Liposuction
in Scottsdale, AZ
At our Scottsdale practice, Dr. Berardi brings exceptional expertise to liposuction procedures, combining advanced surgical techniques with an artistic approach to body sculpting. His board certification in plastic surgery ensures that patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their unique anatomy and aesthetic goals. Operating within a fully accredited surgical facility, Dr. Berardi maintains the highest standards of safety while delivering precise results that enhance natural body proportions.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What Is Liposuction?
Liposuction is a popular body contouring procedure that removes stubborn fat deposits from specific areas of the body. It targets fat that is resistant to diet and exercise, helping to reshape and refine the body’s silhouette. Typically, the procedure lasts between one and three hours, depending on the extent of the treatment. By carefully suctioning out excess fat, liposuction offers a way to improve body proportions. It has become one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgeries worldwide.
Treatment Areas
- Chin
- Neck
- Upper Arms
- Chest (for men)
- Breast (as breast reduction)
- Back (upper and lower)
- Abdomen (upper and lower)
- Waist/flanks (“love handles”)
- Buttocks
- Outer Thighs (“saddlebags”)
- Inner Thighs
- Front (anterior) thighs
- Posterior thighs ("banana rolls")
- Knees
- Calves
- Ankles
Our Liposuction Techniques
Tumescent Liposuction
Tumescent liposuction is a widely used technique that involves injecting a large volume of tumescent fluid into the treatment area. This fluid helps numb the region and shrink blood vessels, making the procedure safer and causing less bleeding. The tumescent fluid also allows for easier removal of fat by swelling the targeted tissue. This method typically utilizes suction-assisted liposuction to gently extract the loosened fat cells, resulting in precise body contouring. It is known for its effectiveness and relatively quick recovery time.
Ultrasonic Liposuction
Ultrasonic liposuction, also known as ultrasound-assisted liposuction, utilizes ultrasonic energy to liquefy fat before its removal. This technique helps break down fat cells more efficiently, making it easier to eliminate excess fat from stubborn areas. The ultrasound waves target fat deposits precisely while preserving surrounding tissues. By converting fat into a more fluid state, this method facilitates smoother suction and improved contouring. Ultrasonic liposuction is often chosen for areas with denser fat or fibrous tissue.
Your Initial Consultation
Preparation for liposuction begins with a thorough consultation, during which Dr. Berardi assesses areas of unwanted fat and discusses the goals of body sculpting. During this visit, a customized treatment plan is developed to address the patient’s unique needs and ensure optimal results. The consultation also includes reviewing medical history and any necessary preoperative instructions. Proper preparation helps create a safer environment for the procedure and supports a smoother recovery. Clear communication between the patient and surgeon is essential throughout this process.
Liposuction Procedure
Anesthesia
The liposuction procedure typically begins with the administration of general anesthesia to ensure the patient remains fully comfortable and pain-free throughout the treatment. In some cases, local anesthesia with or without sedation may be used, depending on the extent of the treatment and the patient’s needs.
Injection of Tumescent Fluid
Once anesthesia takes effect, a large volume of tumescent fluid is injected into the fat layer beneath the skin in the treated areas. This fluid contains a local anesthetic and a vasoconstrictor, which numbs the region and reduces bleeding, thereby preparing the fat for easier removal.
Incisions
Small incisions are then made strategically around the treated areas to allow access for the surgical instruments. These incisions are typically discreet and minimal, resulting in reduced visible scarring and facilitating a faster recovery.
Ultrasonic Fat Disruption
Ultrasonic energy is applied through a specialized cannula inserted via the small incisions. The ultrasonic energy liquefies and disrupts the fat layer, making it easier to suction out stubborn fat deposits.
Fat Removal
The liquefied fat cells are carefully suctioned out using the cannula, which gently contours and sculpts the body. The combination of tumescent fluid and ultrasonic energy enables the more precise and effective removal of unwanted fat from targeted areas.
Incision Closure
At the end of the procedure, the small incisions are closed, often with sutures or surgical tape, to promote proper healing and minimize scarring. These closures help protect the treated areas and support the body sculpting results achieved through the fat removal process.
Recovery After
Liposuction Surgery
First 24 Hours
During the first 24 hours after liposuction, most patients experience some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort. It is essential to rest and avoid strenuous activities to support the body’s initial healing process. Wearing a compression garment is often recommended to help minimize swelling and provide gentle support to the treated areas.
Week 1
The first week of the recovery period involves gradual improvement in swelling and bruising. Most patients begin to feel more comfortable moving around, though heavy exercise and intense physical activity should still be avoided. Continued use of a compression garment helps reduce swelling and allows the skin to adjust smoothly to the new contours.
Weeks 2 to 4
Between two and four weeks post-procedure, swelling continues to decrease significantly, and any discomfort typically subsides. During this time, most patients can resume light exercise and daily activities, but should still follow medical advice regarding activity levels. Visible scarring from the small incisions typically begins to fade, becoming less noticeable as the healing process progresses.
After One Month
After one month, the majority of swelling has resolved, and the final body contouring results start to become more apparent. Most patients feel confident returning to their regular routines, including more vigorous exercise. Any remaining visible scarring is generally minimal and continues to improve over the next 6 months with proper care.
Add-On Procedures
Facial Fat Transfer
Fat removed through liposuction can be purified and carefully prepared for reinjection into the face, allowing for a more refined and natural appearance. This technique enhances volume and smooths wrinkles, helping achieve desired aesthetic results. By using the body’s own fat, facial fat transfer offers a natural way to restore youthful contours.
Brazilian Butt Lift
Brazilian butt lift is a popular plastic surgery procedure that uses liposuction to remove fat from various parts of the body. The harvested fat is then sculpted and transferred to the buttocks, creating a fuller and more lifted appearance. This approach combines body contouring and enhancement in a single surgery.
Breast Fat Transfer
Breast fat transfer is a procedure that uses fat collected through liposuction to enhance the size and shape of the breasts. After the fat is carefully purified, it is injected into targeted areas of the breasts to create a fuller appearance. This technique offers a subtle alternative to implants, using the body’s own tissue to achieve smooth, proportionate results. It also allows patients to refine other areas of the body through liposuction, making it a versatile option for overall body contouring.
Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and tighten underlying muscles in the abdominal area. It effectively addresses loose skin that may result from weight loss or pregnancy, helping patients achieve their desired contours. This procedure often complements liposuction for a more sculpted midsection.
Candidates for
Liposuction
Candidacy for liposuction is based on individual goals, body type, and specific areas of concern. This procedure is commonly considered by those looking to refine their body shape rather than achieve significant weight loss. Candidates include:
- Adults in good overall health
- People with localized fat deposits
- Those with a healthy weight
- Patients with firm, elastic skin
- Individuals with realistic expectations
- People seeking refinement after major weight loss
Schedule Your Consultation at Our Scottsdale Office
Benefits of Liposuction
Liposuction is often chosen by individuals who want to enhance their body shape by targeting areas that are resistant to diet and exercise. When performed by a skilled provider like Dr. Berardi, it can produce long-lasting, natural-looking results tailored to each patient’s goals. Patients can expect:
- Improved body contours
- Targeted fat removal
- Enhanced body proportions
- Long-lasting results with proper maintenance
- More defined silhouette
- Better clothing fit
- Boost in self-confidence
Liposuction Cost in Scottsdale, AZ
The cost of liposuction in Scottsdale ranges from $4,000 to $20,000, depending on the number of areas treated and the complexity of the procedure. This estimate typically includes the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, facility costs, and any necessary post-operative garments. Prices may vary based on individual goals and the specific techniques used.
For a personalized quote and detailed information, schedule a consultation at our Scottsdale office.
For a personalized quote and detailed information, schedule a consultation at our Scottsdale office.
What Makes Dr. Berardi Different From Others?
Scottsdale plastic surgeon Dr. Berardi approaches liposuction with the precision of a surgeon and the eye of an artist, shaped by years of extensive training and a lifelong dedication to excellence. As a board-certified plastic surgeon with a background in both reconstructive and aesthetic procedures, he offers more than technical skill—he brings a deep understanding of form, proportion, and patient individuality.
Dr. Berardi operates within a fully accredited surgical suite, allowing for seamless care from consultation to recovery. He integrates advanced surgical techniques to address stubborn fat deposits in patients who are near their target weight, all while maintaining a strict focus on safety and natural-looking outcomes. His meticulous attention to detail and commitment to patient-centered care have earned him a reputation for delivering exceptional results without compromising comfort, trust, or clarity at any step of the process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is liposuction performed as an outpatient procedure?
Yes, liposuction is typically performed as an outpatient cosmetic surgery, allowing patients to return home on the same day. The procedure is done in an accredited surgical facility under general or local anesthesia, depending on the treatment plan.
Can I prolong my liposuction results with a healthy lifestyle?
Maintaining liposuction results is possible through a combination of a healthy diet and exercise. An active lifestyle helps prevent the accumulation of new fat and supports a long-lasting, contoured appearance.
What is the difference between ultrasonic liposuction and laser-assisted liposuction?
Both ultrasonic and laser-assisted liposuction are advanced techniques used to break down fat before removal. Ultrasonic liposuction uses sound waves to liquefy fat, while laser-assisted liposuction uses heat energy to melt fat and stimulate collagen production.
What is the maximum amount of fat that can be removed during liposuction?
While the specific amount can vary based on body type and safety guidelines, removing too much fat at once can increase the risk of surgical complications. For this reason, experienced surgeons limit fat removal to 5 liters (nearly 11 pounds) to maintain a safe and effective procedure.
Can I combine liposuction with surgical treatments that remove excess skin?
Yes, liposuction is often combined with other cosmetic procedures to enhance results. When sagging skin is present, treatments such as tummy tucks or arm lifts can provide additional skin tightening for a smoother, firmer appearance.
What is the difference between chin and neck liposuction?
Chin liposuction targets fat just beneath the chin to refine the jawline, while neck liposuction focuses on the fat deposits in the lower neck area. Both procedures can be performed together or separately, depending on the patient’s anatomy and goals.
Is power-assisted liposuction more effective than ultrasonic liposuction?
Power-assisted liposuction utilizes a vibrating cannula to loosen and remove fat, whereas ultrasonic liposuction employs sound energy to break down fat before suctioning. Both methods effectively remove excess fat, and the choice depends on the treatment area, fat density, and the surgeon’s preference.
