Liposuction San Diego
What is liposuction?
Liposuction (aka “lipo”) removes excess fat deposits and improves your body contours and proportion to slim and reshape specific areas of the body.
San Diego liposuction options
Several liposuction techniques are common and available in the modern performance of liposuction surgery. At Restore SD Plastic Surgery in San Diego, we combine professional expertise, scientifically proven equipment, and established techniques to achieve your best lipo result.
The SAFELipo technique
We utilize the SAFELipo™ technique to safely and consistently offer optimal results. This lipo technique is a means of Separation, Aspiration, and Fat Equalization to create a smooth contour and facilitate maximum skin tightening while avoiding tissue injury or contour irregularities. SAFELipo offers the best, safest and most consistent results.
Liposuction is ideal for patients with localized fat deposits that are located in specific areas and associated with minimal overlying skin laxity. Excess fat can create an unbalanced contour and liposuction directly removes this fat with minimal downtime and in a single treatment.
Dr. Gallus will tailor an optimal surgical solution for your specific liposuction needs. As always, our goal is to deliver the highest quality surgical result in a manner that individualizes treatment and accounts for the subtle nuances of ideal form.
“I had arm liposuction with Dr. Gallus and it was the best decision ever! In my weight loss journey my arms were the most stubborn and it seemed almost impossible to make my arms thinner no matter how much I worked out, so I pulled the trigger and got liposuction and only wish I had done it sooner. Dr. Gallus and her whole staff were very accommodating and caring throughout the whole process. I was pretty nervous at first but they made me feel super comfortable. I feel so much more confident and can finally wear cute little tank tops! 10 out of 10 recommend!”
—Healthgrades Review for Dr. Gallus
Liposuction vs. non-invasive fat reduction techniques
We don’t believe in gimmicks and we are conscious of the potential risks of using heat-generating techniques such as laser, radiofrequency or ultrasound-assisted liposuction. These techniques rely on heat to augment the process but lead to thermal tissue damage and inflammation. We know that “smart” liposuction is defined by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon performing the operation and not the equipment.
Although many options exist for treating stubborn fat deposits, liposuction remains the gold standard. Non-invasive techniques have their place in the spectrum of potential treatments but don’t physically remove the fat cells. Non-invasive results take time and often require multiple treatments.
Although many options exist for treating areas of stubborn fat, liposuction remains the gold standard in permanent fat removal.
Candidates
You are a candidate for liposuction if you:
- Have good skin tone without excess loose skin
- Are not using liposuction as a weight loss procedure
- Are healthy and not taking any blood thinner medications
- Have localized areas of excess fat amenable to liposuction
- Are motivated to improve your appearance through liposuction
- Are at a stable weight and leading a healthy lifestyle
Learn more about whether you are a good candidate for a liposuction procedure in this video with Dr. Gallus:
Video transcript
“Patients who are good candidates for liposuction are at a healthy weight but have residual areas of stubborn fat. These areas are more commonly in the hips and thighs for women and in the abdomen and flanks for men, but it can vary from individual to individual. Some patients have residual fat deposits underneath their chin, no matter how much weight they lose. That person might be a good candidate for submental liposuction.
Submental liposuction is a relatively quick way to address that double chin. It can be done in-office under local anesthesia, in which I insert a small cannula and after numbing the area, gently suction that fat out permanently. It can add a nice youthful and chiseled look to your side profile and get rid of the double chin. Submental liposuction is often performed on both men and women who have that extra double chin. If you’re interested in learning more about liposuction, please reach out to us at Restore SD Plastic Surgery to learn more.”–Dr. Katerina Gallus
What areas can liposuction treat?
Liposuction can treat the following areas of the body by removing excess fat deposits and improving your body contours and proportion:
- Mid and upper back
- Bra fat
- Abdomen
- Waist
- Hips
- Upper arms
- Buttocks
- Cheeks
- Chin and neck
- Hips
- Knees
- Thighs
What cosmetic procedures can be combined with liposuction?
Liposuction can be combined with other plastic surgery procedures, such as facelift, breast reduction, labiaplasty, or a tummy tuck. If cellulite is a particular concern for your body, mention this during your initial consultation to discuss your options, as we offer other treatments, like Avéli, that are better suited for cellulite reduction than liposuction. We also offer non-surgical skin enhancement at like laser skin resurfacing and DiamondGlow facials for a full face and body glow-up!
Learn more about combining liposuction with other body contouring procedures in this video with Dr. Gallus:
Video transcript
“Liposuction is one of the most popular procedures that’s combined with other procedures. It is often combined with breast surgery. I commonly perform it with male breast reduction surgery, and it is a great add-on if you’re having other body contouring surgery such as a tummy tuck or a thigh lift. If you’re considering having liposuction in combination with another procedure, please seek us out for a consultation, and we can go over whether liposuction might be the right choice for you.”–Dr. Katerina Gallus
With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Gallus is a board certified plastic surgeon and Castle Connolly Top Doctor. She will partner with you to develop a tailored surgical plan that prioritizes your safety and results.
Liposuction surgery with the SAFELipo technique
Liposuction is most often performed under general anesthesia as a stand-alone procedure or combined with other surgeries. Liposuction surgery can take as little time as 30 minutes or last up to 3 hours depending on the areas treated.
What are the steps of a SAFELipo procedure?
This three step technique is a means of separation, aspiration, and fat equalization to create a smooth contour and facilitate maximum skin tightening while avoiding tissue injury or contour irregularities.
1) Dr. Gallus will make one or more very small incisions in the region to be treated.
2) The next step is to infuse a saline-based solution containing epinephrine and lidocaine to help reduce blood loss and minimize pain.
3) Once the solution has been allowed to set, the surgeon will then proceed with SAFELipo™.
SAFELipo™ utilizes power-assisted liposuction (PAL®) which decreases surgeon fatigue, improves surgical precision, and reduces tissue trauma. Dr. Gallus has been using the PAL® Liposuction system for over 10 years. She is proud to be the only San Diego board-certified plastic surgeon to take this common and effective technique to the next level – SAFELipo™.
The PAL® system is used in all three stages of the SAFELipo™ technique.
1) In the first step, the fat is separated with special cannulas. This loosens the fat and makes the fat removal step more effective.
2) Next, Dr. Gallus will remove the fat with small cannulas using the PL® system. With the PAL® system, fat removal is more safely and effectively accomplished and leads to reduced blood loss and tissue injury during this stage. Once the desired contour has been achieved Fat Equalization takes place. Again, a special cannula is inserted and the remaining fat is dispersed over the treatment area to ensure a smooth result.
3) Lastly, the small incisions will be closed with a dissolvable suture and you will be placed in a postoperative compression garment.
Is liposuction painful?
Many of Dr. Gallus’ San Diego liposuction patients wonder whether lipo is a painful procedure. Dr. Gallus discusses how she ensures her patients’ continued comfort in this video:
Video transcript
“Patients often ask if liposuction is a painful procedure. Liposuction is performed under both general and local anesthesia. At the time of liposuction, I infiltrate what we call tumescent solution. It is a lidocaine solution, so it has numbing medicine in it that goes into the area that’s going to be liposuctioned. After the tumescent solution is placed, the liposuction procedure is carried out. I use power-assisted liposuction, which consists of a vibrating cannula. This makes the procedure much more tolerable.
That being said, you can expect to have some bruising and swelling following the procedure. Most of my patients find that the discomfort goes away after several days with good compression and appropriate pain medications. If you’re interested in learning more about liposuction, please reach out to us at Restore SD Plastic Surgery to learn more.”–Dr. Katerina Gallus
FYI: We also offer Pro-Nox, a patient-controlled pain management system that allows you to administer your own pain relief during your treatment. Learn more about Pro-Nox here»
“I went in for a consultation for a tummy tuck, bbl, and lipo and was very impressed with Dr. Gallus and her staff. She made me feel very comfortable and answered any and every question I had (I had a lot lol). She truly made me feel like she cared about my safety and would do great work to achieve the results I wanted. She was very down to earth and relatable unlike other surgeons I’ve met with in prior consultations. I didn’t feel pressured or out of place in her office what so ever which is important to me. I was left with zero questions or concerns. I was unable to move forward with booking a date right now due to personal reasons but plan to do so in the future! 10/10 recommend!”
—Jasmine R., actual patient of Dr. Gallus
Your liposuction San Diego consultation
The Restore SD team is focused 100% on making you comfortable, even before you step foot in our office for your procedure! Knowing what to expect can take some of the anxiety out of sitting down with a plastic surgeon. Here’s what happens during a typical consultation with Dr. Gallus at her San Diego office:
- When you arrive, we greet you and make sure that we have all of your intake information, including your complete medical history. We email these to you ahead of time so that you complete our digital forms at home‚ with your information at hand, before arriving.
- Dr. Gallus reviews your medical history and any medications you take. Then, she sits down to talk with you face to face, though another clinical staff member is present throughout the physical exam to ensure your comfort. This is an open conversation, allowing you to express yourself and get Dr. Gallus’ expert input on tailoring liposuction surgery to meet your goals.
- We take digital images of your body using our Vectra 3D imaging system. This state-of-the-art camera and software visualizes possible outcomes, and we can adjust as we discuss your goals for your body—i.e. slimmer shape or curvier contour.
- Finally, after working out the procedure(s) that could meet your goals, you meet with our stellar patient care coordinator to go over a comprehensive, personalized fee quote that covers San Diego breast reduction pricing.
If you’re not ready to book a surgical date yet, you are welcome to return for a second consultation. In fact, we encourage this for you to be informed and empowered in your decision-making (and it’s completely normal). Get the scoop on consults »
We believe everyone deserves to look and feel their best! We also offer financing to support easier monthly payments for more affordable liposuction.
Recovery after liposuction
After the liposuction surgery is completed you will be able to go home with a responsible adult who should ideally be able to stay with you during recovery.
- Compression garments. You will be fitted with a compression garment to support your new and improved contour. This should be worn under your regular clothes for the next 4 weeks to minimize swelling.
- Bruising and swelling. Although there may be some bruising and swelling immediately after surgery, your newly improved shape will become apparent soon after the surgery. You can also incorporate lymphatic massage into your post-liposuction recovery plan to help minimize swelling, ensuring a smoother and more satisfying outcome.
- Post-surgery care. Most patients are sore after surgery but do not experience a significant amount of pain. Pain medication and antibiotics will be prescribed for the first week following surgery.
- Returning to physical activity. While you will be able to shower the next day, you should refrain from intense physical activity for 4 weeks. Most complications occur from getting too active too early, so be sure to select a surgical date that allows an appropriate amount of time to heal and gradually return to your more vigorous activities. Use our recovery calculator to help plan your timeline.
- Follow-up care. During the recovery period, you will have follow-ups with Dr. Gallus and will be guided back to your usual activities.
Your figure will continue to improve over the next 3 months. Your recovery will vary depending on the amount of fat reduction and the number of areas treated. The positive benefits of liposuction can be undone with weight gain – lasting results are enhanced by a continued commitment to healthy living. Happily, most lipo patients are motivated by their new and improved appearance to continue to maintain their new physique.
Results
The fat removal will be immediately noticeable and you can expect your results to improve as the swelling and bruising decrease over time. It’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle after liposuction surgery to ensure you achieve the best possible outcome.
View liposuction before & after photos »
- Key Benefits
- Glossary
- Precise removal of fat from specific areas of the body that are resistant to diet and exercise
- Involves small incisions that typically result in minimal scarring
- Has a relatively quick recovery period, allowing patients to return to daily activities sooner
- Long-lasting results, as the fat cells removed during the procedure do not come back
- Adipose Tissue – A type of connective tissue that stores fat in the body, which liposuction targets and removes for contouring and fat reduction purposes.
- Anesthesia – Medications used during liposuction surgery to prevent pain and discomfort, which can be local (numbing a specific area) or general (inducing sleep).
- Assisted liposuction – A technique where mechanical devices or ultrasound is used to break down fat before it is suctioned out.
- Body Contouring – A range of surgical and non-surgical procedures aimed at reshaping and refining the contours of the body; liposuction is one of the most common body contouring procedures.
- Cannula – A thin, hollow tube inserted through incisions during liposuction to loosen and suction out fat from the body.
- Compression Garments – Specialized clothing worn by patients after liposuction to minimize swelling, support the treated areas, and help the body adjust to its new shape.
- Fat Cells – Cells in the body that store fat; liposuction permanently removes fat cells from the treated area, reducing its capacity to store fat.
- Fat Equalization – A technique used after liposuction to smooth out the remaining fat and prevent irregularities in the skin’s surface, enhancing the overall appearance and uniformity of the treated area.
- Incisions – Small cuts made in the skin to allow for the insertion of the cannula during liposuction; they are typically small and strategically placed to minimize visible scarring.
- Liposuction (Lipo) – A cosmetic surgery procedure that removes excess fat from specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, and arms, to reshape and contour these areas.
- Local Anesthesia – A type of anesthesia used to numb only the area to be treated, allowing the patient to remain awake but comfortable during the procedure.
- Modified tumescent – A variation of the tumescent liposuction technique that uses less fluid injection into the fatty tissue, reducing both swelling and recovery time.
- Non-Surgical Treatments – Procedures that reduce body fat without surgery, such as cryolipolysis or laser fat reduction, which can be alternatives or complements to liposuction for some patients.
- Power-Assisted Liposuction: A technique that uses a powered cannula to oscillate at a rapid pace, facilitating easier fat removal.
- Recovery Time – The period following liposuction during which the body heals; this varies among individuals but generally includes rest, limited physical activity, and wearing compression garments.
- Scar Care – Practices and treatments to minimize the appearance of scars following liposuction, including the use of silicone sheets, gels, and proper wound care.
- Stable Weight – A weight level that does not fluctuate significantly, important for maintaining the effects of body contouring procedures.
- Suction-Assisted Liposuction (SAL) – The traditional method of liposuction that uses a vacuum to remove fat through a cannula.
- Tickle liposuction – A minimally invasive method that uses low-frequency acoustic vibrations to loosen fat cells, making them easier to remove and often resulting in less discomfort.
- Tumescent Liposuction – A technique where a medicated solution is injected into the fatty areas before liposuction to reduce pain and bleeding.
- Ultrasonic Liposuction (UAL) – A technique that uses ultrasonic vibrations to liquefy fat cells before removal, potentially allowing for easier removal of fat and less trauma to surrounding tissues.
Liposuction Videos
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Frequently Asked Questions about La Jolla Liposuction
Board-certified San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Katerina Gallus has over a decade of experience in liposuction treatment and techniques. In addition to operating in a fully credentialed facility, we take the time to listen to your goals and partner with you to develop the best and safest surgical plan that will optimize your results and leave you looking and feeling your best.
Call 858-224-2281 or contact us to schedule your liposuction consultation today!
References »
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Wu S, Coombs DM, Gurunian R. Liposuction: Concepts, safety, and techniques in body-contouring surgery. Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine. 2020 Jun;87(6):367-375. doi: 10.3949/ccjm.87a.19097.
Karcher C. Liposuction Considerations in Men. Dermatol Clin. 2018 Jan;36(1):75-80. doi: 10.1016/j.det.2017.09.010.
Shridharani SM, Broyles JM, Matarasso A. Liposuction devices: technology update. Medical devices (Auckland, NZ). 2014 Jul 21;7:241-51. doi: 10.2147/MDER.S47322.
Venkataram J. Tumescent liposuction: a review. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery. 2008 Jul;1(2):49-57. doi: 10.4103/0974-2077.44159.
Diniz DA, Gonçalves KK, Silva CC, Araújo ES, Carneiro SC, Lago CA, Vasconcelos BC. Complications associated with submental liposuction: a scoping review. Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal. 2022 May 1;27(3):e257-e264. doi: 10.4317/medoral.25122.
Tong Y, Liu P, Wang Y, Geng C, Han X, Ma J, Li F, Cai L. The Effect of Liposuction Cannula Diameter on Fat Retention-Based on a Rheological Simulation. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open. 2018 Nov 19;6(11):e2021. doi: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000002021.
Yoshida S, Koshima I, Imai H, Roh S, Mese T, Uchiki T, Sasaki A, Nagamatsu S. Effect of Postoperative Compression Therapy on the Success of Liposuction in Patients with Advanced Lower Limb Lymphedema. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2021 Oct 22;10(21):4852. doi: 10.3390/jcm10214852.
Azzi AJ, Lafrenière AS, Viezel-Mathieu A, Hemmerling TM, Gilardino M. Objective Quantification of Liposuction Results. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2018 Jul-Sep;11(3):105-109. doi: 10.4103/JCAS.JCAS_102_18. PMID: 30533983; PMCID: PMC6243817.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Katerina Gallus — Updated on Sep 12, 2025
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