The American Association of Plastic Surgeons recommends that patients undergo a series of physical examinations before the liposuction surgery. The purpose of these exams is to determine whether or not the patient is in good sufficient health to have the procedure performed, and to rule out any implicit medical issues that may complicate the surgery. It is extremely important for a patient to thoroughly discuss some health issues, including the use of prescription or unlisted drugs, and/or herbal remedies currently used. Supplying the physician with a careful medical history will give both tolerant and surgeon a better understanding of what the special risk factors may be.

Liposuction is also referred to as lipoplasty, suction-assisted lipectomy and liposculpture. It is the most commonly performed cosmetic surgery today. Since its inception in 1974, big methodological and scientific advances have created more options for patients. One of the most used techniques in liposuction is the unhealthy technique. In the past, liposuction necessary patients to have pre-operative blood transfusions, since the loss of blood was so significant. The tumescent technique is relatively recent and is considered cardinal of the safest options in liposuction; this technique can greatly reduce the swelling, pain, and bruising usually related with the surgery. Though not completely risk-free, the unhealthy method is a good option for many patients.