Not everyone is fortunate enough to be born with a perfect body. Even more unfortunate is that we have little control over where and how fat is stored. That means that all of the celery, sit-ups, and weight lifting won't be able to get rid of that stubborn flab beneath your arms or around your midsection. Genetics plays a large role in how our bodies develop, limiting our own ability to change them through a healthy lifestyle.

For many people, the only way to permanently erase these unsightly lumps and bumps is through plastic surgery. Liposuction is a popular body sculpting tool. This procedure helps eliminate fat and smooth out small areas of the body. The results have the potential to last a lifetime, meaning that as long as you maintain a healthy weight and a reasonable exercise regime, the fat won't come back.

The procedure can be used on almost every area of the body. Some of the most commonly requested spots include the stomach and lower back (or love handles), underneath the arms, and the inner and outer thighs. Liposuction is also commonly used above the knees and in areas around the face such as below the neck.

The length of the procedure varies depending on the area and extent of work needed to be performed, which means the price will also vary accordingly. During the surgery, a small incision will be made near the area to be sculpted. Most plastic surgeons are very adept at camouflaging the incision within the body's natural contours, or else they make them as tiny as possible.

For wet liposuction (the most commonly performed method) a syringe filled with numbing medicine and water will be inserted into the body in an equal amount to the amount of fat that will be removed. This helps prevent excess bruising and allows for smoother maneuvering.

A hollow tube called a cannula is then inserted into the incision. This tube is attached to a device that works similarly to a vacuum. The surgeon saws the cannula back and forth along the layers of unwanted fat, loosening and removing the excess cells.

After the surgery is completed, the incision is sewn up. In some cases, a drainage tube will be necessary to help with the healing process. During the recovery process, there will be some bruising, swelling, and tenderness for a week or two. Dressing will be applied and will need to be changed regularly.

The results will begin to be visible within a few weeks, but it may take a month or two for all of the swelling to subside. Often little actual fat is removed from the body; usually less than a pound, so don't expect the number on the scale to drastically drop. You can expect your clothes to fit better, and your body will have a more streamlined appearance.

Body sculpting isn't the right procedure for everyone, so if you're interested it is best to independently conduct research and then consult with two to three qualified and board-certified plastic surgeons to help you make the best decision.