What it is:

Removal of excess fatty tissue from one area of the body and injection of this fat into another area where increased volume is desired

  • People who desire a permanent increase in volume in some area of their body (face, breasts, buttocks, etc.)
  • Women who want an improvement in the feel or shape of their breasts after reconstruction

* 1 to 3 hours, depending on the number of areas being treated

Sedation or general

If more than 5 liters of fat are removed with liposuction, you will need to spend the night in the hospital

A few days to 1 week, depending on how many areas are treated

  • Return immediately to non-strenuous activities which do not raise your heart rate or blood pressure, and won’t result in breaking into a sweat
  • Resume strenuous activities in 2 weeks

If it is part of reconstruction after treatment for breast cancer, the procedure is usually covered by insurance

  • You will need to wear a compression garment over areas where liposuction took place for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery
  • You may shower 24 hours after surgery
  • There are no stitches to remove

* Times may vary since each case is unique

** Check with your health care provider about your specific restrictions