Arroyo Plastic Surgery Website Logo
(832) 843-2702

Table of Contents

    What is Liposuction?

    Liposuction, also called lipoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes stubborn, unwanted fat tissues from a wide range of areas of the body. During liposuction, very small incisions are made, through which the fat tissues are loosened and gently suctioned out.

    What are the benefits of liposuction in Houston?

    Liposuction is a popular cosmetic procedure because it is extremely effective in sculpting the figure and is considered relatively safe, achieving more than a 90% satisfaction rate with patients. Liposuction provides many benefits for patients, including the following:

    • Slims and sculpts the figure in a wide range of areas
    • Very minimal scarring
    • Achieves a better fit in clothing
    • Effectively removes fatty male breast tissue.
    • Improves the overall health
    • Results are long-lasting
    • Although liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure, it can result in the loss of up to 10 pounds
    • Eliminates sweating and chafing in areas where fat can build up
    • Improves confidence and self esteem
    • Liposuction often helps to inspire healthy eating and exercise habits

    Why choose Dr. Arroyo for liposuction?

    Dr. Christian Arroyo brings a unique multicultural perspective and a high level of expertise to liposuction procedures, providing a personalized approach to help patients achieve their ideal body contours. Dr. Arroyo is board-certified in plastic surgery and completed medical school at the prestigious University of Puerto Rico. He then honed his surgical skills with general surgery training at the University of Connecticut and the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. He completed his plastic surgery residency at Houston Methodist Hospital, equipping him with top-tier skills and expertise.

    Recognized as Houston’s Best Plastic Surgeon by the Houston Chronicle in 2022, Dr. Arroyo is also bilingual, enhancing communication with a broader range of patients. Dr. Arroyo’s commitment to patient comfort and safety is evident through his use of TIVA (total intravenous anesthesia), allowing for a gentler and safer experience than traditional general anesthesia. With his compassionate approach and impressive credentials, Dr. Arroyo is a trusted choice for liposuction in Houston.

    Background for doctor module
    Best of the Best 2021 Winner Houston Chronicle
    The American Board of Plastic Surgery Inc. logo
    American Society of Plastic Surgeons logo
    The Aesthetic Society logo

    Who is a candidate for liposuction?

    Men or women who want to get rid of persistent fat deposits that don’t reduce with diet and regular exercise. Ideal candidates for liposuction in Houston should be close to their ideal weight and meet the following criteria:

    • Are generally in good health
    • Are at a stable weight they can maintain
    • Do not smoke
    • Are 18 years old or older
    • Do not have severe skin laxity (sagging skin)
    • Have persistent excess fat on their abdomen, thighs, neck, and/or other areas

    To determine whether you’re an ideal candidate for liposuction, Dr. Arroyo will consult with you to understand your concerns and aesthetic goals. Once he determines you’re a candidate, he will develop a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve your goals for a slimmer, more sculpted physique.

    Liposuction Before & After Photos

    Before and After Liposuction in Houston - 01
    Before and After Liposuction in Houston - 02
    Before and After Liposuction in Houston - 03
    View Gallery

    Liposuction Patient Reviews

    "If you are looking for a plastic surgeon in the Houston, TX area, Dr. Arroyo is your guy! He and all of his staff are absolutely AMAZING. They will bend over backwards to accommodate you however they can. My entire experience has been nothing short of extraordinary. I had an extended tummy tuck, muscle repair, and Lipo 360. I am only two weeks post-op, but I am already so excited about my results! I can hardly wait to see what I’ll look like once all the swelling goes down and the incision heals completely."

    K.D.

    "I had a lipo 360 done here back in late August and they made my stomach look so flat and so good. I always had a lower stomach even when I was 100 pounds in high school. I'm confident in my body now. Love my surgeon Dr Arroyo and love his whole team. They were all so sweet."

    T.T.

    "So after extensive research me and my wife decided to go with Dr. Arroyo for our surgeries. From the consultation to the surgery room to the post op care all of it was without a doubt a 5 star experience. They even had a team of people who was readily available to answer any questions or concerns we had day and night. Dr Arroyo didn’t pressure us at all during the consultation just merely provided to us a personalized surgery plan based on our goals and what in his professional opinion was the best options for our bodies. My wife got 360 lipo and a bbl and 3 weeks later we are already extremely happy with the results . I’m 1 week post op on my tummy tuck and lipo and can’t believe how amazing I already look . Thank you to Dr. Arroyo, Jasmine, and Essie and the rest of the Arroyo plastic surgery team for making this an enjoyable journey and giving us our dream bodies"

    D.G.

    "I would never go anywhere else! Best surgeon ever. Extended tummy tuck and lipo, amazing results!!! Love the staff!"

    K.D.

    Background for reviews slider

    What is the cost of liposuction?

    Each patient’s liposuction procedure is customized according to their unique physique and aesthetic goals. Depending on the area being addressed and the extent of liposuction being done, the cost varies. The general average of liposuction cost by area is as follows:

    Abdomen $2,500-$13,000
    Arms $2,000-$10,500
    Back $2,000-$9,500
    Breasts $3,800-$13,000
    Buttocks $2,000-$10,000
    Neck/face $2,500-$10,000
    Flanks $2,500-$11,000
    Thighs $2,500-$11,500
    Waist $2,500-$11,000

    After your consultation with Dr. Arroyo, he will design a customized surgical plan for you, which will include all details of your surgery, including the exact price.

    What are the liposuction treatment areas?

    Liposuction can treat a wide range of areas to sculpt and slim your body, including the following:

    • Buttocks
    • Love handles
    • Upper arms
    • Abdomen
    • Hips
    • Bra rolls
    • Lower back
    • Chin
    • Neck
    • Thighs
    • Calves
    • Knees
    • Male chest

    Once Dr. Arroyo removes the fat, it can be purified and used for procedures such as a Brazilian Butt Lift or facial fat grafting. Based on your needs, Dr. Arroyo will create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

    What happens during the liposuction procedure?

    Depending on the number of treatment areas and the complexity of your procedure, liposuction usually requires two to five hours. Liposuction is an outpatient procedure that is performed under local or general anesthesia. Based on your clinical needs, Dr. Arroyo will work with you to determine the best anesthesia approach. 

    There are different types of liposuction procedures, which Dr. Arroyo will use depending on your needs and goals. During the traditional procedure, Dr. Arroyo will typically begin with a small incision in the targeted area, through which he inserts a narrow tube called a cannula. He will then gently dislodge the unwanted fat and suction it from the body. Once the procedure is complete, liposuction incisions are closed with absorbable sutures or surgical glue. With traditional liposuction, patients may have more significant pain and bruising during recovery. Dr. Arroyo also offers patients the following types of liposuction in Houston.

    Banner background

    Advanced Liposuction Techniques

    Dr. Arroyo utilizes modern liposuction techniques designed to improve precision, minimize trauma, and enhance recovery. Depending on your anatomy and goals, your procedure may involve:

    • Power-assisted liposuction (PAL) for efficient fat removal
    • Tumescent liposuction to reduce bleeding and improve safety
    • Energy-assisted liposuction to help tighten skin
    • Ultrasound-assisted liposuction for fibrous areas like the back or male chest

    Each technique is selected to maximize sculpting while maintaining natural-looking results.

    Types of Liposuction

    Tumescent liposuction

    Also called Suction Assisted Lipectomy, this type of liposuction is a safer and easier procedure than traditional liposuction. Dr. Arroyo will first inject a tumescent fluid (including saline, lidocaine, and epinephrine) that prepares the fat in the targeted area. This fluid is used to minimize tissue trauma and blood loss during treatment. Dr. Arroyo will then make a very small, inconspicuous incision and insert a cannula to gently suction fat cells out of the treatment area.

    Energy-assisted liposuction

    Energy-assisted liposuction may utilize laser energy, heat energy, or sound waves to assist the fat removal process. The energy heats and liquefies fat cells in the targeted treatment area, making it easier to suction out the unwanted fat cells. This liposuction procedure also stimulates skin retraction and tightening for a more smooth and sculpted outcome.

    Power-assisted liposuction

    During power-assisted liposuction, Dr. Arroyo will use a unique vibrating device that smoothly breaks down and suctions out larger amounts of fat tissues. This procedure allows for a smoother and easier fat removal procedure.

    Ultrasound-assisted liposuction

    During Ultrasound-assisted liposuction, Dr. Arroyo uses an ultrasonic device that gives off ultrasound energy to help break up and separate the fat cells before it they are suctioned out of the body.

    Recovery after liposuction

    After your liposuction procedure, expect swelling, bruising and some numbness where you were treated. We will provide a compression garment to help reduce swelling and improve healing. Applying cool packs helps to minimize these effects and improves healing. 

    As you heal, follow a healthy diet and drink plenty of fluids to help offset swelling. Dr. Arroyo encourages light walking to stimulate circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. Within a few days to a week, most patients are able to return to light, sedentary work. After 1-2 weeks, moderate or light exercise can be resumed.

    Swelling will be mostly gone at the 4-6 week mark. By then, more strenuous exercise may be resumed. Scarring is quite minimal, as the incisions are so small that the scars aren’t easily noticed. Scars may fade completely over several months. 

    Liposuction vs
    Non-Surgical Fat Reduction

    While treatments like CoolSculpting or other non-surgical fat reduction options can reduce small pockets of fat, liposuction offers several advantages:

    • Removes a larger volume of fat
    • Provides more dramatic contouring
    • Produces immediate fat removalAllows precise sculpting by the surgeon

    For patients seeking noticeable body contouring, liposuction is often the most effective solution.

    Maintaining results after liposuction

    While the fat removed during a liposuction procedure will not return, if you gain weight, other fat cells will grow and you may put on weight on your newly slimmed figure.

    Fortunately, after liposuction, many patients find it easier to stick to a healthy diet and exercise routine. Once you’ve fully healed after your liposuction surgery, a diet of healthy greens and proteins will help to maintain your weight, while exercise such as weightlifting, running, cycling, swimming, or aerobics will keep your figure trim and toned. 

    Square logo

    Liposuction for men

    While many men follow a strict diet and exercise regimen to ensure an attractive physique, fat tissues can tend to build up, especially with age. Stubborn pockets of localized fat appear on the adomen, chest, buttocks and love handles. Liposuction has become popular with men to achieve a tighter, more sculpted and youthful physique. Dr. Arroyo will consult with you to restore balance and athletic proportions to your body with a personalized treatment plan designed for you.

    Banner background

    Recovery Timeline After Liposuction

    Recovery after liposuction varies depending on the areas treated and the amount of fat removed, but most patients return to normal activities within a few weeks. Dr. Arroyo will provide detailed post-operative instructions to help ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results.

    First 24–48 Hours

    Immediately after surgery, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort in the treated areas. Compression garments are worn to support healing and reduce swelling. Most patients can walk the same day, which helps promote circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.

    Days 3–7

    During the first week, swelling and bruising may continue but gradually begin to improve. Many patients feel comfortable returning to light daily activities or desk work within a few days. Compression garments should be worn as directed to support the healing tissues.

    Weeks 2–3

    By the second and third week, bruising and soreness typically decrease significantly. Light exercise, such as walking or gentle activity, can usually be resumed. You may begin to notice early improvements in your body contour as swelling subsides.

    Weeks 4–6

    Most swelling continues to resolve during this period, and patients can typically resume more strenuous exercise and physical activity with Dr. Arroyo’s approval. Your body shape will continue to refine as healing progresses.

    3–6 Months

    Final liposuction results become more visible as any remaining swelling disappears and the tissues fully settle. Patients enjoy a slimmer, more sculpted appearance with long-lasting results when they maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle.

    Treatments That Pair Well with Liposuction

    Our Lipo in Houston is highly versatile and can be combined with other procedures to enhance your overall body contour and achieve more comprehensive results. Some treatments that pair well with liposuction include:

    • Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): Ideal for patients with excess skin or weakened abdominal muscles. Combining liposuction with a tummy tuck can sculpt the waist while tightening and flattening the abdomen.
    • Breast Augmentation or Lift: Many patients choose to enhance their upper body while refining their midsection, creating a balanced and proportional figure.
    • Mommy Makeover: A combination of liposuction, breast surgery, and a tummy tuck designed to restore the body after pregnancy.
    • Fat Transfer: Fat removed during liposuction can be purified and used to enhance areas like the buttocks (Brazilian Butt Lift), breasts, or hands for natural volume restoration.
    • Body Contouring Procedures: Liposuction can be combined with procedures like thigh lifts, arm lifts, or back lifts to remove stubborn fat and address loose skin for a smoother silhouette.

    Dr. Arroyo will work with you to design a personalized treatment plan, ensuring your combination of procedures complements your unique body shape and aesthetic goals.

    Banner background

    Liposuction FAQs

    Do I need liposuction or a tummy tuck?

    How Much Fat Can Liposuction Remove?

    Is Liposuction Safe?

    How much weight will I lose with liposuction?

    Will there be scarring after liposuction?

    Can removed fat be transferred?

    Are the results of liposuction permanent?

    When can I exercise after liposuction?

    How long does liposuction take?

    Is liposuction safe?

    What if I gain weight after liposuction?

    Can I combine liposuction with other procedures?

    Do I need liposuction or a tummy tuck?

    If there is considerable sagging skin or the muscles have been stretched, a tummy tuck is the right choice. For patients who have retained their skin elasticity, liposuction is ideal.

    How Much Fat Can Liposuction Remove?

    In most cases, surgeons remove up to 5 liters of fat during a single procedure, depending on safety guidelines and the patient’s body type. The goal of liposuction is body contouring rather than weight loss, focusing on shaping the body and improving proportions.

    Is Liposuction Safe?

    When performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, liposuction is considered a safe and effective procedure. Dr. Arroyo performs liposuction in an accredited surgical environment and carefully evaluates each patient to ensure they are an appropriate candidate.

    How much weight will I lose with liposuction?

    Liposuction is not a weight loss procedure, but patients can expect to lose between 5-10 pounds after surgery.

    Will there be scarring after liposuction?

    Liposuction incisions are tiny, resulting in very small scars about the size of a freckle. Liposuction scars usually heal well.

    Can removed fat be transferred?

    Removed fat can be purified and transferred to other areas where volume has been lost, including the fat, buttocks, breasts, or other areas.

    Are the results of liposuction permanent?

    The fat cells removed with liposuction are gone permanently and will not return. However, fat cells elsewhere can still grow if you gain weight.

    When can I exercise after liposuction?

    Most patients can resume light walking within about one week. More strenuous exercise should be avoided until 4-6 weeks gave passed.

    How long does liposuction take?

    Liposuction is a short treatment that generally takes less than three hours or less, depending on the number of areas treated.

    Is liposuction safe?

    Liposuction is generally considered a safe procedure, but it does carry risks, such as bleeding, reaction to anesthesia, or unfavorable results.

    What if I gain weight after liposuction?

    Your results may be diminished if you gain significant weight, with fat building up in other areas of the body that were not treated with liposuction.

    Can I combine liposuction with other procedures?

    Liposuction is commonly combined with other procedures, such as a brow lift, blepharoplasty, laser resurfacing treatments, and others.

    Your Liposuction Consultation in Houston

    During your consultation, Dr. Arroyo will:

    • Evaluate the areas you want to improve
    • Assess skin elasticity and fat distribution
    • Discuss your aesthetic goals
    • Explain the best liposuction techniques for your body
    • Provide a personalized treatment plan and pricing.

    This consultation ensures that your procedure is tailored to achieve natural-looking, balanced results.

    Schedule a Consultation

    In-person Virtual
    Logo media
    Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (832) 843-2702.
    Contact Us