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Operating out of places as diverse as Europe, Thailand, Canada, Japan, China, and–of course–the United States, the cosmetic treatment known as liposuction is a very popular means of shedding unwanted body fat. In the United States alone, nearly half a million people pay for liposuction each year. As an extension of health and beauty care as well as personal grooming, liposuction’s growing popularity is a reflection of humanity’s built-in desire to improve their looks.

But what if you yourself chose to undergo liposuction? What would it actually be like? Typically patients start with a lengthy consultation with the surgeon, in which they can discuss their specific needs and learn more about the options and pricing available. Once they’ve settled on exactly what they want done, a surgery date is set. Many people are nervous about the pain, but while it is true that most doctors prefer not to administer a general anesthetic, numbing agents are used in its place, which allow the patient to remain conscious but block any feeling of pain. After these medications are administered, the doctor will push a small piece of equipment called a cannula in through the body through some strategically placed incisions (usually hidden within the present skin folds on the patient’s body). The cannula will move through the body, guided by the surgeon and not infrequently by computerized equipment as well, and will locate the unwanted fat. The fat is then quite literally sucked out of the body.

After the fat is removed, the doctor will sculpt and smooth out the skin, getting rid of extra loose skin and smoothing what fat remains into a more desirable shape.

After the surgery is over, the patient is usually not required to stay overnight for observation, because liposuction is less invasive then many other surgical procedures, and also because only local anesthetic is used. In fact, many patients are awake and alert enough to safely drive themselves home–affording an extra measure of confidentiality appreciated by some.

Due to its enormous popularity, the cosmetic surgery industry moves a lot of money. But it’s actually not incredibly expensive (which perhaps explains some of that popularity). Liposuction prices tend to start at around $1000 to $2000, although the amount and placement of fat as well as the specific technique used can vary it up quite a bit. New surgeons often charge less than established ones, although many people find the peace of mind from having an experienced surgeon worth the price.

Christian Heftel is a staff writer at http://www.liposuctionguide.com
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