What to Know About Liposuction: A Guide from Dr. Victoria Aimé

Liposuction is one of the most requested cosmetic procedures worldwide—but despite how common it is, many patients still have important questions about what it involves, how it works, and what to expect before and after surgery. At Metropolitan Plastic Surgery, we don’t just remove fat—we focus on body contouring to bring out the best version of you.

If you’re considering liposuction, here’s what you need to know.

Liposuction Is Not Weight Loss Surgery

Let’s get one thing clear: liposuction is not a weight loss procedure. Instead, it’s a powerful tool for body sculpting—targeting stubborn areas that don’t respond to diet or exercise. The goal is to enhance your natural silhouette and help you feel more confident in your skin.

‍What Happens During Your Consultation?

Your initial consultation is all about clarity and partnership. We’ll talk through:

• Your goals and the areas that bother you
• Timeline considerations (like events or travel)
• Your budget and support system for recovery
• Any prior medical history, medications, or allergies

I’ll also determine if liposuction is appropriate for you. This may not be the best fit if you’re on blood thinners, have clotting disorders, or expect major weight loss from the procedure.

Awake or Asleep: Your Choice of Anesthesia

I often perform liposuction with the patient awake, using numbing medication and light oral sedation. This technique:

• Is safe and well tolerated by many patients
• Allows me to reposition you mid-procedure for more precise contouring
• Lets you walk out the same day—without grogginess

That said, if you prefer general anesthesia, we can absolutely accommodate you at a surgical center.

What Happens During the Procedure?

The process is straightforward but highly detail-oriented:

1. We clean and numb small entry points (2mm incisions).
2. A tumescent solution is injected—containing saline, lidocaine (numbing), and epinephrine (to minimize bleeding).
3. A vibrating cannula connected to suction gently removes fat from the targeted area.
4. Once complete, we place you in a compression garment to minimize swelling and support healing.

Recovery: What to Expect

• Drainage from the incisions is normal for 2–3 days and is managed with absorptive pads.
• Pain is usually described as muscle soreness—like doing a lot crunches or a hard workout.
• Most patients manage pain well with Tylenol and ibuprofen, not narcotics.
• You’ll need to wear your compression garment and pads for support and fluid absorption usually for 2 weeks.

We recommend gentle walking every hour while awake, and increased protein intake to aid wound healing. No supplements for one week pre- and post-op to reduce bleeding risk.

How Much Fat Can Be Removed?

In Arizona and many states, the limit for a safe outpatient liposuction procedure is 5 liters of fat and fluid combined. That’s a significant volume, but safety always comes first.

Timeline for Results

• Initial swelling subsides in 2–3 weeks
• 80% of healing occurs by 6 weeks
• Refinement continues for 3–6 months
• Final results are visible around 12 months

We’ll follow you closely with appointments at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months—because your long-term outcome matters just as much as your surgery day.

What About Scar Care and Massage?

At your 1-week visit, we’ll begin scar massage education to help prevent thickened scar tissue and ensure your skin lays smoothly over newly contoured areas. No need for a lipo roller or lymphatic massage unless you choose it—scar massage is key.

Will the Fat Come Back?

Fat cells that are removed are gone permanently. However, remaining fat cells can expand if you gain weight. We always leave a thin, natural layer of fat for smooth, healthy-looking results. Significant weight fluctuations can affect your contour, so maintaining your results means maintaining a stable weight.

Our Commitment to You

From the moment you schedule your consultation to your final follow-up photo at six months or one year, my team and I are with you every step of the way. Your safety, comfort, and confidence are our top priorities. Liposuction can be a transformative experience—when it’s done thoughtfully, artfully, and with you at the center of the plan.

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Dr. Victoria Aimé | Metropolitan Plastic Surgery | Scottsdale, AZ