What is liposuction? +
Liposuction is a surgical body-contouring procedure that removes stubborn, diet-resistant fat deposits from targeted areas of the body. At Svelta Plastic Surgery, we offer traditional liposuction, HD (High-Definition) liposuction (Svelta HD Sculpt™), VASER lipo, laser-assisted lipo, and Lipo 360, each suited to different goals and treatment areas.
Am I a good candidate for liposuction? +
Good candidates are within 10–30 lbs of their goal weight, have good skin elasticity, have specific pockets of stubborn fat that don't respond to diet and exercise, are in good overall health, and are non-smokers or willing to stop at least 4 weeks before surgery. Liposuction is a body-contouring tool, not a weight-loss procedure.
What's the difference between traditional, VASER, laser-assisted, and Lipo 360 liposuction? +
Traditional (tumescent) liposuction removes fat through a cannula and suction. VASER uses ultrasonic energy to break up fat before removal, which can mean less bruising and better skin retraction. Laser-assisted liposuction (including SmartLipo) uses laser heat to liquefy fat and stimulate some skin tightening, usually under local anesthesia. Lipo 360 treats the full circumference of the midsection, abdomen, waist, flanks, and lower back, in one session rather than a single area. Your surgeon will recommend the technique that fits your goals and treatment area.
What areas of the body can be treated with liposuction? +
Liposuction can treat the abdomen and waist, flanks and love handles, thighs and knees, arms and back, neck and chin, and chest. Most patients target one or two specific areas, though Lipo 360 addresses the entire midsection in a single session.
How much fat can be safely removed in one session? +
The safe volume depends on your health, the areas treated, and anesthesia type, and is determined by your surgeon at your consultation. Larger-volume cases are typically performed under general anesthesia in an accredited facility, while smaller, targeted areas may be treated with local anesthesia.
What happens during a liposuction consultation? +
Your surgeon assesses your fat distribution, skin elasticity, and overall body composition to determine which technique will produce the smoothest result, and whether combining liposuction with another procedure, such as a tummy tuck, BBL, or Lipo 360, would improve your outcome. You'll leave with a specific technique recommendation and cost estimate.
Is liposuction painful? +
Most patients report manageable discomfort rather than significant pain, controlled with prescribed medication during the first few days. Techniques performed under local anesthesia, such as laser-assisted lipo, are generally associated with less post-operative discomfort than larger-volume procedures under general anesthesia.
What type of anesthesia is used for liposuction? +
This depends on the technique and treatment area. Smaller, targeted areas treated with laser-assisted or traditional liposuction are often performed under local anesthesia. Larger or combined procedures, including Lipo 360, are typically performed under general anesthesia in our A+ accredited surgical facility.
How long does liposuction surgery take? +
A single-area procedure typically takes 1–3 hours. Lipo 360 or liposuction combined with another procedure can run longer, 4–6 hours is common for combination surgeries. Your surgeon will give you a specific estimate once your treatment plan is finalized.
How long is liposuction recovery? +
Most patients return to work within 1–2 weeks and full activity within 4–6 weeks. Compression garments are worn for 4–6 weeks to support healing and skin retraction. Laser-assisted techniques often allow a faster return to light activity than traditional or Lipo 360 procedures.
When will I see my final liposuction results? +
Initial swelling subsides over the first few weeks, but final results typically become visible at 3–6 months once residual swelling has fully resolved and the skin has settled into its new contour.
Are liposuction results permanent? +
Yes. Fat cells removed by liposuction do not grow back. Maintaining a stable weight after your procedure preserves your results long-term; significant weight gain can still affect the treated and surrounding areas.
Will I have scars after liposuction? +
Liposuction is performed through small incisions, typically a few millimeters, placed in inconspicuous locations. Scarring is minimal and fades significantly over several months.
Can I combine liposuction with other procedures? +
Yes. Liposuction is commonly combined with a tummy tuck, BBL, or as part of a full Mommy Makeover. Lipo 360 itself is often paired with a BBL, using the harvested fat to enhance the buttocks in the same surgery.
What is the cost of liposuction in Miami? +
At Svelta Plastic Surgery, liposuction starts at $3,000, with per-area pricing generally ranging $500–$4,500 depending on technique and areas treated. VASER, laser-assisted, and Lipo 360 have their own price ranges based on the technology and scope involved. Financing is available.
Can I finance my liposuction? +
Yes. We offer CareCredit and Affirm financing with low monthly payment options, plus an in-house layaway plan. Visit our Financing page or ask during your consultation for options tailored to your treatment plan.
