No matter how strict our diets or hard we exercise, there will always be those problem areas on our bodies that nothing seems to help. Liposuction can be a safe and effective remedy, but it is not an overnight fix for those who are significantly overweight.

Contrary to what we may like to believe, there really isn’t much which liposuction can do for those who are considered ‘grossly obese’ so it would be wise to take off as much weight as possible long before scheduling a liposuction consultation. In fact, most reputable cosmetic surgeons will tell you as much when you call to book your appointment or during your initial consultation.

Even though most women find that their problem areas are in the arms, thighs, stomach, buttocks, hips and chin, liposuction can be safely performed on just about any area of the body where there is stubborn, excess fat. Also, once those fat cells have been removed there should be no future problems with fat cells returning to those areas.

Usually the first appointment with a cosmetic surgeon will entail undergoing an assessment to see if you are a suitable candidate for liposuction. As mentioned, those who are more than a little overweight may not be good candidates. Liposuction is meant to surgically deal with problem areas, it is not a total body makeover.

At your first appointment your body mass index (BMI) will be calculated to ensure that you are suitable for the procedure. If you are a candidate, liposuction can be performed as a day procedure, sometimes under general anaesthesia and sometimes with a local anaesthetic. Although each session will last no longer than an hour or two, several sessions will be needed for any area where liposuction will be performed.

Keep in mind that there are many cosmetic surgeons who can set up a payment plan for you if needed. Take the time to compare prices and payment plans and to check out the surgeon’s credentials before scheduling or during your initial consultation.