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Medical Author:

Joel Schlessinger, MD

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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Every method has its pros and cons, and many types of surgeons perform liposuction. The most important qualification to check is actual photographic results or via speaking with previous patients. This will inform you if the surgeon does a good job consistently, stands by his or her results, cares for the patient well (both before and after the surgery), and handles any complications in a prompt and thorough manner.

Many variations of liposuction have been devised over the years, including ultrasonic liposuction, laser liposuction, the "wet" method, and the "super-wet" method of liposuction. Currently, data doesn't show any significant difference when these results are compared with the traditional and tumescent liposuction procedures. The newer laser-assisted methods do add some benefits from the standpoint of larger amounts of fat being obtained and more retraction after the procedure, but there are also risks from this method if performed by unqualified or "learning" surgeons.