A Liposuction Procedure in Virginia Beach is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for a reason—it’s a highly effective way to remove stubborn fat and contour areas of the body that don’t respond well to diet and exercise. While it’s not a replacement for weight loss or a healthy lifestyle, this procedure can be a game-changer for patients struggling with localized fat deposits.
Before scheduling your consultation, it’s important to understand how the liposuction procedure works, who it’s best suited for, and what results you can realistically expect.

How Does A Liposuction Procedure in Virginia Beach Work?
Liposuction is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to remove fat from specific areas of the body. Common treatment areas include the abdomen, thighs, hips, arms, back, and even the chin or neck. At Galardi | Bowen Plastic Surgery, we perform the liposuction procedure in Virginia Beach using small incisions—typically less than one inch long. A solution is first injected into the treatment area to minimize bleeding and discomfort. Then, a narrow tube called a cannula is inserted to loosen and suction out the fat.
The entire process is relatively quick, depending on the number of areas being treated. Most patients are able to return to light daily activities within a week. However, full recovery can take several weeks, and you’ll need to wear compression garments to help your body heal and contour properly.
Who Makes a Good Candidate?
Fat removal surgery in Hampton Roads isn’t for everyone. The best candidates are those who are at or near their ideal body weight but have localized pockets of fat that are resistant to lifestyle changes. These are often hereditary or hormonally influenced fat deposits that don’t go away, no matter how much you work out or eat clean.
To be considered a good candidate, you should:
- Be in generally good health
- Not smoke, as this can affect healing
- Have realistic expectations about the outcome
- Have firm, elastic skin and good muscle tone
If your skin is significantly loose or sagging—especially after major weight loss—this cosmetic surgery might not be the best option. In such cases, procedures that tighten or remove excess skin may be more appropriate.
What A Liposuction Procedure in Virginia Beach Can and Cannot Do
One of the biggest misconceptions about liposuction is that it’s a way to lose a lot of weight. In reality, liposuction is designed for body contouring, not weight reduction. The amount of fat removed during the procedure typically ranges from one to ten pounds, depending on the area and individual needs.
While it can significantly improve your body shape, it will not:
- Help you lose a significant amount of weight
- Prevent future weight gain
- Replace the need for healthy habits
Removing large volumes of fat can increase the risk of complications such as contour irregularities and skin rippling, so it’s important to have a detailed conversation with your surgeon about what’s safe and realistic.

Does Liposuction Help with Cellulite?
There’s often confusion around cellulite and whether liposuction can treat it. The answer depends on the type of cellulite:
- Primary cellulite is caused by excess fat beneath the skin and can sometimes improve after liposuction.
- Secondary cellulite is typically related to loose or aging skin, and may actually appear more noticeable if liposuction is performed without additional skin-tightening treatments.
The Health Perks You Might Not Expect
While liposuction is largely cosmetic, some studies—including those cited by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)—suggest that it may also offer health benefits, such as improved metabolic health or reduced risk factors for heart disease. However, these benefits should be viewed as secondary—not a primary reason for undergoing the procedure.
Is Liposuction Right for You?
If you’re considering liposuction, the first step is a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. At Galardi | Bowen Plastic Surgery, we’ll assess your goals, body type, and medical history to determine whether liposuction is the right solution for you—or if another approach would provide better results.
Book a consultation today and take the first step toward a more confident, sculpted you.
Liposuction in Virginia Beach is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for a reason—it’s a highly effective way to remove stubborn fat. At Galardi | Bowen Plastic Surgery, our Virginia Beach liposuction specialists use advanced techniques for safe, natural-looking results.
…Book a consultation today and take the first step toward a more confident, sculpted you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Liposuction Procedure in Virginia Beach
How much fat can safely be removed with liposuction?
Most patients have between one and ten pounds of fat removed depending on the area treated, but the goal is contouring—not weight loss. Your surgeon will determine what’s safe based on your health and body type.
Does liposuction get rid of cellulite?
Liposuction can smooth areas with mild fat-related cellulite, but it doesn’t correct loose skin or the deeper structures that cause dimpling. Combining liposuction with skin-tightening treatments can enhance results.
What is recovery like after liposuction?
Most patients return to light activity within about a week. Swelling and mild soreness may last several weeks, and compression garments help the body heal and contour properly.
Who performs liposuction at Galardi | Bowen Plastic Surgery?
All liposuction procedures are performed by board-certified plastic surgeons, including Dr. Nicholas R. Galardi, MD, Medical Director at GBR Plastic Surgery in Virginia Beach.