What Is Liposuction?
Liposuction is a surgical body contouring procedure that removes unwanted fat deposits to enhance your natural shape and create a more sculpted, proportionate appearance. At Richmond Aesthetic Surgery, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Neil J. Zemmel uses advanced techniques — including tumescent and ultrasound-assisted liposuction — to safely and precisely remove fat while preserving surrounding tissues. His approach prioritizes smooth, natural-looking outcomes by carefully blending treated areas and maintaining proper balance throughout the body.
- Liposuction Candidates
- Liposuction Procedure
- Liposuction Recovery
- Liposuction Results
- Liposuction Cost
Am I a Candidate for Liposuction?
If you’re struggling with stubborn fat that won’t respond to diet and exercise, you may be a good candidate for liposuction. Common treatment areas include the abdomen, flanks, hips, thighs, arms, back, neck, chest, and more. In general, ideal candidates typically:
- Are at or near your ideal weight with a BMI of 35 or lower
- Have good skin elasticity with minimal sagging
- Are in generally good health and a non-smoker
- Are bothered by stubborn fat in specific areas
- Have realistic expectations about your results
Liposuction works best in areas where the skin can redrape smoothly after fat removal. Dr. Zemmel will perform a comprehensive consultation at our Richmond office to determine whether liposuction — alone or combined with other procedures such as tummy tuck surgery — is ideal for your needs.
What Does Liposuction Involve?
Liposuction is performed using very small incisions (2mm to 4mm) placed in discreet or natural creases of the body. Through these openings, Dr. Zemmel inserts narrow surgical tools known as cannulas to gently suction out fat from beneath the skin. Before removal, he uses tumescent injections to minimize bleeding and improve comfort, followed by ultrasound energy to help break up the fat for more precise sculpting. This combination allows for smoother contours, reduced trauma to surrounding tissues, and in some cases, a modest tightening effect in the overlying skin. Dr. Zemmel’s technique targets both deeper and superficial fat layers, which enhances definition and promotes a proportional, balanced result.
What Can I Expect After Liposuction?
After your liposuction procedure, you’ll be placed in a compression garment to help reduce swelling and support your new contours. Some bruising, swelling, and mild soreness are normal in the first several days. Most patients feel ready to return to light activity or desk jobs within about a week, although this depends on the number and size of the areas treated.
Our team will provide you with detailed post-operative care instructions to support your healing process and help you achieve the best possible outcome. Results will continue to improve over the following weeks as swelling resolves. To maintain your new shape, a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and proper nutrition is strongly encouraged.
How Long Do Liposuction Results Last?
The results of liposuction can be long-lasting — often permanent — as long as you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. Fat cells that are removed during liposuction do not grow back, which means the sculpted areas should remain slimmer and more defined. However, it is still possible for the remaining fat cells in your body to expand if you gain weight after surgery.
Dr. Zemmel advises all patients to follow a consistent exercise routine and nutritious diet to preserve their results over time. While aging and hormonal changes may naturally affect body composition, patients who stay active and avoid major weight fluctuations typically enjoy the benefits of liposuction for many years.
How Much Does Liposuction Cost?
The average cost of liposuction in Richmond ranges from $6,000 to $10,000, depending on:
- Number and size of treatment areas
- Type of technique used
- Whether liposuction is combined with other procedures
- Surgeon, facility, and anesthesia fees
During your consultation, we’ll provide a personalized quote and discuss all associated costs. We also offer financing options through Cherry and CareCredit®, which allow qualified patients to pay for treatment in convenient monthly installments.
Schedule Your Liposuction Consultation
Ready to sculpt a slimmer, more confident you? Contact us today to schedule your liposuction consultation with Dr. Neil Zemmel in Richmond, Virginia.
Medical Resources
Mayo Clinic: Liposuction
American Board of Cosmetic Surgery: Liposuction Guide
American Society of Plastic Surgeons: Liposuction