If stubborn fat is keeping you from loving the way you look, liposuction at our Metro Atlanta plastic surgery practice may be just what you need to enhance your body and get a slimmer, more balanced physique. Here at The Swan Center in Alpharetta, Georgia, we perform hundreds of liposuction procedures every year—and we love seeing how happy our patients are with their results!
Where Should I Go for the Best Liposuction Results in Metro Atlanta?
A beautifully proportioned body can make you feel great and look fabulous—and our board-certified plastic surgeons are known for helping patients achieve balanced, natural-looking results. Our practice has been recognized as the “Best Plastic Surgery Center for the Tummy/Midsection” by Best Self Atlanta for the natural, sculpted results our surgeons can achieve.
We have also been honored for “Best Non-Surgical Body Sculpting” by My John’s Creek and My Alpharetta magazines. Whether you are interested in surgery or a less invasive approach, we have the body contouring expertise to give you the results you desire.
Dr. Bauer is a highly respected double board-certified plastic surgeon and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. His attentive bedside manner and commitment to patient safety and exceptional, natural-looking results attract patients from all over the world.
A mom and a mommy makeover expert, “Dr. Cat” loves empowering her female patients. Her meticulous skill and friendly, supportive personality have endeared her to patients and earned her multiple “Best Plastic Surgeon” awards for body contouring surgeries.
An 11-time Vitals’ Patient Choice award winner, Dr. Fardo treats every patient as if they were family. He ranks in the top 10% of RealSelf doctors for patient satisfaction and is known for his specialized body contouring techniques and minimally invasive approach.
Who Are the Best Candidates for Liposuction Surgery?
If you’re like most people, you still have stubborn areas of unwanted fat despite a nutritious diet and regular exercise. By selectively removing fat from your problem areas, liposuction can help you reduce fat deposits while enhancing your overall proportions. Liposuction can help a wide range of patients, but your results are likely to be more satisfying if you can answer “yes” to most of these questions:
Am I happy with my current body weight? Liposuction can reduce fat pockets for a better shape, but it is not a weight-loss procedure.
Do I have specific deposits of fat I want to target? The happiest patients are those who want to spot-reduce in specific areas.
Is excess skin the real issue? Liposuction targets localized areas of fatty tissue and removes fat cells from the body. If excess skin is your main concern, you may be a better candidate for a tummy tuck, arm lift, or other procedures that address excess skin.
Am I a healthy non-smoker? Smoking increases surgery risks, slows the healing process, and can jeopardize results. If you do smoke, surgery may not be a good option for you unless you are willing to stop smoking at least 1 month before and after any operation.
Your Liposuction Procedure
Liposuction uses a specialized instrument called a micro-cannula to selectively remove excess fat beneath the skin. The incisions are very small—typically a half-inch or smaller—and are placed inconspicuously in the body’s natural contours.
All three of our board-certified plastic surgeons are experienced in multiple liposuction technologies, including tumescent liposuction and ultrasonic liposuction. Both procedures produce safe, predictable, and beautiful results; however, in special situations, the ultrasonic technique may offer better results.
Not only did my results exceed my expectations, but the staff also became like a family to me… You can rest assured you are in good hands.
In tumescent liposuction, one of our surgeons injects the areas to be contoured with a tumescent solution. In addition to making the fat firmer and easier to remove, this solution acts as a local anesthetic and long-term analgesic.
Once the fat is ready for removal, your surgeon inserts a micro-cannula to break up the fat and suction it out. This popular liposuction technique can be used all over the body and has minimal recovery time.
Ultrasonic Liposuction
Ultrasonic liposuction is an advanced body contouring technique that uses ultrasound energy to liquefy fat prior to removal through traditional liposuction methods. Dr. Fardo specializes in this technique and uses it to treat particularly fibrous areas such as the upper back, abdomen, and flanks (love handles) and for male breast reduction (gynecomastia).
This gentler technique leaves the surrounding tissues and blood vessels unharmed, leading to less bruising and discomfort overall.
Fat Transfer
You can enhance your liposuction procedure by redistributing your fat to another part of the body. After reducing fat in the chosen area (typically the abdomen, hips, flanks, or thighs) using liposuction, the fatty tissue is then purified and injected into an area where you want fullness, such as the buttocks, breasts, or face.
Liposuction is a versatile procedure designed to reduce fat and enhance body contours in various areas. Below, we’ve highlighted the most popular treatment areas and the improvements liposuction can achieve in each:
Abdomen
The abdomen is one of the most common areas for liposuction, as fat here is often resistant to diet and exercise. Liposuction can create a flatter, more toned midsection by removing fat deposits from the upper, lower, and central abdomen, enhancing the waistline and achieving a smoother contour.
Axilla (Underarm)
Liposuction in the axilla area targets stubborn fat between the chest and upper arm. This treatment can reduce underarm bulges, improve the fit of sleeveless clothing, and create a more seamless transition between the arms and torso.
Back/Bra Roll
Fat accumulation in the back and bra roll area can create uneven contours. Liposuction smooths these areas, reducing bulges and creating a more streamlined silhouette, especially in fitted clothing or swimwear.
Chin/Neck
If you’re concerned about a double chin or excess fat around the neck, liposuction can create a more defined jawline and a slimmer, more elegant neck profile. This treatment often provides dramatic improvements with minimal scarring.
Hips/Flanks
Commonly referred to as “love handles,” the hips and flanks are a popular target for liposuction. Removing fat from these areas enhances the waistline, creating a more sculpted and proportionate figure.
Lateral Breasts
Liposuction can address excess fat along the sides of the breasts, often referred to as “bra bulge.” This creates a smoother transition between the chest and arms and enhances the overall appearance in form-fitting clothing.
Thighs
Liposuction on the inner or outer thighs can reduce stubborn fat deposits, creating slimmer, more proportionate legs. This treatment is especially popular for addressing the “saddlebag” area on the outer thighs.
Upper Arms
Excess fat in the upper arms can create a “flabby” appearance, even in otherwise slim individuals. Liposuction removes fat to create a more toned and contoured arm shape, perfect for wearing sleeveless styles confidently.
Our surgeons understand that men and women have different cosmetic goals and need a specialized approach to achieve their ideal body contours. That’s why we also perform liposuction for men.
Enhancing Other Procedures With Liposuction
Liposuction may be used in tandem with other surgical procedures, such as tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), mommy makeover, and breast reduction surgery. It can also complement Aveli™ cellulite reduction treatments by removing excess fat on the buttocks and thighs for a smoother, more contoured result. Each procedure is tailored to your needs and aesthetic goals.
What Are Some Alternatives to Liposuction Surgery?
Although not as targeted and predictable as liposuction, CoolSculpting® can help you achieve stunning, natural results and boost your confidence without surgery, needles, or downtime. This fat-freezing technology uses targeted cooling to break down fat cells in nearly any area of the body, leaving you with a slimmer contour.
Here at The Swan Center, we have multiple CoolSculpting machines and the latest generation of applicators so that we can treat more areas of your body in less time than ever. Many patients begin seeing changes within just a few weeks after their first session, but additional treatments may be recommended to meet your goals.
Recovery After Liposuction
Liposuction recovery is usually straightforward, with most patients resuming normal routines relatively quickly. However, recovery times can vary depending on the extent of the procedure, the treated areas, and individual healing processes. Here’s a general timeline to help you understand what to expect:
Days 1 to 3
Rest and focus on healing.
Wear the provided compression garment to support the treated area and minimize swelling.
You may experience general soreness and mild swelling, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
Week 1
Most patients feel well enough to return to work or light daily activities.
Continue wearing your compression garment as directed to aid healing and contouring.
Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and intense exercise.
Weeks 2 to 3
Swelling and bruising begin to subside.
Light exercise, such as walking, can usually be resumed.
Continue to avoid high-impact activities or exercises targeting the treated areas.
Weeks 4 to 6
Swelling continues to decrease, and the treated areas start to take on a more defined appearance.
Gradual return to moderate exercise is typically allowed, depending on your surgeon’s instructions.
3 to 6 Months
Swelling continues to decrease, and the treated areas start to take on a more defined appearance.
Gradual return to moderate exercise is typically allowed, depending on your surgeon’s instructions.
If you have questions or concerns at any point during your recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to ensure your healing process is as smooth and comfortable as possible.
What Are the Risks of Liposuction?
Liposuction is minimally invasive and boasts high patient satisfaction rates, but it is still surgery and carries some risks. Complications like blood clots and hematomas are rare but possible. An inexperienced surgeon is more likely to produce cosmetic complications like visible contour irregularities—lumps, bumps, and rippling.
Working with one of our experienced board-certified plastic surgeons greatly increases your chances for a safe, smooth operation and long-lasting results you’ll love. Dr. Fardo, Dr. Cat, and Dr. Bauer have the expertise and skill to deliver a premium body contouring experience.
Will I Have Scars After Liposuction?
Many liposuction patients are understandably concerned about the type of incisions they should expect. Thankfully, modern liposuction techniques have vastly improved.
Previously, traditional liposuction involved making a fairly large incision to accommodate a large tube (a cannula) which was inserted into the skin and moved around vigorously to loosen and then suck out the excess fat with a powerful vacuum. Today, plastic surgeons most commonly perform liposuction using a much smaller, endoscopic-size cannula. If liposuction scars do occur, they will be minimal and should fade quickly with proper scar care.
How Much Does Liposuction Cost in Atlanta?
The cost of your liposuction surgery will vary depending on several factors, including the amount of fat to be removed, the areas to be treated, and the complexity of the procedural technique. We can offer you a “ballpark” fee estimate for liposuction and other surgical procedures when you contact our office.
After your complimentary cosmetic surgery consultation, you will be given an individual plastic surgery fee quote that is valid for 30 days. We also offer multiple financing and payment options for our patients’ convenience.
Most patients report soreness or discomfort similar to the feeling after an intense workout. Pain can be managed with prescribed medications and typically subsides within a few days.
How many pounds can you lose with liposuction?
Liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure—its focus is on improving body contours by removing localized fat deposits rather than significant weight reduction. However, many patients lose between 1 to 5 pounds.
How long does liposuction last?
Liposuction results are long-lasting as long as you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. The removed fat cells do not regenerate, but remaining fat cells can expand with significant weight gain.
What’s 360 liposuction?
360 liposuction targets fat around the entire midsection, including the abdomen, flanks, and lower back. This approach creates a more balanced, contoured look from every angle.