What is the Difference Between Regular Lipo and Aggressive Lipo?

     I think the easiest way to answer this is just to look at the before and after pictures.  Some surgeons can create night and day difference and others create changes that are barely perceptible.  Find a plastic surgeon with ELITE credentials who performs hundreds of liposuction procedures each year.  Then look at the plastic surgeon's website before and after photo galleries to get a sense of who can deliver the results.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

I would suggest that you do not concern yourself or become confused by the variety of different terms used to describe liposculption surgery procedures. You will find a number of terms used, some of which may be  for marketing purposes, most of which are unhelpful and confusing.

 I would also caution you about anyone using the word “aggressive”;  no doubt, any procedure that is overdone can be associated with increased risk of complications. The more appropriate word may be “judicious”.  Keep in mind, that if the patient is not a good candidate for liposuction surgery, no amount of “aggressiveness” will achieve satisfactory results.

 Select your plastic surgeon carefully based on his/her ability to achieve outcomes safely.

 Best wishes.

Some patients often come to office asking for aggressive liposuction. Mostly I feel this just means they want the best result they can get. It is important to understand that the more fat removed the greater the chance for skin contour irregularity. The surgeon should always leave a small layer of fat between the skin and underlying muscle. This gives the best contour. In a large person taking out a large volume of fat may also be more risky. When taking out over 5 liters of fat aspirate the American Society of Plastic Surgery suggests that the patient be kept in a medical facility overnight because of the higher risks associated with this large volume liposuction. This large volume liposuction is not necessarily more aggressive, just more risky. You should pick a board certified plastic surgeon who has a lot of experience with liposuction and has various methods at his disposal (i.e. ultrasound assisted liposuction or vaser, power assisted or traditional tumescent liposuction) and is able to utilize the best method for you in the safest facility. Good luck with new body!