Nellie Movtchan, MDAesthetic & Reconstructive Surgery
Nellie Movtchan, MD

Body · Liposuction

Liposuction.
Refining areas that resist change.

Explore removing localized fat deposits that persist despite diet and exercise, with space to understand the procedure, its limits, and recovery.

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Illustrative concept photography; not a patient result
Illustrative concept photograph; not a patient result

Understanding the procedure

What it may address.

Liposuction removes localized fat through small incisions using a thin tube called a cannula. Common areas include the abdomen, flanks, thighs, arms, back, and under the chin. It is not a weight-loss treatment, and it does not tighten loose skin or treat cellulite. Skin quality affects how the area settles.

Other body procedures

Is it right for you?

A decision made individually.

A consultation considers your medical history, weight stability, skin elasticity, and expectations. Bring your questions and discuss whether surgery fits your health and plans.

  • Discuss conditions or medications that may affect healing.
  • Be open about smoking or nicotine use.
  • Share whether your weight has been stable.
  • Understand both the possibilities and the limitations.

The consultation

Questions worth making time for.

Bring your medical history, prior procedures, medications, and the questions you most want answered.

Illustrative consultation scene; not Dr. Movtchan or her patients

  1. Your goals

    Describe the areas you notice and what you hope to change.

  2. Your options

    Discuss which areas are involved, skin quality, and whether another procedure may suit the tissues better.

  3. Your preparation

    Ask about anesthesia, the care setting, compression garments, and what to arrange beforehand.

  4. Your decision

    Talk through the potential outcome, risks, recovery, and costs before deciding.

Benefits & limitations

Understand the risks alongside the possibilities.

Understand the alternatives and limitations as well as the potential benefits. Results vary, and surgery cannot guarantee a particular appearance.

Your health and the planned operation affect the risk assessment. Possible risks include:

  • Bleeding or infection
  • Fluid collections or fluid imbalance
  • Contour irregularities or asymmetry
  • Numbness or changes in sensation
  • Skin discoloration
  • Revision surgery
  • Blood clots or fat embolism
  • Anesthesia complications

Recovery planning

Make room for healing.

Your instructions should be specific to your operation. A general website timeline cannot tell you when you will be ready to work or exercise.

  1. Before surgery

    Plan practical support

    Ask about transport, help at home, and time away from responsibilities.

  2. Early recovery

    Follow your care instructions

    Understand compression garments, incision care, medication instructions, follow-up, and symptoms that need a call to the surgical team.

  3. Returning to routines

    Check before increasing activity

    Swelling can take time to settle. Discuss separate milestones for work, exercise, and when to expect a clearer sense of contour.

Recovery varies with the operation and the individual. Follow the instructions given by your surgical team.

Questions

What people ask before they call.

Is liposuction a weight-loss procedure?

No. It addresses localized fat in specific areas. Discuss weight stability and your longer-term plans before considering surgery.

Will it tighten loose skin?

Liposuction removes fat but does not remove excess skin. If skin laxity is a concern, ask whether a procedure such as a tummy tuck may be more appropriate.

Can fat come back?

Treated fat cells are removed, but remaining fat cells can still enlarge with weight gain. Ask how weight changes could affect the area over time.

What should I ask about the cost?

Request a written estimate and ask what it includes: surgeon, facility, anesthesia, garments, follow-up, and any additional care. Discuss costs before making a decision.