These problem spots can be embarrassing and cause you plenty of stress. Cosmetic surgery has made it possible to finally eliminate these fatty deposits and slim down your figure in all the right places. The key is mini liposuction.

What is it?

You may have heard of liposuction, but may wonder what mini liposuction is. The differences are that this procedure takes less time and is more simplistic than traditional liposuction. It is an ideal procedure for those who are within 10 percent of their optimum body weight with just a few "trouble areas" to fix.

It is typically only performed on those 18 and older in relatively good physical health with realistic expectations about the results of the surgery. Most plastic surgeons encourage patients to stop smoking at least two weeks before a mini liposuction, as smoking can constrict the blood vessels and limit the blood flood to the healing wounds.

What Parts of the Body are Best Suited for Mini Liposuction?

Mini liposuction can be performed on almost any part of the body, but typically in order to be a true mini surgery, the extra fatty deposits must be minimal. Many of the most popular body parts for this plastic surgery include the upper knees, the chest areas close to the under arms, the neck, and the ankles. There are plenty of other places that can be treated and a qualified cosmetic surgeon can help you determine the best regions to target with this procedure.

What will the initial consultation include?

Before you have this surgery performed, you will first meet with your plastic surgeon to make sure you are a good fit for the procedure and to talk about your desires and concerns. The doctor will require a full medical history and will evaluate your trouble spots to see if they can be taken care of with liposuction. Your doctor will talk to you about the importance of kicking your smoking habit prior to the surgery and will discuss the other risks and limitations of a mini liposuction treatment.

How does it work?

With mini liposuction, typically only local anesthesia is required, instead of general anesthesia which entails many more health risks and complications. The plastic surgeon will make small incisions in inconspicuous areas of the targeted body parts.

Mini cannula-smaller versions of the standard liposuction tubes-are inserted into the fat layer and the unwanted fat is suctioned out. Usually this amounts to no more than two and a half pounds per region. The entire surgery lasts about one hour, much shorter than standard liposuction.

Some of the greatest benefits of mini liposuction include faster recovery, less pain, quicker returns to work and smaller price tags. Your plastic surgeon can help you determine if you are an ideal candidate for this amazing little surgery.