Liposuction

Liposuction for targeted removal of stubborn localised fat deposits from the abdomen, flanks, thighs, arms, back, and submental area (double chin), performed by Northwestern University board-certified plastic surgeons. Both conventional suction-assisted and ultrasound-assisted techniques are available. Surgery is performed at Northwestern Memorial Hospital under appropriate anesthesia; the procedure may be combined with abdominoplasty or other body contouring surgery in the same session.

Liposuction at Northwestern Plastic Surgery provides targeted body contouring to remove localised fat deposits that persist despite consistent diet and exercise — common areas including the abdomen, flanks (love handles), inner and outer thighs, knees, upper and lower back, upper arms, and the submental region (double chin). The procedure is not a weight-loss intervention but rather a precision contouring tool for patients who are near their goal weight and have good skin elasticity in the treatment areas. The conventional suction-assisted technique uses small-bore cannulas inserted through minimal access incisions to mechanically break up and aspirate the fat through a vacuum system. Tumescent fluid — a dilute local anesthetic and vasoconstrictor solution — is infused into the treatment area prior to aspiration to reduce bleeding, provide local analgesia, and facilitate smoother cannula movement through the fat. The volume of fat removed is planned in consultation to achieve proportionate contouring rather than maximum removal, as over-resection can create surface contour irregularities. Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL/VASER) adds an ultrasound energy step prior to aspiration, selectively emulsifying fat cells while preserving fibrovascular structures — a technique that can provide improved precision in fibrous areas such as the male chest (gynecomastia), back, and flanks, and may offer some degree of skin tightening through thermal stimulation of the reticular dermis. Post-operative compression garments are worn for four to six weeks to manage oedema and support the contouring result. Liposuction is frequently incorporated into abdominoplasty procedures for circumferential body contouring and is available as a standalone outpatient procedure for appropriate candidates.