Is Liposuction Painful?

You will be under anesthesia for your procedure, so you shouldn’t have a negative experience. You will experience some pain and soreness at the treated sites during your recovery period, but this can be alleviated with the use of pain medication and ice packs. You should feel like yourself again after a week or two.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

Dr. Golger will want to see you around a week after your procedure to ensure a healthy recovery. After that, you can expect two or three follow-up appointments, typically six weeks after your surgery and then again after six months. Dr. Golger will always let you know when he would like to see you again before you leave your check-up.

How Long Until I See Results?

After your procedure, you may notice some visible differences, depending on the amount of fat removed; however, you will still experience swelling, bruising, and possible redness. Many of our patients tend to see their final results between one and three months.

What Will the Scarring Look Like?

The incisions made during liposuction are minimal in size, typically measuring between 0.4 and 0.8 inches, and are strategically placed within natural skin creases to minimize visibility and maintain discretion. Over time, these small scars tend to fade significantly, gradually softening in appearance until they become barely noticeable.

When Can I Exercise Again After My Liposuction?

Patients are encouraged to begin light movement, such as gentle walking, on the same day or the day after their liposuction procedure to promote healthy circulation. Most individuals can return to their routine daily activities within 7 to 14 days, depending on their rate of healing progress. However, more strenuous exercises, including intense cardio and strength training, should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks following surgery, in accordance with Dr. Golger’s post-operative guidelines.

Can I Combine Liposuction with Other Procedures?

Depending on your needs and wants, many cosmetic treatments can be combined with Liposuction. Our patients in Scottsdale often undergo a tummy tuck to achieve a tighter, flatter stomach or a breast lift to create a more contoured body. Most patients choose to utilize the fat removed for a butt lift or breast augmentation as part of their body sculpting. If you have a particular appearance you are looking for, please discuss this with Dr. Golger during your initial consultation, and he will be able to make his expert recommendations.

What Are the Risks Associated with Liposuction?

Liposuction is considered a generally safe and well-established cosmetic procedure, especially when performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon. However, like any surgical treatment, there are potential risks and side effects that patients should be aware of. These may include reactions to anesthesia, bruising, or changes in skin sensation that could persist after healing. In rare cases, there may be injury to deeper structures such as nerves, blood vessels, muscles, or even internal organs. Other possible complications include fluid buildup, infection, irregularities in skin contour or pigmentation, and delayed wound healing. Some patients may experience persistent swelling, skin rippling, or an exacerbation of cellulite. There is also a small risk of more serious concerns, such as deep vein thrombosis, cardiac or pulmonary issues, or heat-related injury, when ultrasound-assisted techniques are used. In some instances, a follow-up or revision procedure may be necessary to achieve the desired results. If you experience any unusual or prolonged symptoms during your recovery, please contact our office immediately so we can ensure your healing is on track and address any issues promptly. Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities.

Will Fat Cells Come Back Once They Are Removed with a Liposuction Procedure?

After fat removal from a Liposuction, you should not see weight gain in that area again, as long as you maintain your healthy weight and habits. Patients achieve incredible results with liposuction, and the fat cells removed can be used in fat transfer for other areas of the body, such as a Brazilian butt lift or Breast Augmentation.

Can You Be Overweight and Still Be a Candidate for Liposuction?

Dr. Golger is regarded as one of the top liposuction surgeons. The surgery he provides is a body sculpting procedure; however, he recommends that patients maintain a healthy diet and a stable weight to achieve optimal results. Creating healthy habits can create a safer liposuction surgery and recovery process. If you're a few pounds overweight, that likely won't be an issue, but it will be discussed during the consultation.

Can Fat Transfer Be Done During Liposuction?

For patients wanting to remove unwanted fat and transfer it to another area of the body, fat grafting is performed. Other cosmetic procedures that include fat are facial fat transfer, BBL, and certain breast augmentations. Dr. Golger specializes in facial fat transfer. During your consultation, you'll want to discuss with Dr. Golger if you're a good candidate for fat grafting or any other cosmetic procedures you're interested in.

How Do I Find the Best Liposuction Plastic Surgeon Near Me in Scottsdale?

When searching for the best liposuction plastic surgeon in Scottsdale, it's essential to start by verifying credentials. Choose a board-certified plastic surgeon, preferably one who is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Experience also plays a critical role, so look for a surgeon with a proven track record in liposuction and body-contouring procedures. Ensure the practice operates in accredited surgical centers or hospitals. For example, Dr. Golger holds privileges at top-tier local facilities, such as those affiliated with HonorHealth. Reviewing before-and-after photo galleries can help you assess the consistency and natural quality of a surgeon’s work. Additionally, patient testimonials offer valuable insights into the level of care and overall satisfaction. Finally, your consultation should be personal, informative, and leave you feeling confident—Dr. Golger is known for his warm, approachable demeanor and thoughtful, individualized approach to each patient's goals.

Best Liposuction In Scottsdale, AZ | Plastic Surgery Scottsdale

Introduction to Liposuction

If you ask around, most people say a little weight is a good thing; it helps you look healthy and, these days, people like to have a little something to hold onto. That being said, there are areas where unwanted, stubborn pockets of fat persist, which is a common problem that many people share.

As a Scottsdale plastic surgeon, Dr. Alexander Golger offers specialized services and local expertise to patients seeking trusted cosmetic procedures in the Scottsdale area.

If you are looking for a little extra assistance in losing weight and achieving your ideal body, consider Liposuction in Scottsdale from board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Alexander Golger. To learn more about this procedure, please continue reading the information provided below.

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What Sets Dr. Golger Apart as the Premier Liposuction Practice in Scottsdale?

Dr. Alexander Golger has performed numerous body-contouring procedures across North America.
He is a frequently invited speaker at national and international plastic-surgery conferences and the author of multiple peer-reviewed journal articles.
Earned his MD from McMaster University, completed a 5-year plastic surgery residency at the University of Toronto, and holds a B.Ed. in Human Kinetics
Dr. Golger is board-certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and the American Board of Plastic Surgery; a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, The Aesthetic Society, and the Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons.

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction, often referred to as ‘Body Contouring’, is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that involves removing excess fat deposits to slim and reshape specific areas of the body, while simultaneously improving your body contours and proportions. Liposuction is performed by making small incisions and using specialized instruments to target and remove fat from selected areas. Some of the more common areas that our Scottsdale patients can treat with the procedure include:

Abdomen
Ankles
Arms
Buttocks
Cheeks
Chin
Double chin
Hips
Knees
Neck
Thighs
Upper arms
Waist
Bra fat

Neck liposuction is also available for patients seeking improved neck and jawline contours.

Patients also have the option of having the Liposuction procedure performed alone or in conjunction with another procedure, such as a Facelift, Breast Reduction, or Tummy Tuck.

During the procedure, a thin cannula is inserted into the fat layer to remove fat cells from the treated areas. Liposuction removes excess fat and is designed to eliminate excess fat from treated areas that are resistant to diet and exercise.

We like to remind our patients that this is not a weight loss procedure or a weight loss solution, but rather a helpful way to remove stubborn fat. We encourage you to use this procedure as a springboard to lose weight and achieve a better body contour with proper diet and exercise.

Dr. Golger uses advanced techniques and customized treatments to achieve optimal results for each patient.

Liposuction Quick Facts

Surgery Time: 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on the treatment areas
Price: Starting at $5,000 (varies based on scope & anesthesia)
Recovery: Most patients return to daily activities within 1–2 weeks; full recovery in 4–6 weeks
Results: Initial contour visible after swelling subsides; final results typically appear within 1–3 months

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Different Liposuction Techniques

There are many options available when it comes to Liposuction, so you will need to discuss with Dr. Golger what is available and what he recommends. Some advanced techniques utilize ultrasonic energy to assist in fat removal. Some choices include:

Laser Assisted Liposuction (LAL)

Laser-assisted liposuction is a fat removal solution that utilizes laser energy to liquefy fat cells, facilitating easier and faster removal, as well as providing mild skin tightening benefits. It offers a quicker and less painful recovery, as inflammation is much less aggressive due to the less invasive procedure.

Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL)

Power-Assisted Liposuction is a method of liposuction that utilizes a cannula with a vibrating tip to break down dense deposits of fat more quickly and easily, resulting in a faster recovery. This technique also helps make the process smoother. There is a limit to what power-assisted liposuction can achieve, with the average amount of fat cells that can be removed typically ranging between six and eight pounds.

Suction-Assisted Liposuction (SAL)

This is the original type of liposuction. When used for body contouring plastic surgery, Dr. Golger will utilize a cannula attached to a vacuum to remove fat from beneath the skin. In some cases, the tube may be inserted through several points to treat an area from different angles.

Tumescent Liposuction

Tumescent liposuction is a surgical technique that involves injecting a tumescent fluid into the treatment area before inserting a small tube, known as a cannula, through the incision. The fluid breaks up the stubborn fat deposits, making them easier to remove. Also, when the tumescent fluid is injected, it can also help minimize bruising.

Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction (UAL)

Like LAL, this approach uses ultrasound to break up the fat. It must also be used in conjunction with SAL or PAL to remove fat effectively. This type of liposuction is particularly beneficial for patients who have undergone liposuction in the past and have significant scarring present.

All techniques are designed to minimize visible scarring by using small, strategically placed incisions.

What Are the Benefits of Liposuction?

At Plastic Surgery Scottsdale, our Liposuction patients have seen the following benefits from their liposuction treatment:

Boosts your self-esteem
Can improve your health and lifestyle
Gives you a more shapely and defined body
Improves your appearance and how others perceive you
Permanently removes unwanted fat
Removes fat that even diet and exercise can’t
Safely removes fat
Helps achieve a more toned appearance
Creates a contoured appearance by refining body shape

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Who Are The Best Candidates For Liposuction?

Liposuction is a popular procedure that Scottsdale patients have found to be a great option for both men and women of most ages. To be good traditional liposuction candidates, our patients should have the following characteristics:

Age is not a major consideration; however, older patients may have diminished skin elasticity and may not achieve the same results as younger patients with tighter skin.
Be close to your target weight with firm, elastic skin, and have pockets of excess fat in certain areas.
Have realistic expectations about what the procedure can do for you.
Is physically healthy, psychologically stable, and realistic in their expectations.

It is important to note that liposuction is not a substitute for significant weight loss. Achieving significant weight loss and reaching your target weight should be a prerequisite for considering this procedure.

Maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle after liposuction is essential for long-term results and overall well-being.

What’s the First Step?

Getting started with your liposuction journey in Scottsdale begins by scheduling a personalized consultation with Dr. Alexander Golger at Plastic Surgery Scottsdale. During this one-on-one meeting, you’ll have the opportunity to openly discuss your aesthetic goals and the specific areas of your body you’d like to enhance. It’s essential to disclose your complete medical history, including current medications, supplements, smoking habits, and any previous surgeries, as these factors can impact your treatment plan and surgical safety.

Dr. Golger will conduct a thorough assessment of your overall health, examine areas with excess fat, and evaluate your skin’s elasticity to determine the most effective approach for your specific needs. He’ll walk you through the options available and recommend the technique that best suits your needs. Once you’ve agreed on a plan, a customized surgical strategy will be created just for you. Our Patient Coordinator will then assist in finalizing the details and scheduling your procedure.

To ensure your safety and optimal results, you’ll receive clear preoperative instructions covering everything from dietary guidelines to which medications or supplements should be paused before surgery. If you happen to develop a cold, infection, or skin irritation before your scheduled procedure, it may need to be delayed until you’re fully recovered.

How Do I Prepare for My Liposuction?

Medical Review & Medications: Please disclose all medications, supplements, and medical history during your consultation.
Smoking: Quit smoking several weeks prior to surgery to enhance healing.
Healthy Habits: Maintain a balanced diet and exercise routine leading up to the procedure.
Pre-op Instructions: Follow guidelines on eating, drinking, and avoiding certain vitamins or medications.

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What to Expect on the Day of Liposuction

On the day of your procedure, the type of anesthesia used will vary, with local anesthesia typically employed for small areas and general anesthesia utilized for more extensive procedures.

Dr. Golger will begin by making strategically placed, tiny incisions. Through these small incisions (often around 0.4-0.8 inches in length), a blunt-tipped instrument called a cannula is inserted back and forth to loosen and vacuum out the fat. The cannula is connected to rubber tubing that is attached to a machine generating high vacuum pressure.

The procedure can last from 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on the number of body areas being operated on.

Liposuction Recovery

Following your liposuction procedure, it’s completely normal to experience some fluid drainage from the small incisions. To help manage this, Dr. Golger may place a temporary drainage tube beneath the skin for a couple of days. You’ll also be given a snug-fitting compression garment to wear, which helps minimize swelling and supports your body as it adapts to its new contours. It’s important to understand that while liposuction removes unwanted fat, it does not tighten loose or excess skin. If skin laxity is a concern, Dr. Golger may recommend pairing your treatment with a lifting procedure to enhance your final outcome.

Recovery is a gradual process, with swelling and bruising typically improving over several weeks. Most patients are able to resume light activity within a few days and return to their regular routines—including exercise—within a few weeks, depending on the rate of their body’s natural healing process.

Because liposuction is performed on an outpatient basis, you’ll need to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home and assist you during the first 24 to 48 hours. While modern techniques have reduced some discomfort, it’s still common to feel soreness, tenderness, swelling, or temporary numbness in the treated areas. Dr. Golger may prescribe medications to manage pain, prevent infection, and aid in recovery.

Feeling emotional or anxious after surgery is also quite normal. These feelings typically subside as your body heals and your results start to take shape, helping you feel more confident and satisfied with your transformation.

4 Quick Tips for a Better Recovery

Compression Garment: Wear as directed (typically for several weeks) to reduce swelling and achieve optimal results.
Drain Care: Monitor fluid drain sites and follow cleaning protocols if drains are placed.
Activity Levels: Light walking is encouraged immediately to boost circulation. Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for 4 to 6 weeks.
Swelling and Bruising: Use ice packs and stay hydrated to minimize discomfort. Minor discoloration is common and typically resolves over time.

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How Much Does Liposuction Cost in Scottsdale, AZ?

The cost of Liposuction procedures in Scottsdale is based on several factors, including the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia cost, and facility fee, as well as the areas of contour change and the predicted length of the procedure. For the most accurate cost of your liposuction procedure, please schedule your consultation with Dr. Golger.

Why Choose Us?

Dr. Alexander Golger earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario. With numerous published articles in medical journals and years of successful surgical results, Dr. Golger is frequently asked to share his knowledge and insights at national and international surgeons’ conferences. At both his plastic surgery clinics in Toronto and Scottsdale, Dr. Golger strives to create an atmosphere of trust and relaxation, where his patients feel free to discuss their aesthetic vision openly. Dr. Golger’s Scottsdale office provides a welcoming environment for consultations and procedures, ensuring local patients feel comfortable throughout their experience.

Dr. Golger is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS), the Fellowship of the Royal Colleges of Surgeons (FRCS), the Ontario Medical Association (OMA), the Canadian Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (CSAPS), and the Canadian Medical Association (CMA). He uses this information to create individualized treatment plans that precisely address patients’ aesthetic trouble zones while emphasizing their natural beauty, providing the best liposuction results that Scottsdale patients can receive.

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Schedule Your Consultation

If you are serious about losing weight but can’t seem to shed it off, no matter your healthy diet or how hard you try, Liposuction in Scottsdale could be the perfect solution to remove stubborn fat deposits. To schedule your liposuction consultation with Dr. Golger, please call Plastic Surgery Scottsdale or use our consultation request form to initiate your appointment. A helpful member of our team will be in touch with you.

Liposuction FAQs

Your procedure questions answered.

You will be under anesthesia for your procedure, so you shouldn’t have a negative experience. You will experience some pain and soreness at the treated sites during your recovery period, but this can be alleviated with the use of pain medication and ice packs. You should feel like yourself again after a week or two.
Dr. Golger will want to see you around a week after your procedure to ensure a healthy recovery. After that, you can expect two or three follow-up appointments, typically six weeks after your surgery and then again after six months. Dr. Golger will always let you know when he would like to see you again before you leave your check-up.
The incisions made during liposuction are minimal in size, typically measuring between 0.4 and 0.8 inches, and are strategically placed within natural skin creases to minimize visibility and maintain discretion. Over time, these small scars tend to fade significantly, gradually softening in appearance until they become barely noticeable.
Patients are encouraged to begin light movement, such as gentle walking, on the same day or the day after their liposuction procedure to promote healthy circulation. Most individuals can return to their routine daily activities within 7 to 14 days, depending on their rate of healing progress. However, more strenuous exercises, including intense cardio and strength training, should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks following surgery, in accordance with Dr. Golger’s post-operative guidelines.
Depending on your needs and wants, many cosmetic treatments can be combined with Liposuction. Our patients in Scottsdale often undergo a tummy tuck to achieve a tighter, flatter stomach or a breast lift to create a more contoured body. Most patients choose to utilize the fat removed for a butt lift or breast augmentation as part of their body sculpting. If you have a particular appearance you are looking for, please discuss this with Dr. Golger during your initial consultation, and he will be able to make his expert recommendations.
Liposuction is considered a generally safe and well-established cosmetic procedure, especially when performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon. However, like any surgical treatment, there are potential risks and side effects that patients should be aware of. These may include reactions to anesthesia, bruising, or changes in skin sensation that could persist after healing. In rare cases, there may be injury to deeper structures such as nerves, blood vessels, muscles, or even internal organs.

Other possible complications include fluid buildup, infection, irregularities in skin contour or pigmentation, and delayed wound healing. Some patients may experience persistent swelling, skin rippling, or an exacerbation of cellulite. There is also a small risk of more serious concerns, such as deep vein thrombosis, cardiac or pulmonary issues, or heat-related injury, when ultrasound-assisted techniques are used. In some instances, a follow-up or revision procedure may be necessary to achieve the desired results.

If you experience any unusual or prolonged symptoms during your recovery, please contact our office immediately so we can ensure your healing is on track and address any issues promptly. Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities.
After fat removal from a Liposuction, you should not see weight gain in that area again, as long as you maintain your healthy weight and habits. Patients achieve incredible results with liposuction, and the fat cells removed can be used in fat transfer for other areas of the body, such as a Brazilian butt lift or Breast Augmentation.
Dr. Golger is regarded as one of the top liposuction surgeons. The surgery he provides is a body sculpting procedure; however, he recommends that patients maintain a healthy diet and a stable weight to achieve optimal results. Creating healthy habits can create a safer liposuction surgery and recovery process. If you're a few pounds overweight, that likely won't be an issue, but it will be discussed during the consultation.
For patients wanting to remove unwanted fat and transfer it to another area of the body, fat grafting is performed. Other cosmetic procedures that include fat are facial fat transfer, BBL, and certain breast augmentations. Dr. Golger specializes in facial fat transfer. During your consultation, you'll want to discuss with Dr. Golger if you're a good candidate for fat grafting or any other cosmetic procedures you're interested in.
When searching for the best liposuction plastic surgeon in Scottsdale, it's essential to start by verifying credentials. Choose a board-certified plastic surgeon, preferably one who is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Experience also plays a critical role, so look for a surgeon with a proven track record in liposuction and body-contouring procedures. Ensure the practice operates in accredited surgical centers or hospitals. For example, Dr. Golger holds privileges at top-tier local facilities, such as those affiliated with HonorHealth. Reviewing before-and-after photo galleries can help you assess the consistency and natural quality of a surgeon’s work. Additionally, patient testimonials offer valuable insights into the level of care and overall satisfaction. Finally, your consultation should be personal, informative, and leave you feeling confident—Dr. Golger is known for his warm, approachable demeanor and thoughtful, individualized approach to each patient's goals.

Genuine and Talented

I had an abdominoplasty done by Dr Golger here almost 2 years ago and realized I never left a review. Everyday Im so thankful for the confidence its given me. Dr Golger is one of the most professional, genuine and talented doctors Ive encountered.

Extremely Happy

My experience with Dr. Golger, and his team was a dream! From the consultation to the post-op follow up appointments, they treated me with genuine warmth and care. I am extremely happy with my results, and the healing process was absolutely seamless.

Wonderful Staff

Dr golger is an amazing surgeon he knows what he is doing I went to him for a breast reduction and I couldn’t be much happier. Both Cathy & Josie are amazing as well. Really happy i came across Dr. golger and his wonderful staff.

Highly Recommend

I highly recommend avenue plastic surgery. I just had a breast reduction and I am extremely pleased! Everyone in the office was amazing at answering any questions I have had over the phone as well . Dr Golger made me feel so comfortable .

Phenomenal Surgeon!

Dr. Golger is a phenomenal surgeon!! I can't recommend him enough. He flawlessly performed my breast reduction and lift in June 2022 then performed my breast reconstruction immediately after having my cancer prevention mastectomy done.

Very Ethical

Very ethical Dr he was kind patient and understanding. He took his time to explain the procedure. I decided to go back to my original Dr and Dr Golger refunded my deposit without any issues as promised. I highly recommend Dr Golger. Thanks to Valerie for her exceptional customer service

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Liposuction in Scottsdale