Suction-assisted lipectomy, also known as liposuction, fat suction, or suction lipectomy, is a technique to remove unwanted fat deposits from specific areas of the body, including the chin, neck, and cheeks; the upper arms, and above the breasts; the abdomen, buttocks, hips, and thighs; and the knees, calves, and ankles. Liposuction is not a substitute for weight reduction, but a method of removing localized fat that doesn't respond to dieting and exercise.

The best candidates for liposuction are of relatively normal weight but have pockets of excess fat in particular areas. You should be physically healthy, psychologically stable, and realistic in your expectations. Most important, having firm, elastic skin will result in a better final contour.

Suction lipectomy is not recommended if you've had recent surgery on the spot to be sculpted, if you have poor blood circulation in that area, or if you have heart or lung disease. You should also understand that liposuction by itself will not improve the dimpled skin known as cellulite, though some plastic surgeons offer techniques that may improve this condition.