Alternatives to liposuction

Steven H. Schuster, MD answers: Liposuction alternatives - what are the options?

I was thinking about getting lipo done on my stomach and back, but I made the mistake of watching a liposuction procedure on one of those educational TV shows, and now I'm scared.  All that hacking around and suctioning under the skin looked really risky and painful.  Are there any alternatives to liposuction that will help me get rid of fat in those tricky areas?


Steven H. Schuster, MD
3 months ago

To make it simple, Callie, there are no alternatives to liposuction. In spite of what you may hear about all these non-invasive techniques, they don't measure up to liposuction, which is the gold standard. Liposuction is the ultimate spot reducing technique.

I don't care what type of lipo you do -- tumescent, ultrasonic, vaser, or laser liposuction (as there are many types which Smart Lipo is a brand). It's not the wand it's the magician. Make sure you go to a board certified plastic surgeon. They will be best able to determine if lipo is right for you or if you need some other procedure.

Liposuction using small cannulas is very safe and effective with a low complication rate. I have seen more patients come in with severe secondary deformities from Laser - type liposuction than any other procedure. This includes divots dents and even 3rd degree skin burns.

Choose your surgeon carefully and I am sure you will happy with your result.

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