What Is Liposuction and How Does It Work?

Do you have stubborn bulges along the abdomen, flanks, thighs, or under the chin that can linger despite months of clean eating and workouts? Do you feel frustrated by “spot” areas that don’t respond, want natural results, and feel overwhelmed by conflicting opinions online? The good news is that Adam J. Cohen, MD, offers liposuction in Chicago, IL.

What is Liposuction?

In plain terms, a liposuction procedure is a surgical method that removes excess fat from targeted areas through small incisions and suction. A thin tube called a cannula loosens and extracts fat to refine shape. Surgeons use it on the abdomen, waist, hips, thighs, arms, back, and under the chin. 

You’ll care because the approach targets pockets that resist diet and exercise, which means contour changes in the places that bother you most. It’s not a weight-loss method. Think of it as sculpting, not the scale.

How Does It Work?

Liposuction removes stubborn fat from targeted areas using small incisions and controlled suction. After marking the treatment zones, the surgeon injects a tumescent solution with local anesthetic and epinephrine to reduce bleeding and make fat easier to remove.

A thin tube called a cannula loosens the fat, suctioning out to refine contour on the abdomen, flanks, thighs, arms, back, or under the chin. The procedure reshapes specific areas rather than producing significant weight loss. Most patients wear a compression garment to limit swelling and support the new contour.

Soreness feels similar to an intense workout and improves over several days, while swelling settles over weeks. Early changes appear within a few weeks, with results continuing to refine for three to six months. Because removed fat cells do not return, results last best when the weight remains stable. Small scars fade and usually hide in natural creases.

Benefits of Liposuction

People often focus on dress sizes, but the real benefits of liposuction go beyond numbers. Patients describe clothes fitting better and a smoother silhouette that looks more proportional. Because the surgeon removes fat cells from precise zones, those areas usually maintain their improved shape as long as you keep a stable weight. 

The small incisions help you avoid noticeable marks; most scars blend into natural folds. For many, the biggest win is control: you can finally address one or two persistent spots rather than changing your routine for minimal payoff.

Who Is This Best For?

Candidacy centers on goals, health, and skin quality. Adults of a wide range of ages do well when they want to refine areas that don’t budge with routine habits. Good skin elasticity helps the area look smooth after fat removal. If you’ve recently lost significant weight or have laxity, your surgeon will discuss skin tightening or how liposuction vs tummy tuck compares for your situation.

What to Expect

Pre-treatment prep

You’ll meet with your surgeon to review medical history, medications, and goals. List the areas that bother you most and any prior procedures. Many patients benefit from seeing liposuction before and after photos of similar body types to set expectations. Your team will explain anesthesia options and give you instructions about eating, drinking, and arranging help for the first day or two.

Treatment day

Your surgeon marks the treatment zones, then creates tiny entry points to insert the cannula. Fat is loosened and removed to create an even contour. Small dressings cover the incisions, and you’ll wear a compression garment to reduce swelling. Depending on the extent, you may go home the same day with a companion.

Downtime and recovery

Expect swelling and soreness that feel like a hard workout. Most desk workers return in a few days, while physically demanding jobs take longer. Gentle walks help circulation. Your provider will outline liposuction recovery tips, such as consistent compression wear, hydration, and avoiding strenuous exercise until cleared. Swelling improves week by week, so patience matters.

When results show and how long they last

Early changes appear as swelling fades in the first few weeks, with refinement continuing for several months. Removed fat cells do not return, so results last when your weight stays stable. If you gain weight, remaining fat cells can enlarge, which may change proportions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How painful is liposuction?

Most patients describe soreness rather than sharp pain, especially in the first few days. Your team provides medication and comfort strategies. Swelling and stiffness improve over one to two weeks, and walking helps. Plan light activity first, then return to exercise after your surgeon clears you.

How much fat can be removed safely with liposuction?

Safety limits depend on your health, body size, and the number of areas treated. Surgeons set conservative targets to keep results smooth and reduce risks. The goal is balanced contouring, not maximum volume removal. Your consultation will outline a safe range for your anatomy.

Does skin tighten after liposuction, or will it sag?

Skin with good elasticity often retracts nicely as swelling subsides. If you have laxity from pregnancies, age, or weight changes, your surgeon may suggest add-on tightening or explain how liposuction compares with other procedures to remove excess skin.

How soon will I see results, and how long do they last?

You’ll notice early contour changes within a few weeks, with final results settling over three to six months as swelling resolves. Because removed fat cells are gone, results last when you maintain a stable weight through regular activity and everyday healthy habits.

Will I have visible scars?

Incisions are small, usually a few millimeters, and placed in natural creases when possible. Most patients find them hard to spot once healed. Scar care and sun protection help them fade. Ask your surgeon where the entry points will be for your specific areas.

Liposuction in Chicago, IL

At Adam J. Cohen, MD, liposuction refines shape by removing stubborn fat from targeted areas. It works best for people near their goal weight who want better proportions and smoother lines. You can expect lasting contour changes that fit your lifestyle with the right plan, careful aftercare, and steady habits. Ready to start a conversation and get answers? Contact Us Today!

Glow Up Your Body

Ready to explore your options and see what fits your goals, schedule, and comfort level? Adam J. Cohen, MD, offers clear guidance, realistic timelines, and natural-looking results. Book Your Personalized Liposuction Consultation Today!