FAQ: Liposuction

Liposuction is a body contouring procedure that removes stubborn fat from specific areas of the body. We use liposuction to help patients refine their shape when diet and exercise are not fully addressing certain areas.

A good candidate for liposuction is typically close to a stable weight, in good general health, and looking to address localized fat rather than overall weight loss. During your consultation, we evaluate your goals, anatomy, and medical history to determine if liposuction is right for you.

Liposuction can treat areas such as the abdomen, flanks, hips, thighs, arms, back, chin, and other regions where stubborn fat collects. We customize the treatment plan based on where you want more definition and balance.

Liposuction is not meant to be a weight loss procedure. Liposuction is best used to contour targeted areas and remove fat that has not responded well to healthy habits.

During liposuction, small incisions are made near the treatment area, and a thin tube called a cannula is used to remove unwanted fat. Dr. Bermudez focuses on careful shaping so the treated area looks smoother and more proportionate.

Traditional liposuction removes fat through suction, while VASER liposuction uses ultrasonic energy to help break up fat before removal. At our San Francisco practice, Dr. Bermudez can discuss which option may be best suited for your body type and goals.

The length of liposuction depends on the number and size of the areas being treated. Many liposuction procedures are completed in a few hours, but we will give you a more specific estimate during your consultation.

During your liposuction consultation in San Francisco, CA, Dr. Bermudez reviews your goals, examines the areas you want to improve, and discuss your options in detail. We also explain the procedure, recovery, risks, and what kind of results may be realistic for you.

Recovery after liposuction varies by patient and treatment area. Many patients can return to light daily activities within several days, although swelling, bruising, and soreness are expected during the early healing period.

Some improvement may be noticeable soon after liposuction, but swelling can take time to resolve. Most patients see their results continue to refine over several weeks to months as the body heals.

The fat cells removed during liposuction are permanently removed from the treated area. However, patients still need to maintain a stable weight because remaining fat cells can enlarge with future weight gain.

Liposuction removes fat, but it does not significantly tighten loose skin. If a patient has excess skin or poor skin elasticity, we may discuss whether another procedure would better support their goals.

Yes, liposuction can sometimes be combined with other body contouring procedures. At our San Francisco practice, we may discuss combining treatments if it can help create a more balanced result and is appropriate for your health and surgical plan.

Liposuction is a surgical procedure, so it does carry risks. We take safety seriously by reviewing your medical history, explaining possible risks, and creating a treatment plan that is appropriate for you.

Patients choose Kenneth Bermudez, M.D. for liposuction in San Francisco, CA because we provide personalized care, detailed consultations, advanced technology, and a thoughtful approach to body contouring. Our goal is to help patients feel informed, comfortable, and confident throughout the process.