is it possible for a woman to lose 5 inches off of the waist with liposuction?

Yes it is possible. It depends on how much fat you have and what is more contributing to your increased waistline, if it’s the bony projection, subcutaneous fat or Intraperitoneal fat. If it is the subcutaneous fat, then you can lose inches with liposuction. 

Liposuction is a contouring tool and not a means to weight loss. It is used for shaping problem areas which have been resistant to diet and exercise. Even when approaching the high volume limits for the procedure a patient should not expect to lose much more than 11 lbs.It is difficult to make a prediction regarding losing inches around the waist. That being said, 5 inches is a fairly lofty goal to achieve through liposuction alone (which only addresses subcutaneous fat and does nothing for excess skin, muscle laxity or intra-abdominal fat).I often recommend that patients focus on a shape rather than a sterile number like a volume or a measurement, as these goals are very difficult to achieve and can often lead to disappointment.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Thank you for sharing your question.  Unfortunately without a full series of photographs or an in-persone examination it is difficult to offer definite advice.  If the majority of your excess adipose tissue is centrally located you may be able to have this degree of reduction but your ASPS board certified plastic surgeon will be able to offer you better information.  Hope this helps.