What is the difference between Lipo360 and a tummy tuck?

Lipo360 is a liposuction procedure that specifically targets fat deposits in multiple areas of the midsection, including the abdomen, waist, back, and surrounding regions, to create a more contoured and proportional silhouette. In contrast, a tummy tuck , or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that focuses on removing excess skin and fat from the abdominal area while also repairing and tightening the underlying abdominal muscles. While Lipo360 primarily addresses fat reduction, a tummy tuck is better suited for patients with loose, sagging skin and muscle weakness or separation, often resulting from significant weight loss or pregnancy. A personalized consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Smith can help determine which procedure or combination of procedures will best address your unique concerns and goals.

Does Lipo360 remove as much fat as traditional liposuction?

Lipo360 is not a specific type of liposuction but rather a term used to describe a comprehensive approach to liposuction that targets multiple areas of the midsection. The amount of fat removed during a Lipo360 procedure can be equivalent to that removed during traditional liposuction, as the surgeon can customize the treatment to achieve the desired level of fat reduction in each targeted area. Various liposuction techniques and technologies, such as tumescent liposuction, VASER, and BodyTite, can be employed during a Lipo360 procedure to enhance results and optimize the overall outcome.

What areas of the body can be treated with Lipo360?

While the term “Lipo360” specifically refers to the treatment of the midsection, including the abdomen, waist, and back, many plastic surgeons can combine this approach with liposuction in other areas of the body to achieve a more comprehensive transformation. During your consultation, discuss your concerns and goals regarding fat reduction in regions such as the arms, thighs, knees, or chin, and your surgeon can develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses all of your desired areas in a single, efficient procedure.

Is Lipo360 less invasive than a tummy tuck?

Yes, Lipo360 is generally considered less invasive than a full tummy tuck, as it involves smaller incisions and typically requires a shorter recovery period. While both procedures are usually performed under some form of anesthesia, Lipo360 patients often experience less discomfort and are able to return to normal activities more quickly compared to those undergoing a tummy tuck. However, it’s essential to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine which procedure or combination of techniques will best suit your individual needs and goals, as the right approach may vary depending on your unique anatomy and desired outcome.

How long do Lipo360 results last?

The fat cells removed during a Lipo360 procedure are permanently eliminated from the body, making the results of the treatment long-lasting. However, it’s crucial for patients to maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle following their procedure to ensure the best possible long-term outcome. While the removed fat cells will not return, the remaining fat cells in the treated areas can still expand if the patient gains a significant amount of weight in the future. Additionally, factors such as aging, hormonal changes, and pregnancy can impact the results over time. By adopting a balanced diet, regular exercise routine, and good self-care habits, patients can help to preserve their newly sculpted contours for many years to come.

A woman in a black bikini laying on a black background.

Lipo 360: Sculpt Your Dream Body with NYC’s Top Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Darren M Smith

4.9 from 150+ reviews

Before & After: Lipo 360

1/2

Explore our gallery of real patient results. These before-and-after photos reflect the life-changing outcomes of plastic surgery performed by Dr. Smith.

Visit Gallery

“I feel more like myself again. The results were so natural, and the process was so smooth! Dr. Smith truly understands what makes you feel confident.”

— S G

What is Lipo 360?

Lipo360 is a comprehensive liposuction procedure that targets multiple areas on the front, back and sides of your midsection, providing a full 360-degree approach to body contouring. The term “Lipo360” refers to the fact that the treatment involves performing liposuction around the entire circumference of your torso, addressing fat deposits from every angle for optimal sculpting results.

The areas that are frequently included in a Lipo360 treatment planare the stomach, the waist (also sometimes called the flanks or “love handles”), the upper back, the lower back, and the stubborn fat that often accumulatesunder the arms and may hang over a bathing suit or a bra strap.

Why “Lipo 360” Can Be Confusing

Clear communication is very important for good results in plastic surgery. When the doctor knows what the patient wants, they can help the patient achieve their goals most effectively.

However, the term “Lipo360” can sometimes lead to confusion and misunderstandings between patients and their surgeons. Because it is a catch-all term that encompasses many different body areas, it can oversimplify the conversation and lead to vague or unclear communication about the specific concerns and desired outcomes for each individual.

Rather than relying solely on a general term like “Lipo360” during the consultation and planning process, Dr. Smith believes in taking a more personalized and thorough approach. He carefully assesses each area of the body that may be included in the procedure, creating a customized treatment plan that addresses the unique needs and goals of each patient.

Starting with the abdomen, Dr. Smith evaluates the amount of excess fat present and determines whether any additional procedures for skin tightening may be necessary to achieve an optimal outcome. He then moves on to the next potential treatment area, such as the waist, and develops a tailored surgical plan for that specific region. This meticulous, step-by-step process is repeated for every part of the torso that may be included in the procedure, always considering how each area relates to the others in order to create a proportional and harmonious final result.

The problem with using a generalized term like “Lipo360” is that it can lead to a treatment plan that is not adequately customized to meet the specific needs and desired outcomes of the individual patient.

A lack of clear and detailed communication can occur, potentially compromising the success of the procedure. To illustrate the distinct areas that a Lipo360 procedure could involve, see the following diagram: the stomach (marked in yellow), the waist (blue), the area around the armpits or “axillae” (red), and the back (green).

How does Lipo 360 work?

Your Lipo360 journey begins with an in-depth consultation with Dr. Smith. During this meeting, you will have the opportunity to discuss your concerns, ask questions, and work with Dr. Smith to develop a fully customized treatment plan that outlines the specific areas to be addressed with liposuction. Advanced 3D imaging technology may be utilized to help you visualize your potential results and make informed decisions about your procedure.

To ensure clear documentation of your starting point, a series of preoperative photographs will be taken. This important step takes place in one of our private, well-appointed examination rooms, designed with your comfort and privacy in mind.

On the day of your Lipo360 procedure, you will be welcomed into our state-of-the-art operating suite, which is fully accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF) at the highest level for safety and quality. Our attentive staff will ensure that you are comfortable and well-cared for as you prepare for your surgery.

Once you are settled onto our specialized, heated operating table, the anesthesia process will begin. For more extensive liposuction procedures like Lipo360, which involve treating multiple areas, Dr. Smith typically recommends either intravenous (IV) sedation or general anesthesia rather than local anesthesia. These options provide a greater level of comfort and relaxation throughout the surgery. To ensure the highest standards of safety and care, Dr. Smith works exclusively with board-certified anesthesiologists to administer the anesthesia.

IV sedation, often referred to as “twilight anesthesia” or “conscious sedation,” is similar to the type of anesthesia used during a colonoscopy. With this approach, you will drift in and out of a sleep-like state, remaining comfortable and relaxed while still breathing on your own. Alternatively, if you prefer to be completely unconscious during the procedure, general anesthesia can be administered, allowing you to sleep deeply while a breathing tube assists with ventilation.

Once you are adequately anesthetized, Dr. Smith will begin the Lipo360 procedure by making very small, carefully concealed incisions in the treatment areas. These incisions, each measuring less than the size of a pen cap, serve as access points for the infiltration of the tumescent anesthetic solution, which helps to numb the tissues, minimize bleeding, and facilitate the fat removal process.

After allowing time for the tumescent solution to take effect, Dr. Smith will perform any necessary skin or deep tissue tightening procedures, such as BodyTite or VASER, based on your individual needs and goals. These advanced technologies can help to enhance the contours and ensure optimal skin retraction for a smoother, more toned final result.

With the tissues prepared, Dr. Smith will then use thin, specially designed instruments called cannulas to gently suction out the unwanted fat cells from each targeted area. Throughout the procedure, you may be carefully repositioned to allow access to all of the planned treatment regions, ensuring a thorough and comprehensive approach to your Lipo360 transformation.

As the procedure concludes, Dr. Smith will meticulously close the incisions and apply a supportive compression garment to help minimize swelling, promote optimal healing, and maintain your new, sculpted contours. A series of “before and after” photos will be taken to document your initial results, which will continue to improve over the coming weeks and months as your body recovers.

What is Lipo 360 + BBL?

For patients seeking a more dramatic transformation, Lipo360 can be combined with a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedure to enhance the contours of the buttocks in addition to the circumferential sculpting of the torso. During a Lipo360 + BBL procedure, the excess fat removed from the targeted areas of the midsection is carefully purified and strategically injected into the buttocks to add volume, improve shape, and create a more lifted, rounded appearance.

The fat transfer process involved in a BBL is performed using thin cannulas, similar to those used for liposuction, which are inserted through very small incisions in the buttocks. Dr. Smith’s meticulous technique allows for precise control over the placement and distribution of the transferred fat, ensuring a smooth, natural-looking result that enhances your individual proportions and achieves your desired aesthetic.

The combination of Lipo360 and a Brazilian Butt Lift is a powerful approach to total body transformation, offering dramatic improvements in both the contours of the midsection and the shape and projection of the buttocks. By addressing multiple areas in a single procedure, patients can achieve their ideal figure with a more comprehensive, harmonious outcome.

Who is an ideal candidate for Lipo 360?

The best candidates for Lipo360 are individuals who are in good overall health, do not smoke, and are at or near their target body weight. Ideal patients should have good skin elasticity and minimal skin laxity to ensure optimal results and smoother contours following the procedure.

In addition to these physical characteristics, it is important for prospective Lipo360 patients to have realistic expectations and a positive outlook on the recovery process. A commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise routine, is essential for enjoying long-lasting results and making the most of your investment in yourself.

As one of Manhattan’s premier Lipo 360 surgeons, Dr. Darren Smith is renowned for his exceptional skill, artistic eye, and dedication to achieving naturally beautiful, long-lasting results. Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Smith has completed advanced training in aesthetic surgery at the prestigious Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital, as well as a fellowship in craniofacial surgery at the world-renowned Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto.

With over 15 years of experience in the field of cosmetic surgery, Dr. Smith has honed his craft and developed a keen understanding of the intricacies of body contouring procedures. He has performed countless successful Lipo360 treatments, consistently delivering outstanding outcomes for his patients.

What sets Dr. Smith apart is his unique combination of technical expertise, artistic vision, and compassionate patient care. He approaches each case with a meticulous attention to detail, taking the time to understand the individual needs, desires, and anatomical characteristics of each patient. By tailoring his surgical plan to the specific goals and proportions of the individual, Dr. Smith is able to create results that are not only beautiful but also harmonious and natural-looking.

Dr. Smith’s philosophy is centered on providing personalized, holistic care that considers the whole patient, not just the targeted areas of concern. His warm, empathetic bedside manner helps to put patients at ease, fostering a sense of trust and collaboration throughout the entire treatment process.

Real Patient Testimonials

“I Should Never Consider Another Plastic Surgeon!”

My experience with Dr. Darren Smith and his staff made it obvious that I should never consider another plastic surgeon! I had several consultations with other cosmetic surgeons for a breast lift procedure before making the indisputable choice to go with Dr. Darren Smith.

— S K

Dr. Smith and his staff are absolutely incredible.

Dr. Smith and his staff are absolutely incredible. They made me feel welcome, comfortable, and listened to from the moment I first arrived for a consultation, all the way to my surgery and afterwards. The care I received from Dr. Smith, Annalise, and Julia was exemplary. I am thrilled with the results of my procedure, and sincerely can’t recommend them highly enough.

— E K

Wonderfully helpful, professional, and caring

Dr. Smith and his entire staff are wonderfully helpful, professional, and caring. From scheduling the appointments and covering billing with his admin (Fotini), to pre- and post-op follow-ups from his head nurse (Casey), to the procedure with Dr. Smith himself, I cannot think of a single thing that could have been done differently to improve my experience here. You can really tell that everyone is invested in making your experience the best it can possibly be. I would highly recommend Dr. Smith to anyone in the area.

— N P

Benefits of Lipo360

Lipo360 offers a comprehensive approach to body contouring, allowing for significant improvements in the shape and proportions of the entire torso. By targeting multiple areas, including the stomach, waist, back, and underarms, Lipo360 provides a powerful, customizable solution for addressing stubborn fat deposits and achieving a more sculpted, harmonious silhouette.

Benefit	Description
360-degree fat reduction	Eliminates unwanted fat from multiple areas of the torso, including the abdomen, flanks, back, and underarms, for a comprehensive improvement in body contours
Improved proportions and shape	Helps to achieve a more balanced, hourglass-like figure by strategically reducing fat in problem areas and creating a smoother, more streamlined silhouette
Permanent fat cell removal	Physically removes stubborn fat cells that are resistant to diet and exercise, providing long-lasting results and a more sculpted appearance
Minimal scarring	Liposuction incisions are very small, typically measuring just a few millimeters in length, resulting in scars that are barely noticeable once healed
Relatively quick recovery	Most patients are able to return to their normal daily activities within 1-2 weeks following a Lipo360 procedure, with full recovery achieved in 4-6 weeks
Enduring results	Because the fat cells removed during Lipo360 are permanently eliminated, the results of the procedure can be long-lasting with proper maintenance of a stable weight through a healthy lifestyle
Combination with other procedures	The fat harvested during a Lipo360 procedure can be purified and used for fat grafting in other areas, such as the buttocks (Brazilian Butt Lift) or breasts (Natural Breast Augmentation), allowing for a more comprehensive body transformation

How much does Lipo 360 cost?

The cost of a Lipo360 procedure can vary significantly based on a number of factors, and it’s important for patients to understand that the term “Lipo360” alone does not provide a clear indication of the specific areas that will be treated or the extent of the surgery, which can make it challenging to provide an accurate price estimate without a personalized consultation.

In New York City, the experience and reputation of the surgeon, as well as the geographic location of the practice, can greatly influence the overall cost of a Lipo360 procedure. Additional factors that contribute to the final price include the qualifications of the support staff, the accreditation and amenities of the surgical facility, and the use of advanced technology or specialized equipment.

On average, patients can expect to pay between $10,000 and $15,000 for a Lipo360 procedure performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon in a fully accredited surgical facility in NYC. While it may be possible to find lower-cost options, it’s crucial to be cautious of prices that seem too good to be true, as they may indicate compromises in terms of safety, quality of care, or surgeon expertise.

Choosing a Lipo360 provider based solely on cost can be risky, as it may increase the likelihood of complications, unsatisfactory results, or the need for revisional procedures in the future. In many cases, opting for a lower-cost option initially can end up being more expensive in the long run, once the costs of additional treatments or corrective surgeries are taken into account.

Lipo 360 Cost Breakdown

PROCEDURE	PURPOSE	LOW	AVERAGE	HIGH
Lipo360	Contour the midsection, including the abdomen, waist, and upper and lower back regions, by removing excess fat deposits	$12000	$15000	$19000
Lipo360 + VASER	In addition to contouring, VASER technology is used to liquefy stubborn fat and tighten deep tissues for enhanced results	$19000	$21000	$23000
Lipo360 + BodyTite	Along with fat removal, BodyTite radiofrequency technology is employed to tighten loose or sagging skin for a smoother outcome	$19000	$21000	$23000
Lipo360 + VASER + BodyTite	A combination of contouring, VASER fat liquefaction, deep tissue tightening, and skin tightening for the most comprehensive results	$22000	$24000	$26000

This table provides a general price range for various Lipo360 techniques in the New York City area, based on data from multiple high-end plastic surgery practices.

It’s important to note that these figures are averages and that individual quotes may vary depending on the specific areas treated, the amount of fat removed, and other patient-specific factors.

Additionally, these estimates do not include costs for the surgical facility or anesthesia, which can add several thousand dollars to the total price.

Lipo 360 Recovery

In our NYC plastic surgery practice, patients typically experience an active recovery period of approximately 48 hours following a Lipo360 procedure. Many of our patients who work in professional settings choose to schedule their surgery on a Friday, allowing them sufficient time to recover over the weekend and return to work the following Monday feeling well and ready to resume their normal activities.

During the recovery process, patients can expect to feel some degree of soreness, similar to the sensation experienced after a strenuous workout. However, significant pain is uncommon, and most patients find the discomfort to be very manageable with prescribed medication and rest.

Immediately following the Lipo360 procedure, patients are encouraged to stand up and walk around, as this gentle movement helps to promote circulation and prevent complications. Light walking is recommended in the days following surgery, and patients can generally resume mild workouts approximately 4-5 days after their procedure.

Dr. Smith typically advises patients to wait about 2 weeks before returning to their full exercise routines, allowing ample time for the body to heal and adjust to its new contours. While some early improvements are visible within a few weeks, the final results of a Lipo360 procedure continue to develop over several months as the body recovers and settles into its new shape.

Post-op care tips

To help ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results following a Lipo360 procedure, Dr. Smith provides his NYC patients with personalized post-operative care instructions. While each patient’s recovery journey is unique and may require specific guidance based on their individual needs and treatment plan, there are several general tips that can benefit most Lipo360 patients:

Begin walking and engaging in light movement as soon as possible after the procedure to encourage circulation and reduce the risk of complications
Take frequent, short walks in the days following surgery, gradually increasing the duration and intensity as your comfort level improves
Wear your compression garment as directed by Dr. Smith, typically for a period ranging from 48 hours to 1 month, depending on the extent of your procedure and your individual healing process
Minimize your intake of salt and alcohol in the weeks following your Lipo360 procedure to help reduce swelling and promote faster recovery
Adopt a healthy diet and exercise routine to maintain your results and support your body’s healing process
Follow all post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Smith and his team, and attend your scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure your recovery stays on track

Lipo 360 vs. Tummy Tuck

	Lipo360	Tummy Tuck
Procedure	Liposuction technique that targets fat deposits around the entire circumference of the midsection, including the abdomen, waist, and back	Surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area while also tightening the underlying abdominal muscles
Addresses	Eliminates stubborn fat pockets to improve body contours and create a more sculpted silhouette	Removes loose, sagging skin and excess fat while repairing stretched or separated abdominal muscles (rectus diastasis)
Best for	Patients with good skin elasticity who primarily seek fat reduction and improved body contours without significant skin removal	Patients with loose, excess skin on the abdomen, often due to significant weight loss or pregnancy, who may also have muscle separation or weakening
Recovery	Most patients return to normal activities within 48 hours, with full recovery achieved in 4-6 weeks	Recovery typically takes 4-6 weeks, with patients gradually resuming normal activities as healing progresses
Results	A more sculpted, streamlined appearance with reduced fat deposits and improved body proportions	A flatter, firmer abdominal area with tightened skin and muscles, resulting in a more toned and youthful-looking midsection

Determining the Best Path Forward

Large-volume liposuction offers transformative results when performed safely and skillfully by an experienced plastic surgeon. By meticulously removing multiple liters of stubborn fat stores at once, natural, balanced contours can be revealed like never before when diet and exercise may have fallen short on their own.

If you have areas of disproportionate fullness resistant to traditional weight loss efforts, consulting a liposuction expert could provide just the solution you are looking for. Discuss your goals and medical profile openly with a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon to determine if you are a good candidate.

Dr. Darren M. Smith has helped countless men and women sculpt their figures through minimally invasive body contouring techniques. To learn more about how large-volume liposuction could transform your silhouette, schedule your confidential consultation with his practice today. Your ideal figure might be closer than you think.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Lipo360 and a tummy tuck?
Does Lipo360 remove as much fat as traditional liposuction?
What areas of the body can be treated with Lipo360?
Is Lipo360 less invasive than a tummy tuck?
How long do Lipo360 results last?

Start Your Journey Today

Ready to take the first step toward achieving the figure of your dreams? With Dr. Smith’s expertise and personalized approach, you can feel confident in your decision to embrace a more sculpted, confident version of yourself.

Dr. Smith’s extensive track record of success and hundreds of satisfied patients are a testament to his unparalleled skill, artistic eye, and dedication to creating results that are both dramatic and natural-looking. By choosing Dr. Smith for your Lipo360 procedure, you can trust that you are in the hands of a true expert who will prioritize your safety, comfort, and individual goals at every step of the journey.

To learn more about how Dr. Smith can help you achieve your ideal body contours, schedule your informative consultation today. During this in-depth meeting, you will have the opportunity to discuss your concerns, ask questions, and work with Dr. Smith to develop a fully customized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and desired outcome.

Dr. Smith and his compassionate, knowledgeable staff will take the time to listen to your goals, thoroughly assess your individual anatomy, and outline a personalized approach to Lipo360 that will create the most flattering, natural-looking results for your figure. Whether you are seeking to refine your silhouette after significant weight loss, restore your pre-pregnancy body, or simply achieve the sculpted physique you’ve always wanted, Dr. Smith has the expertise and experience to help you reach your objectives.

If you’ve been dreaming of a more toned, proportional figure but have struggled to achieve your goals through diet and exercise alone, Lipo360 with Dr. Smith may be the solution you’ve been seeking. With his advanced techniques, state-of-the-art technology, and personalized approach to care, Dr. Smith can help you unlock your body’s full potential and achieve the transformative results you deserve.

Don’t wait any longer to begin your journey to a more confident, sculpted you. Click here to request your consultation with Dr. Smith and take the first step toward discovering the life-changing benefits of Lipo360. With Dr. Smith as your guide, you can trust that you are on the path to achieving the body of your dreams and embracing a new level of self-assurance and vitality.

Lipo 360: Sculpt Your Dream Body with NYC’s Top Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Darren M Smith in the Heart of New York City

Dr. Smith’s practice sits in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, steps from Central Park and at the center of New York City’s most established medical corridor. The office welcomes patients from across the five boroughs, the tri-state area, and well beyond.

Choosing where you have surgery matters as much as choosing who performs it. New Yorkers come to Dr. Smith because his work reflects the city itself: refined, exacting, and never one-size-fits-all. Whether you’re a lifelong New Yorker or traveling in for a consultation, you’ll find a practice that treats every patient with precision and discretion that have made Manhattan a destination for plastic surgery patients from around the world.

Book an Appointment

Belvedere Castle in Central Park, New York City — steps from Dr. Smith's Manhattan practice

Schedule a Lipo 360: Sculpt Your Dream Body with NYC’s Top Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Darren M Smith Consultation with Dr. Darren Smith

Call Today (212) 633-0627

“Within the first couple of minutes of meeting him, I knew he was the doctor for me.”

N F

New York, NY

Google

4.9