813.400.1465 phone icon
Slim woman sunbathing on the beach
Home | Body | Liposuction in Tampa, Clearwater & St. Petersburg, FL

Liposuction in Tampa, Clearwater & St. Petersburg, FL

Request A Consultation View Our Patient Gallery
Home | Body | Liposuction in Tampa, Clearwater & St. Petersburg, FL

Understanding Liposuction:
Permanent Fat Removal for Your Body Goals


Liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic surgical procedures in the United States, offering patients a way to permanently remove stubborn fat deposits that resist diet and exercise. If you’re considering liposuction in Tampa, Clearwater, or St. Petersburg, Florida, you deserve a board-certified plastic surgeon with the expertise to deliver natural-looking results tailored to your unique body contours.

Dr. Samuel Sohn, MD, is a fellowship-trained, board-certified plastic surgeon serving the Tampa Bay area with over 24 years of experience in advanced body contouring techniques. His approach combines surgical precision with artistic vision to help patients achieve the sculpted silhouette they’ve always wanted—without the appearance of having “work done.”

What Is Liposuction and How Does It Work?

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that permanently removes fat cells from specific areas of the body. Unlike non-surgical fat reduction treatments, liposuction actually eliminates fat cells rather than simply shrinking them. Fat cells removed during liposuction do not regenerate, making the results permanent as long as you maintain a stable weight. Trusetd Source Checkbox Trusted Source Cleveland Clinic Liposuction Go to Source 1

During the procedure, Dr. Sohn uses a thin, hollow tube called a cannula to gently suction out excess fat from targeted areas. The cannula is inserted through tiny incisions—typically ¼ to ½ inch in length—strategically placed in natural skin creases to minimize visible scarring. The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia, general anesthesia, or twilight sedation, depending on the extent of treatment and your comfort level.

How Liposuction Differs from Weight Loss Surgery

It’s important to understand that liposuction is not a weight loss procedure. Rather, it’s a body contouring treatment designed to remove localized fat deposits and reshape specific areas. Patients typically see the best results when they’re within 20-30 pounds of their ideal body weight and have good skin elasticity. The procedure works best for people with isolated pockets of stubborn fat that haven’t responded to diet and exercise.

Slim female body in black swimsuit Woman with slim sexy pulling back her hair

Body Areas That Can Be Treated with Liposuction

Liposuction can be performed on virtually any area of the body where stubborn fat deposits exist. Dr. Sohn commonly treats the following areas for patients in Tampa, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg:

  • Abdomen and Flanks: Remove excess fat from the midsection and love handles for a slimmer waistline
  • Thighs: Contour the inner thighs, outer thighs, and saddlebags for smoother leg lines
  • Arms: Eliminate bat wing or flabby arm appearance for more defined, toned-looking arms
  • Back and Bra Line: Reduce bulges under the bra line and along the back for a smoother silhouette
  • Chin and Neck: Remove submental fat (double chin) for a more defined jawline and neck contour
  • Knees and Calves: Refine the lower leg for better proportion and definition
  • Chest: Address gynecomastia (male breast tissue) or excess chest fat in men and women

Lipo 360: Complete Midsection Contouring

Many patients opt for “Lipo 360” (also called 360-degree liposuction), which treats the entire midsection—front, sides, and back—in one procedure. This comprehensive approach creates balanced, proportional results and is particularly popular among patients seeking dramatic body transformation.

Why Choose Dr. Samuel Sohn for Liposuction in Tampa Bay?

Board-Certified Expertise and Training

Dr. Samuel M. Sohn, MD is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). His credentials include:

Education & Training:

  • Medical Degree: Medical College of Virginia /Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
  • General Surgery Residency: Grand Rapids Medical/Michigan State University
  • Plastic Surgery Residency: Grand Rapids Medical/Michigan State University
  • Plastic Surgery Fellowship: New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mt. Sinai

Professional Credentials:

  • Board-Certified: American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)
  • Fellowship-Trained Plastic Surgeon
  • Active Member: American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
  • Hospital Affiliation: HCA Florida South Tampa Hospital

Experience:

With over 20 years of experience in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Sohn has performed thousands of body contouring procedures, giving him the refined technique and artistic eye necessary to deliver natural-looking results that enhance your proportions without appearing overdone.

Personalized Consultation and Treatment Planning

Every body is different, and Dr. Sohn believes in a personalized approach to liposuction. During your consultation, he’ll assess your body composition, skin quality, and aesthetic goals to determine whether liposuction alone is right for you—or whether combining it with other procedures like a tummy tuck or fat transfer might yield better results.

Dr. Sohn often says, “The goal of liposuction isn’t to create a perfect body—it’s to reveal the best version of your body by removing the fat that’s been hiding your natural contours.” This philosophy guides his approach to every procedure.

Natural-Looking Results

One of the hallmarks of Dr. Sohn’s work is his commitment to natural-looking results. Rather than creating an overly sculpted or “done” appearance, he focuses on subtle enhancement that makes you look like the best version of yourself—not like you’ve had surgery. This requires both technical skill and aesthetic restraint.

Comprehensive Patient Care

From your initial consultation through postoperative follow-up, Dr. Sohn’s team is committed to your comfort, safety, and satisfaction. The practice provides detailed preoperative instructions, clear postoperative care guidelines, and readily available support if you have questions during your recovery.

icon 5 stars

Patient Testimonials: Real Results from Real Patients

“I knew instantly that I wanted Dr Sohn to perform my surgery. after researching. He did my Mommy Makeover and I went back to do my liposuction. I really felt like he understood what outcome I was looking to achieve. His entire team was warm and friendly, I felt like they cared.” – Verified RealSelf Review  

“I have been going to Dr. Sohn for many years and he is very knowledgeable in the work that he does. He is so precise in his work and I love the results. I would highly recommend him to anyone. He is someone you can definitely trust.: – A.C., Google Review  

“Dr. Sohn performed my tummy tuck, lipo on lower and upper flanks, axila and double chin and I could not be happier not only with his stellar work but his bedside manners and really making me feel like a priority. He always made himself available and took his time to answer all of my questions and concerns. I would never go to another surgeon.” – Verified RealSelf Review

Hear from more of Dr. Sohn’s patients

The Liposuction Procedure: What to Expect

 

Before Your Procedure

 

During your consultation, Dr. Sohn will:

  • Review your medical history and current medications
  • Discuss your aesthetic goals and expectations
  • Examine the areas you wish to treat
  • Explain the procedure, risks, and recovery timeline
  • Answer all your questions to ensure you feel confident and informed

You’ll receive detailed preoperative instructions, which typically include:

  • Avoiding certain medications (like aspirin and NSAIDs) for 1-2 weeks before surgery
  • Stopping smoking at least 2 weeks prior to surgery to promote healing
  • Arranging for someone to drive you home after the procedure
  • Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing on the day of surgery

During Your Procedure

Liposuction typically takes 1-3 hours, depending on the number of areas treated and the volume of fat being removed. You’ll be given anesthesia (local, twilight, or general) to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Dr. Sohn will make small incisions in inconspicuous locations, insert the cannula, and carefully remove excess fat while sculpting the area to create smooth, natural contours.

After Your Procedure

Immediately following liposuction, you’ll wear a compression garment to help reduce swelling, minimize bruising, and support the skin as it redrapes over the newly contoured area. The compression garment is typically worn for 2-4 weeks, depending on the extent of treatment.

Recovery Timeline: Getting Back to Your Life

Understanding what to expect during recovery helps you plan accordingly and manage your expectations. Here’s a typical liposuction recovery timeline:

Week 1: Initial Recovery

  • Days 1-3: Rest and elevation are essential. You may experience soreness, swelling, and bruising, which is completely normal.
  • Days 4-7: Most patients can return to light activities like walking and desk work. Swelling begins to decrease, though it may still be significant.

Weeks 2-4: Progressive Activity

  • Most patients can return to normal work and light exercise (walking, gentle stretching) by week 2-3.
  • Swelling continues to improve, and you’ll begin to see initial results.
  • Continue wearing your compression garment as directed.

Weeks 4-8: Continued Improvement

  • You can gradually resume more strenuous exercise, including cardio and strength training.
  • Swelling continues to diminish, and results become increasingly apparent.
  • Most bruising has resolved by this point.

3-6 Months: Final Results

  • Final results typically become visible around 3-6 months as all swelling resolves and the skin fully redrapes.
  • The treated areas will feel softer and more natural as any residual firmness from the procedure subsides.

Important Note: Individual recovery varies based on the extent of liposuction, your age, skin quality, and overall health. Dr. Sohn will provide personalized recovery guidelines during your consultation.

Managing Postoperative Discomfort and Swelling

Compression Garments

Wearing your compression garment as directed is crucial for optimal results. It helps:

  • Reduce swelling and fluid accumulation
  • Minimize bruising
  • Support the skin as it redrapes
  • Improve comfort and mobility

Pain Management

Most patients experience mild to moderate soreness rather than severe pain. Dr. Sohn may prescribe pain medication for the first few days, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort as you heal. Many patients find that soreness improves significantly by day 3-5.

Swelling Reduction

Swelling is a normal part of healing and typically peaks around day 3-5 before gradually improving. To minimize swelling:

  • Keep the treated area elevated when resting
  • Apply ice packs during the first 48 hours (as directed)
  • Stay well-hydrated
  • Avoid salt and alcohol, which can increase fluid retention
  • Follow Dr. Sohn’s postoperative instructions carefully
Slim woman posing in swimsuit with palm tree background

Liposuction Results: What’s Permanent and What’s Not

What’s Permanent

The fat cells removed during liposuction are permanently eliminated. The body does not regenerate fat cells in the treated areas. This means your liposuction results are long-lasting.

What Requires Maintenance

While the fat cells are gone, the remaining fat cells in your body can still expand if you gain weight. To maintain your liposuction results:

  • Maintain a stable, healthy weight through balanced nutrition
  • Exercise regularly (at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week)
  • Make healthy lifestyle choices

Most patients who maintain their weight enjoy their liposuction results for many years.

Liposuction Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, liposuction carries some risks. However, serious complications are rare when the procedure is performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon in an accredited surgical facility.

Potential risks include:

  • Swelling and Bruising: Normal and temporary; resolves within weeks to months
  • Numbness or Tingling: Usually temporary; may persist for several months in some cases
  • Contour Irregularities: Rare; can sometimes be improved with additional treatment
  • Infection: Uncommon; prevented through sterile surgical technique and proper postoperative care
  • Fluid Accumulation (Seroma): Rare; may require drainage if it occurs
  • Blood Clots: Very rare; risk is minimized through proper surgical technique and postoperative activity Trusetd Source Checkbox Trusted Source What are the Risks of Liposuction American Society of Plastic Surgeons Go to Source 1

Dr. Sohn will discuss all potential risks during your consultation and explain how he minimizes complications through meticulous surgical technique and comprehensive postoperative care.

Curvy woman in comfortable underwear

Liposuction Candidacy: Are You a Good Candidate?

Ideal Candidates for Liposuction

You may be a good candidate for liposuction if you:

  • Are within 20-30 pounds of your ideal body weight
  • Have good skin elasticity (skin that will redrape smoothly after fat removal)
  • Have isolated pockets of stubborn fat that haven’t responded to diet and exercise
  • Are in good overall health with no serious medical conditions
  • Have realistic expectations about results
  • Are committed to maintaining your weight through healthy lifestyle choices
  • Are a non-smoker or willing to quit smoking before and after surgery Trusetd Source Checkbox Trusted Source Who is a Good Candidate for Liposuction American Society of Plastic Surgeons Go to Source 3

Who May Not Be a Good Candidate

Liposuction may not be appropriate if you:

  • Are significantly overweight (BMI >30); weight loss surgery may be more appropriate
  • Have poor skin elasticity; a tummy tuck or other skin-tightening procedure may be needed
  • Have active skin infections or conditions in the treatment area
  • Have certain medical conditions that increase surgical risk
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have unrealistic expectations about results

During your consultation, Dr. Sohn will honestly assess whether liposuction is right for you and discuss alternative options if needed.

Combining Liposuction with Other Procedures

Many patients achieve their best results by combining liposuction with complementary procedures. Popular combinations include:

Liposuction + Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

If you have excess skin in addition to excess fat, combining liposuction with a tummy tuck removes both the fat and the loose skin for a more dramatic transformation. This is particularly popular among patients who’ve experienced significant weight loss or pregnancy.

Liposuction + Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)

Fat removed from areas like the abdomen, flanks, and thighs can be purified and transferred to the buttocks to create a fuller, more shapely appearance with the BBL (Brazilian Butt Lift) technique. This combination procedure is increasingly popular among patients seeking comprehensive body contouring.

Liposuction + Breast Augmentation or Reduction

Many patients combine body contouring with breast augmentation or reduction to achieve overall body balance and proportion.

Liposuction + Facelift or Neck Lift

Removing submental fat (double chin) through liposuction can be combined with facial rejuvenation procedures such as facelift and neck lift for a more youthful, defined appearance.

During your consultation, Dr. Sohn will discuss whether combining procedures might help you achieve your aesthetic goals more effectively. Please note that the State of Florida has restrictions of liposuction aspiration volume with concurrent procedures. Call for an in person evaluation to see if you are a candidate for a combination procedure.

Liposuction Cost and Financing Options


Liposuction pricing varies based on several factors, including:

  • Number of areas treated
  • Volume of fat being removed
  • Complexity of the procedure
  • Anesthesia type
  • Surgical facility fees

We offer flexible financing options to make liposuction more accessible, including:

  • CareCredit, Alphaeon, and United Credit: Financing plans with flexible payment terms
  • Payment Plans: In-house payment options
  • Insurance: While liposuction is typically considered cosmetic and not covered by insurance, Dr. Sohn can discuss your specific situation

Shapely woman laying in the sand in swimsuit

Patient
Gallery

Patient
Gallery

View Our Patient Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions About Liposuction

Dr. Samuel Sohn offers liposuction and comprehensive body contouring at his practice in Tampa, serving patients throughout the Tampa Bay area including Clearwater and St. Petersburg. With over 20 years of experience and board certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Sohn combines surgical expertise with an artistic approach to deliver natural-looking results that enhance your unique body contours. His personalized consultation process ensures that your liposuction plan is tailored to your specific goals and anatomy.

Absolutely. Many patients achieve their best results by combining liposuction with complementary procedures such as:

  • Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty): Removes excess skin and fat for dramatic abdominal contouring
  • Brazilian butt lift (BBL): Transfers fat to the buttocks for enhanced shape and volume
  • Breast augmentation or reduction: Achieves overall body balance and proportion
  • Facelift or neck lift: Removes submental fat and addresses facial aging
  • Mommy makeover: Combines multiple body contouring procedures for comprehensive post-pregnancy transformation

Dr. Sohn will discuss combination options during your consultation to help you achieve your aesthetic goals most effectively.

Liposuction results are permanent because the fat cells removed during the procedure are permanently eliminated and do not regenerate. However, maintaining your results requires maintaining a stable weight through healthy diet and exercise. If you gain significant weight after liposuction, the remaining fat cells in your body can expand, which may affect your results. Most patients who maintain their weight enjoy their liposuction results for many years.

Liposuction surgically removes fat cells, while non-surgical treatments like CoolSculpting freeze fat cells or reduce their size without removing them. Liposuction typically produces more dramatic, immediate results and is better for larger areas of fat removal. Non-surgical treatments are less invasive but may require multiple sessions and produce more subtle results. During your consultation, Dr. Sohn can discuss which approach is best for your goals.

Liposuction is not a weight loss procedure. It’s a body contouring treatment designed to remove localized fat deposits and reshape specific areas. While you may lose a few pounds from the fat removed, liposuction is not intended as a weight management solution. Patients typically see the best results when they’re already at or near their ideal body weight and have good skin elasticity.

Liposuction incisions are very small—typically ¼ to ½ inch—and are strategically placed in natural skin creases or inconspicuous locations to minimize visible scarring. Most scars fade significantly over time and become barely noticeable. Dr. Sohn’s meticulous surgical technique and attention to incision placement help ensure minimal, well-hidden scarring.

Yes, liposuction is an excellent option for men seeking to remove stubborn fat deposits and achieve a more sculpted physique. Men commonly treat the abdomen, flanks, chest (to address gynecomastia), and chin. Dr. Sohn has extensive experience performing liposuction for male patients and understands the aesthetic goals specific to men’s body contouring.

Most patients can resume light activity like walking the next day after surgery. Light exercise can typically resume around week 1, and more strenuous exercise (cardio and strength training) can usually resume around week 3-4, depending on the extent of treatment and your individual healing. Dr. Sohn will provide personalized activity guidelines during your postoperative visits.

golden logo

Schedule Your Liposuction Consultation in Tampa Bay

If you’re ready to explore how liposuction can help you achieve your body contouring goals, Dr. Samuel Sohn invites you to schedule a personalized consultation. During this appointment, you’ll discuss your aesthetic goals, learn whether liposuction is right for you, and discover what natural-looking results might be possible for your unique body.

Contact Us
Terms

*By submitting this form you consent to receive phone calls, text messages and emails from Samuel Sohn, MD. It is not a condition of purchasing any goods or services. You can opt out at any time, message/data rates may apply, and opting-in includes acceptance of the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Communications through this website or via email are not encrypted and are not necessarily secure. Use of the internet or email is for your convenience only, and by using them, you assume the risk of unauthorized use.

1 Cleveland Clinic. Liposuction. Available: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11009-liposuction. Accessed October 30, 2025.
2 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. What are the risks of liposuction? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/liposuction/safety. Accessed October 30, 2025.
3 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Who is a good candidate for liposuction? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/liposuction/candidates. Accessed October 30, 2025.

Dr. Samuel Sohn has reviewed and approved this content.

Page Updated: