin sensation
  • Damage to surrounding structures
  • Clots
  • Irregular contours
  • Asymmetry
  • Persistent swelling
  • Rippling or loose skin
  • Worsening of cellulite
  • Need for revision

As with any surgery, you can minimize risks by having an experienced plastic surgeon perform your procedure.

What are the types of anesthesia for liposuction surgery?

The type of anesthesia used will be determined by your surgeon based on the extent of fat removal, the patient's medical history, and other factors. Here are the types of anesthesia commonly used:

  • General anesthesia: May be necessary if large amounts of fat are removed or the procedure is expected to be longer than average.
  • Local anesthesia with sedation: Numbs the area while sedation relaxes the patient, allowing them to remain awake during the procedure.

Once the anesthetic has taken effect, a thin cannula is inserted through the incisions to suction out the unwanted fat.

What to expect during your consultation?

Before your consultation for liposuction in San Antonio & Boerne, TX, review our website's procedures to become familiar with the terms we'll use. During your visit:

  • We'll discuss your concerns and goals and recommend tailored treatment options.
  • A unique surgical plan will be developed based on your needs.
  • We'll review your comprehensive medical history since accuracy is vital for surgical outcomes.
  • A physical exam will be conducted, including measurements and possibly pre-operative photos.

Post-consultation, you'll gain access to notes via the patient portal. If inactive, our staff can help you set it up.

Contact Hill Country Plastic Surgery – We are Here For You.

As life progresses, your body experiences changes that can be seen and changes that remain unseen. These may limit your abilities and your level of confidence even if you still feel as though you can take on the world. At Hill Country Plastic Surgery, our board-certified surgeons, Dr. Farber and Dr. Shah understand this and have devoted themselves to journeying beside each of our patients to help them achieve transformation. 

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