Is High-BMI Liposuction Painful?

While some discomfort is expected after any surgical procedure, high-BMI liposuction is performed under anesthesia to ensure a painless experience. Following the procedure, patients may experience swelling, bruising, and soreness, with many describing the sensation as similar to intense muscle soreness rather than sharp pain. Dr. Rivera will provide detailed post-operative instructions to help minimize discomfort and support a comfortable recovery. Within a few days, most individuals feel well enough to resume light activities, with significant relief occurring as the healing process progresses.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

The process typically begins with an in-depth consultation to evaluate candidacy and develop an individualized operative plan. After the procedure, follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing, remove sutures if necessary, and ensure the best look. Most patients require at least two to three post-operative appointments, though additional visits may be recommended for enhanced care and long-term follow-up. Dr. Rivera remains available throughout the entire recovery process, offering expert guidance every step of the way.

How Long Until I See Results?

Patients often notice an improvement in body contours within a few weeks as swelling subsides, but the final results take time to appreciate fully. Most individuals experience a dramatic difference within 3 to 6 months as the body adjusts and residual swelling dissipates. Compression garments play a vital role in shaping the treated areas, which is why patients are advised to wear them consistently, as directed by Dr. Rivera. Since liposuction permanently removes fat cells, maintaining a stable weight through a balanced lifestyle helps preserve the outcome long-term.

Can I Combine High-BMI Liposuction With Other Procedures?

High-BMI Liposuction can be combined with other body contouring procedures and is commonly paired with a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) alternative to remove excess skin. Combination procedures can help achieve a more sculpted, proportionate look, particularly for individuals who have lost significant weight and are left with loose skin. However, the safety and feasibility of combining surgeries depend on factors such as overall health, surgical time, and recovery considerations.

What Are the Risks Associated With High-BMI Liposuction?

There are possible risks associated with this procedure, which are rare, including infection, fluid accumulation, contour irregularities, temporary numbness, and prolonged swelling. In even more rare cases, more serious complications, such as blood clots or delayed healing, may occur, especially in patients with underlying health conditions. Dr. Rivera takes extensive precautions, including pre-operative assessments and careful surgical techniques, to ensure a safe procedure. By following post-operative care instructions and attending all follow-up visits, patients can significantly reduce risks and achieve the best possible results.

Miami, Florida

High-BMI Liposuction

Name: Rivera Plastic Surgery
Brand: Rivera Plastic Surgery
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5.0 (22 reviews)

Introduction

Introduction to High-BMI Liposuction

Achieving your ideal body can feel like an uphill battle for individuals with a higher BMI. Despite your efforts, stubborn fat deposits may remain, making it frustrating to see the progress you’ve worked so hard for. At Rivera Plastic Surgery, we understand that your body transformation journey is personal, and you deserve a solution that is both effective and specific to your needs. High-BMI Liposuction is available for those who have felt overlooked or discouraged in their weight-loss journey, as it offers a safe and advanced approach to refining your shape.

Dr. Carlos Rivera, a leader in body contouring and liposuction for patients of all sizes, offers this unique approach to liposuction at his facility in Miami Beach–the home of premier plastic surgery.

Guaranteed Permanent Fat Elimination in a Single Session!

What is High-BMI Liposuction?

We offer liposuction for patients with high BMIs. A personalized consultation will determine your best options.

Liposuction is traditionally not performed on patients with a high Body Mass Index (BMI) (obesity). Although losing weight is ideal for most overweight and obese people and still the best recommendation, some patients have not been able to lose enough weight to lower their BMI with diet, exercise, or bariatric surgery, have not been able to do it despite their best efforts or are not interested in doing it at the moment.

The cutoff for most surgeons who do liposuction is a BMI of 32 due to increased risks of complications, such as anesthesia risks. Nevertheless, Dr. Rivera-Serrano and some other surgeons have found that doing these procedures under local anesthesia in patients with much higher BMIs is safe and possible, with much fewer risks, so long as the patient is otherwise healthy and does not have significant medical problems.

People with a BMI of 40-42 could be candidates for surgery. Nevertheless, patients interested in this procedure need to have realistic expectations and understand that surgery is not a replacement for weight loss and cannot make them lean or have flat abdomens. Liposuction in people with high BMIs is mainly carried out to decrease some sizes, similar to a debulking or volume reduction procedure. Since liposuction tends to create residual skin, some of this extra skin can be removed in some patients under local anesthesia.

The procedures are done under local anesthesia, so recovery is much quicker, and the risks are decreased.

A personal consultation will determine what is best for you.

- High BMI Liposuction in Miami Beach, FL

What Are the Benefits of High-BMI Liposuction?

High-BMI Liposuction in Miami offers benefits beyond fat removal, making it a great solution for those who have struggled with traditional weight-loss methods. One of the biggest advantages is the ability to achieve body contours that better align with your desired look because it creates a more proportional and balanced shape. Many patients even experience improved mobility and comfort, as reducing excess fat can alleviate strain on the body. The effects of this form of liposuction bring many patients a higher sense of self-confidence, with contours and curves that are flattering and natural.

Who Are the Best Candidates For High-BMI Liposuction?

Ideal candidates for High-BMI Liposuction are individuals with a higher body mass index who struggle with areas of fat that can’t be eliminated with exercise, diet, or other forms of weight-loss solutions. While there is no strict BMI cutoff, patients should have good overall health and realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve. This treatment is best suited for those who want to refine their shape rather than achieve dramatic weight loss, as liposuction is designed for contouring rather than mass reduction. During a consultation in Miami, Dr. Rivera evaluates each patient’s anatomy to determine if high-BMI liposuction is the right approach for them.

- Full Tech Liposuction in Miami Beach, FL

What is Full-Tech™ Liposuction?

Full-tech liposuction is a procedure that merges the most advanced fat removal and skin-tightening technologies into a single, highly effective treatment. Unlike traditional liposuction, Full-Tech Liposuction combines Vaser ultrasound-assisted liposuction, MicroAire® power-assisted liposuction (PAL®), and radiofrequency devices like RETRACTION® and Renuvion J-Plasma® to enhance skin contraction. This combination ensures precise fat removal while simultaneously improving skin elasticity for a smoother, more sculpted shape.

Our unique “Full Tech”™ liposuction or body contouring approach involves using most of the following technologies during the actual liposuction:

Vaser® ultrasound for fat separation
Microaire® Power Assisted Liposuction (PAL) for fat extraction
For skin tightening (one of he options below, depending on the case):
- Radiofrequency with Retraction® SmartLipo device
- Radiofrequency with Renuvion® J Plasma® device
- Radiofrequency with BodyTite® or QuantumRF® devices
- Laser SmartLipo device
Awake Liposuction (if the patient prefers it over general anesthesia)

What’s the first step?

The first step in undergoing high-BMI liposuction is scheduling a private consultation with Dr. Carlos Rivera at his Miami Beach practice. He will take the time to understand what you’re trying to achieve in comparison to your body composition and determine if this procedure is the best approach. Factors such as skin elasticity, fat distribution, and overall health are also carefully considered to ensure you are a good candidate. This is an opportunity to discuss your expectations, review before-and-after photos, and ask questions. If you decide to move forward, Dr. Rivera’s team will guide you through the necessary preoperative preparations to ensure a comfortable and successful experience.

What to Expect on the Day of High-BMI Liposuction Surgery

On the day of your procedure, you will arrive at Dr. Rivera’s boutique facility, where you will be prepped for surgery in a comfortable, private setting. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with light sedation, depending on the extent of fat removal and your surgical plan. Dr. Rivera will begin by making incisions in the targeted areas before a tumescent solution is then infused to numb the area, reduce bleeding, and facilitate fat removal. Dr. Rivera carefully breaks down and removes excess fat while sculpting a more defined silhouette using liposuction methods such as power-assisted or ultrasound-assisted liposuction. Once the procedure is complete, the incisions are closed, and a compression garment is placed before you can return home the same day.

High-BMI Liposuction Recovery

Recovery from high-BMI liposuction varies depending on the extent of the procedure, but most patients can expect initial swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort in the treated areas. Dr. Rivera will give you recovery protocols, including pain management strategies and post-surgical compression garments to reduce swelling and support your new figure. While light movement is encouraged soon after surgery to promote circulation, strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks. Most patients can resume non-strenuous work within a week, with swelling gradually subsiding over the following months. Final results typically become visible within 3 to 5 months as the body adjusts to its new shape.

How Much Does High-BMI Liposuction Cost in Miami, FL?

The cost of high-BMI liposuction in Miami Beach ranges, on average, from $3,000 to $15,000. However, for patients with a higher BMI, the complexity and duration of the surgery may increase, potentially leading to higher costs. It’s essential to consult with Dr. Rivera to receive a personalized assessment and an accurate quote tailored to your specific situation, along with potential financing options. Remember that investing in a skilled and experienced surgeon ensures optimal results and prioritizes your safety and well-being throughout the process.

Why Choose Dr. Rivera? What Sets Us Apart?

We are specialists and have the know-how. Dr. Rivera-Serrano is among the country’s most highly trained plastic surgeons, having completed two separate residencies (plastic surgery & head & neck surgery / ENT) and two clinical fellowships in some of the most prestigious institutions in North America, Asia & Europe. He is double board-certified by accredited bodies recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties and the Florida Board of Medicine, and he has vast surgical experience, having performed thousands of successful surgical cases. Dr. Rivera-Serrano has been a University Professor of Surgery, teaching residents how to perform plastic surgery, and knows the intricacies of the field. He is a respected Miami plastic surgery community member, an innovator, and the author of numerous articles in leading peer-reviewed journals and textbooks. Always aiming for natural results, he knows how to combine artistry with safety. All the above sets him apart as a top surgeon with one of the most comprehensive plastic surgery offerings throughout Miami, South Florida, and Colombia.

High-BMI Liposuction FAQ’S

While some discomfort is expected after any surgical procedure, high-BMI liposuction is performed under anesthesia to ensure a painless experience. Following the procedure, patients may experience swelling, bruising, and soreness, with many describing the sensation as similar to intense muscle soreness rather than sharp pain. Dr. Rivera will provide detailed post-operative instructions to help minimize discomfort and support a comfortable recovery. Within a few days, most individuals feel well enough to resume light activities, with significant relief occurring as the healing process progresses.
The process typically begins with an in-depth consultation to evaluate candidacy and develop an individualized operative plan. After the procedure, follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing, remove sutures if necessary, and ensure the best look. Most patients require at least two to three post-operative appointments, though additional visits may be recommended for enhanced care and long-term follow-up. Dr. Rivera remains available throughout the entire recovery process, offering expert guidance every step of the way.
Patients often notice an improvement in body contours within a few weeks as swelling subsides, but the final results take time to appreciate fully. Most individuals experience a dramatic difference within 3 to 6 months as the body adjusts and residual swelling dissipates. Compression garments play a vital role in shaping the treated areas, which is why patients are advised to wear them consistently, as directed by Dr. Rivera. Since liposuction permanently removes fat cells, maintaining a stable weight through a balanced lifestyle helps preserve the outcome long-term.
High-BMI Liposuction can be combined with other body contouring procedures and is commonly paired with a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) alternative to remove excess skin. Combination procedures can help achieve a more sculpted, proportionate look, particularly for individuals who have lost significant weight and are left with loose skin. However, the safety and feasibility of combining surgeries depend on factors such as overall health, surgical time, and recovery considerations.
There are possible risks associated with this procedure, which are rare, including infection, fluid accumulation, contour irregularities, temporary numbness, and prolonged swelling. In even more rare cases, more serious complications, such as blood clots or delayed healing, may occur, especially in patients with underlying health conditions. Dr. Rivera takes extensive precautions, including pre-operative assessments and careful surgical techniques, to ensure a safe procedure. By following post-operative care instructions and attending all follow-up visits, patients can significantly reduce risks and achieve the best possible results.

Patient Reviews

4.79 – 103 Reviews

Dr Rivera is an excellent surgeon

Dr Rivera is an excellent surgeon. Very professional and great chair side manner. I was extremely pleased with my experience and procedures and I will recommend Dr Rivera Always!!!!

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J.P., Google
I cannot recommend Dr. Rivera enough

I cannot recommend Dr. Rivera enough. I had such a good experience at his practice and I appreciate how kind and knowledgeable he was.

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L.B., Google
as soon I meet Dr Rivera I knew he was the best

I had a great experience. I visited 4 surgeons between Miami and Ft Lauderdale; some very senior and well known, but as soon I meet Dr Rivera I knew he was the best. Dr Rivera listened, was patient and gave me several options for treatment. He is exceptionally talented and trained, ans has great manners. I was impressed with his resume, superior to pretty much any plastic surgeon I’ve meet. The procedure went very well. I obtained the results I wanted. His staff is top notch. Absolute recommendations. He is a Rockstar!

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Anonymous, RealSelf

Schedule a Consultation

Embarking on your body transformation journey begins with a personalized consultation at Rivera Plastic Surgery. To schedule your consultation, please contact our Miami Beach office at (305) 792-8244, info@riveraplasticsurgery.com, or fill out the online appointment request form on our website.