July 07, 2025 | Liposuction
6 minute read
If you’re thinking about getting liposuction, it’s totally normal to have a lot of questions running through your mind as you research the procedure. One of the most common concerns is what type of anesthesia is used—will you be awake or completely under? For many people, the idea of being conscious during surgery feels unsettling, while others are curious if staying awake means an easier, safer, or more affordable experience. The reality is that, just like liposuction surgery itself, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. In this blog, we’ll explore your anesthesia options for liposuction, as well as other questions you might have about what happens when you undergo liposuction surgery.
Table of Contents
- What Is Liposuction?
- Can You Be Awake During Liposuction?
- Anesthesia Options at Bonaldi Aesthetics
- Why Would Someone Choose to Stay Awake During Liposuction?
- Does Being Awake Mean Liposuction Will Hurt?
- Who Is a Good Candidate for Awake Liposuction?
- How Do You Choose the Right Type of Liposuction Anesthesia?
- Explore Liposuction Options in Reno
What Is Liposuction?
Liposuction is a body contouring procedure designed to surgically remove stubborn fat pockets that don’t respond to diet or exercise. It’s performed by using a thin tube called a cannula to suction out excess fat deposits from nearly anywhere on your body, from under your chin all the way to your ankles. While it’s not a weight loss solution, liposuction is a highly effective tool used to sculpt and put the finishing touches on your silhouette. Benefits include more defined contours, better body proportions, and a boost in confidence—especially when you’ve tried everything else and still can’t get the results you want.
The level of anesthesia used during liposuction can vary based on the type of procedure, the area being treated, and your surgeon’s preferences.
Can You Be Awake During Liposuction?
Yes! Unlike many cosmetic surgeries, not all liposuction procedures require general anesthesia (being completely unconscious). In many cases, patients are awake or semi-awake during liposuction, depending on the type of anesthesia used. In fact, there are a few anesthesia options available, and Dr. Bonaldi will choose one based on your comfort level, medical history, and the complexity of your procedure.
Anesthesia Options at Bonaldi Aesthetics
Dr. Bonaldi performs liposuction in his AAAHC-accredited surgical suite, utilizing modern techniques like ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL) or laser-assisted liposuction (LAL) combined with appropriate numbing methods to prioritize your comfort.
Local or Tumescent Anesthesia
No matter what method Dr. Bonaldi uses for your liposuction procedure, tumescent fluid is injected into the targeted treatment area. Tumescent fluid is a numbing solution (usually lidocaine mixed with epinephrine and saline) administered into the fat layer. This not only numbs the area but also minimizes bleeding and makes fat easier to remove. Many patients remain awake during tumescent liposuction and report only mild discomfort or pressure. You may also be given a sedative to help you stay calm.
IV Sedation or General Anesthesia
For more extensive procedures—such as treating multiple areas or removing large volumes of fat—IV sedation or general anesthesia may be recommended. These options allow for deeper relaxation or full sleep and are administered to ensure your safety and comfort during liposuction.
Why Would Someone Choose to Stay Awake During Liposuction?
Being awake during liposuction has some advantages. It typically allows for a faster recovery and lower risk of side effects related to general anesthesia, such as nausea or grogginess. It may also reduce the overall cost of your surgery, since local anesthesia is less expensive than general anesthesia and doesn’t require a certified anesthesiologist.
Awake procedures may also yield better results. In some cases, Dr. Bonaldi may ask you to shift positions or flex a muscle to help him contour the area more precisely. This can lead to more refined results.
Does Being Awake Mean Liposuction Will Hurt?
Not at all. If you’re under local anesthetic with sedation, the area being treated will be completely numb. You might feel mild sensations of tugging, vibration, or pressure, but you should not feel any pain. Dr. Bonaldi will test the area before beginning the procedure to make sure you’re comfortable. If at any point you feel discomfort, he can pause and top up the anesthesia as needed.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Awake Liposuction?
Ideal candidates for awake liposuction are healthy individuals with a small to moderate amount of fat to be removed. If you’re targeting just one or two areas and don’t require major reshaping, local anesthesia is likely all you’ll need. For a larger volume of fat removal, combining liposuction with skin‑tightening procedures (such as a tummy tuck or thigh lift) may be recommended—an approach Dr. Bonaldi often uses to optimize your results.
How Do You Choose the Right Type of Liposuction Anesthesia?
The key to selecting the right anesthesia option for you is working with a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Bonaldi, who has experience in all types of liposuction, including awake procedures. During your consultation, don’t hesitate to ask:
- What kind of anesthesia he recommends for your goals
- How much fat can be removed during your procedure
- What the recovery process will be like
- Whether you’ll be awake, sedated, or asleep—and what to expect from each option
Every patient is different, so what works for someone else might not be best for you. At Bonaldi Aesthetics, your comfort and safety are always our top priority, as well as providing you with the stunning results you desire.
Explore Liposuction Options in Reno, NV
The idea of being awake during liposuction may seem strange at first, but it’s actually a safe and effective approach for many people. If you’re curious about which method of anesthesia during liposuction is right for your body and goals, it’s time to schedule a consultation with Dr. Louis Bonaldi. Dr. Bonaldi is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Reno, NV with extensive experience performing liposuction and other body-contoring procedures..
To make an appointment, call our office today at (775) 828-7400 or complete our online contact form.
