The Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons

Liposuction
in Florida

Many of us have areas of stubborn fat that are difficult to lose despite diet and exercise. Liposuction is an effective treatment that can improve a patient’s contour and return the confidence that they deserve. FSPS members use a variety of liposuction technologies with personalized approaches for each patient to create the silhouette you are looking for. Whether you are looking to smooth out just one area or completely redo your silhouette, our board-certified plastic surgeons offer expert care across Florida.

model walking with hat on beach

Pat Pazmiño, MD, FACS

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a powerful technique where the surgeon uses tiny well-hidden incisions to target stubborn fat and remove it effectively. Liposuction can be performed under local anesthesia or general anesthesia and can be performed in just one area or throughout the body. Liposuction can be performed by itself or in combination with other procedures, such as a tummy tuck when abdominal muscle tightening is necessary, or fat transfer when we use some of the fat that has been removed by liposuction to enhance another area. Liposuction should always be performed in an accredited surgical facility to ensure patient safety.

Benefits of Liposuction

  • Removal of stubborn areas of fat
  • Improved silhouette
  • Boost in body confidence and comfort in clothing
  • Long-lasting results when paired with a healthy lifestyle

Who Is an Ideal Candidate?

The best candidates are individuals in good overall health who have excess stubborn fat immediately below the skin (“subcutaneous fat”) and do not have loose skin over the treatment areas. If loose skin is also present, an additional procedure to treat the skin, such as a tummy tuck, arm lift, thigh lift or breast lift, may be necessary.  It’s important to know that liposuction by itself does not treat loose skin or cellulite.  Liposuction also cannot treat the “visceral” fat, which is inside the abdominal cavity. 

Like all body contouring procedures, you should be at a stable, maintainable weight before liposuction.  Remember that liposuction is a contouring procedure, not a weight loss procedure.  You should also avoid smoking, vaping and nicotine prior to surgery. 

A consultation with an FSPS member surgeon is the first step to understanding whether liposuction is right for you.

The Procedure Process

Initial Consultation

Your surgeon will evaluate your anatomy, review your goals, and explain the options that are best for you.  He or she will explain the details of the planned operation including risks, benefits, and alternatives and how you can work together to limit your risks and achieve or surpass your desired results.  Abdominal hernias, if present, should be repaired prior to liposuction surgery.

Day of Surgery

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia if only a few, small areas will be treated or general anesthesia if more areas will be addressed. Tiny incisions the size of a pencil eraser are placed in the wrinkles and creases of your body to make sure they are not noticeable after the procedure, even when wearing a bikini or swim suit. 

Immediate Aftercare

You’ll be monitored in a recovery area and return home with compression garments and detailed aftercare instructions.  Sometimes your surgeon may prefer an over-night stay.

Follow-Up Visits

Your Board-Certified FSPS surgeon will guide your healing process and carefully monitor your progress with scheduled follow-ups.  Post-operative care is an important part of recovery and getting your best result.

Recovery and Aftercare

Initial downtime ranges from 2-5 days, with light activity encouraged as you heal. Most patients return to normal routines within 1-2 weeks.  Swelling will gradually subside over the first 3 months, and results continue to refine for 6+ months. Wearing compression garments and following your surgeon’s instructions are key to optimal healing.

Results: What to Expect

Patients typically notice a significant improvement in contour shortly after surgery. Final results become more visible over 3–6 months as swelling fully resolves, and skin re-draping occurs. The desired outcome is a natural, enhanced silhouette with long-lasting benefits.

Gallery

Risks and Considerations

As with any surgery, liposuction carries some risks, including bleeding, infection, asymmetry, or fluid accumulation. Choosing a board-certified FSPS member surgeon ensures that you’re in expert hands, with safety protocols and personalized care to minimize complications.

Why Choose an FSPS Member Plastic Surgeon?

Choosing a Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons member means you’re in the care of a highly trained expert.

  • Certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
  • Extensive experience and surgical precision
  • Hospital privileges as a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
  • Commitment to the highest safety and ethical standards

Frequently Asked Questions About Liposuction

Costs vary based on region and complexity. Schedule a consultation for a personalized estimate.

Most patients take 3-7 days off from work, and resume daily activities within 7-10 days. Depending on the technique used, full activity and strenuous work-outs may require 3-4 weeks of healing.

Yes. The results are long-lasting as long as you maintain a stable weight. Future pregnancies or large weight fluctuations can affect your long-term results.

Related Procedures & Treatments

Serving Florida Communities Statewide

FSPS surgeons proudly serve patients across Florida, including Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Sarasota, Gainesville and beyond.

What Should I Do Next?

Schedule a consultation with an FSPS member and discover how liposuction can help you feel more confident in your skin.

×