There are often common misperceptions about many of today's cosmetic procedures and treatments that seem to flood the market. Many of these treatments are very effective and valuable treatment options for patients seeking the services of cosmetic surgery. However, many patients confuse the uses of each treatment and mistake their own candidacy for these treatments.

One such procedure that is often misunderstood is liposuction. Commonly thought of as a quick weight loss solution for overweight and obese individuals, it is actually no such thing. It is best described as a body contouring treatment, used primarily for those patients with isolated, localized pockets of fat or fatty cells. Those searching for weight loss solutions should consult their physician for other options, steering clear from this cosmetic surgical procedure, as it is not intended to be used as the treatment many mistake it for. Liposuction can, however, be a viable and very valuable option for those looking to rid themselves of embarrassing pockets of localized fat. Some areas do not respond well to exercise and may be tougher to shape than other areas of one's body. This is where liposuction comes into play as an effective option in removing these unwanted fat pockets to help patients look and feel their best.

Liposuction is usually performed using a general anesthetic or a localized anesthetic if the area is small enough and need be. Surgeons should place incisions in the least conspicuous places to maintain the cosmetic nature of the procedure. After all, most would consider trading pockets of fat for noticeable, unsightly scarring a push. Using a device called a ‘cannula', surgeons remove the unwanted fat from the patient's body and damage the remaining fat cells. The body then removes or repairs these remaining, damaged fat cells, often taking weeks to complete. It should be pointed out that removing an excess of fat in one area might cause dents to appear in the patient's body. That is why the surgeon should remove only the top layer of fat during surgery.

Plastic surgery has become very popular over the past couple of decades and indications are that the trend will continue. Liposuction, many may be surprised to learn, is the most commonly performed cosmetic procedure in the United States, thus indicating the importance of this procedure for many Americans. As is true with many things in life and in medicine, communication can help to solve many problems. The surgeon and the patient should be on the same page about the procedure and the responsibilities the procedure brings to the patient. As mentioned previously, this procedure is not meant to be a weight loss solution, but as a body contouring option. Healthy individuals are the best candidates and maintaining a health lifestyle is important after the procedure is performed. All of the patient's previous medical history and complications faced in the past should be disclosed so that the physician can better serve and treat the patient in a safe and reliable manner. As with any medical procedure, certain risks are inherent. Discussing all possible complications and risks prior to the procedure is wise, as it allows the patient to fully understand the treatment and all of the responsibilities that go along with it.