Minimally Invasive liposuction

Minimally invasive cosmetic surgery refers to surgical procedures created to improve the appearance of the face or body. These procedures are generally less invasive than traditional surgery and often involve smaller incisions, shorter recovery times and fewer complications. An example of minimally invasive cosmetic surgery is awake liposuction, or tumescent liposuction.

Awake liposuction is a technique that involves the use of local anaesthesia to numb the treatment area, rather than general anaesthesia, which puts the patient to sleep. This allows the patient to remain awake and alert during the procedure while reducing the risks associated with general anaesthesia.

Awake liposuction was developed in the 1980s by a dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Jeffrey Klein. Klein technique involved injecting a large volume of a dilute anaesthetic solution (known as a tumescent solution) into the treatment area, reducing bleeding, swelling and discomfort during the procedure.

Since its introduction, awake liposuction has become popular for patients seeking to reshape their figure and reduce body fat. The procedure involves using a thin, hollow tube called a cannula inserted through a small incision in the skin. The cannula is used to suction excess fat from the area to be treated, resulting in a slimmer, more shapely appearance.

Awake liposuction offers several advantages over traditional liposuction techniques. In addition to the use of local anaesthetic, awake liposuction also involves smaller incisions, resulting in less scarring and faster recovery time. The procedure is also less painful, with less risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, and numbness.

For more information about Minimally Invasive liposuction, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Jonathan Kanevsky at his Beverly Hills plastic surgery clinic. To book, call 310-773-4596.

Medically reviewed content

Reviewed by Dr. Jonathan Kanevsky

This educational article was reviewed by Dr. Jonathan Kanevsky, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills specializing in fat transfer procedures, body contouring, breast surgery, and recovery-focused aesthetic planning.

Last updated: May 2026

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Minimally Invasive liposuction