Liposuction
In Fort Worth, TX
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Liposuction at New Leaf
Some areas of fat remain despite a stable weight and consistent habits. Liposuction planning focuses on those areas, your skin quality, and the proportions you would like to refine.
Liposuction removes localized fat to change body contour. It is not a weight-loss treatment and does not remove significant loose skin. Skin elasticity, the treatment area, and whether skin removal is also needed influence the plan.
Liposuction Before & Afters
Original photographs from New Leaf’s published gallery. Individual results vary.
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What Is Liposuction?
Liposuction removes localized fat deposits using small cannulas inserted beneath the skin through small access points. The cannula is used to loosen and remove unwanted fat, helping improve the contour of the treated area.
The procedure is best understood as sculpting or reshaping rather than weight reduction. It targets fat that sits under the skin and affects body contour. It does not remove deep internal fat around the organs, and it does not replace a healthy lifestyle.
- Abdomen
- Lower belly
- Flanks or love handles
- Hips
- Back
- Bra line
- Upper arms
- Inner thighs
- Outer thighs
- Knees
- Waistline
- Other selected areas based on anatomy
For many patients, liposuction is most effective when it is used to improve a specific contour concern rather than as a broad weight-loss strategy. During consultation, Dr. Candis Lovelace will help determine whether your concerns are caused by localized fat, loose skin, muscle laxity, or a combination of these factors.
Candidates / Liposuction
Am I a Good Candidate for Liposuction?
The best candidates for liposuction are generally healthy individuals who have localized fat deposits and realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve. Good candidates usually have enough skin elasticity for the skin to contract after fat removal.
- Have stubborn fat in specific areas
- Are at or near a stable weight
- Have maintained weight stability for several months
- Have good skin elasticity
- Are in good overall health
- Do not smoke or are willing to stop before surgery
- Understand that liposuction does not remove loose skin
- Have realistic expectations about results and recovery
- Want targeted contour improvement rather than major weight loss
Patients with significant skin laxity, cellulite, poor skin elasticity, or a history of thick or keloid scarring may need a more detailed discussion about risks, limitations, and alternatives.
Skin quality is one of the most important factors in liposuction planning. If the skin is firm and elastic, it may retract better after fat removal. If the skin is loose, stretched, or damaged from pregnancy, weight loss, or aging, removing fat alone may not create the desired shape.
During your consultation, Dr. Lovelace will evaluate whether liposuction is likely to give you the result you want or whether another procedure would provide a better outcome.
Your Questions Belong Here.
Explore an individual plan with Dr. Candis Lovelace.
Procedure / Liposuction
How Is Liposuction Performed?
Liposuction is performed using small access points placed near the treatment areas. A thin cannula is inserted beneath the skin to loosen and remove unwanted fat.
The specific technique and anesthesia plan depend on the areas being treated, the amount of fat being removed, and whether additional procedures are performed. Smaller treatment areas may require a different approach than more extensive body contouring involving multiple regions.
During the procedure, Dr. Lovelace carefully treats the planned areas with attention to proportion, symmetry, and contour transitions. Removing fat evenly and conservatively is important for a smooth result. Over-removal can lead to contour irregularities, while under-treatment may not provide enough visible change.
Dr. Lovelace focuses on creating smoother transitions and balanced contour rather than simply removing as much fat as possible. The goal is a natural-looking improvement that fits your body.
Recovery / Liposuction
Recovery After Liposuction
Recovery varies depending on the number of areas treated and the extent of fat removal. Most patients experience swelling, bruising, soreness, and temporary firmness during early healing.
First Few Days
Swelling, bruising, drainage from access points, and soreness are expected. Compression garments are commonly recommended to help support healing and reduce swelling. Light walking is usually encouraged early to support circulation, but strenuous activity should be avoided until cleared by Dr. Lovelace.
One to Two Weeks
Many patients return to light daily activity or desk work depending on comfort level and the extent of treatment. Bruising and swelling may still be present, and compression garments may still be needed. Patients should continue to avoid heavy lifting, vigorous workouts, and activities that increase swelling.
Three to Six Weeks
Activity gradually increases. Swelling continues to improve, and the treated areas begin to feel more natural. Some firmness, numbness, or uneven swelling may still be present during this phase.
Several Months
Final contour continues to develop as swelling resolves and tissues settle. It may take several months to see the full result. Patience is important because early swelling can temporarily hide the final improvement.
Planning / Liposuction
Liposuction vs. BodyTite
Some patients want fat reduction but also have mild skin laxity. In those cases, Dr. Lovelace may discuss whether BodyTite or another radiofrequency-assisted treatment may be appropriate.
- Liposuction: Removes localized fat and improves contour.
- BodyTite: May help reduce fat while also providing tissue tightening in selected patients.
- Skin removal surgery: May be better for significant loose or hanging skin.
The right option depends on skin quality, fat distribution, treatment area, and your desired result.
BodyTite may be discussed when a patient has mild to moderate laxity and wants more tightening than liposuction alone may provide. However, patients with more severe loose skin may still need a surgical lift or skin-removal procedure. Dr. Lovelace will explain which option is most realistic for your anatomy.
Before You Decide
Answers for your planning
Risks and Considerations
Like all surgical procedures, liposuction involves risks and limitations. These are reviewed during your consultation so you understand what applies to your specific case.
- Swelling and bruising
- Temporary numbness or sensation changes
- Contour irregularities
- Asymmetry
- Loose or deflated-looking skin if skin elasticity is poor
- Fluid accumulation
- Bleeding or infection
- Scarring at access points
- Skin discoloration
- Persistent firmness
- Need for revision surgery
- Anesthesia-related risks
Choosing the right candidate and the right procedure is one of the most important parts of liposuction planning. If skin laxity, muscle separation, or weight instability is present, a different procedure or a staged plan may be more appropriate.
How Much Does Liposuction Cost?
The cost of liposuction in Fort Worth depends on the number of areas treated, surgical time, anesthesia fees, facility fees, complexity of the procedure, and whether additional treatments are performed.
A personalized quote is provided during consultation after Dr. Lovelace evaluates your goals and creates a treatment plan.
- The number of treatment areas
- The amount of contouring needed
- Whether liposuction is performed alone or with another procedure
- Anesthesia and facility requirements
- Expected surgical time
- Whether fat transfer is included
Because liposuction is usually considered cosmetic, insurance generally does not cover it. Financing options may be available for qualifying patients.
What Results Can You Expect?
Liposuction can improve body contour by reducing localized fat in treated areas. Patients often notice better shape, smoother contours, and improved proportions.
- Reduced stubborn fat
- Improved waistline or flank contour
- Better definition in treated areas
- Smoother body proportions
- Improved fit in clothing
- More balanced transitions between body areas
- A more refined shape when weight remains stable
The fat cells removed during liposuction are gone permanently, but remaining fat cells can still enlarge with weight gain. Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve your results.
It is also important to understand that liposuction results develop gradually. Swelling can make treated areas look larger or firmer at first. As swelling decreases and the tissues settle, the contour becomes more apparent.
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Meet the practice
Dr. Candis Lovelace, MD, FACS is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Her practice includes cosmetic surgery of the breast, body, and face, as well as reconstructive care.
New Leaf Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
4400 Heritage Trace Parkway, Suite 200
Fort Worth, TX 76244
817-380-1087
The office welcomes patients from Fort Worth and nearby communities, including Keller and Southlake. Contact the practice to plan your visit.
Prepare for your consultation
Bring your goals, relevant medical history, medication list, and questions about alternatives, risks, recovery, and costs. Ask which options are appropriate for you and what help or follow-up you may need.
Further reading
General patient education; an individual examination is needed for treatment advice. Content updated .