Inner & Outer Thigh Lipo
Remove inner thigh chafing fat and outer saddlebags for smoother, more contoured legs.
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Santa Monica's Liposuction Specialist
Liposuction
Liposuction
Santa Monica
Board-certified dermatologist performing tumescent (awake) liposuction. No general anesthesia. 25+ years exclusively in body contouring.
25+
Years of Experience
15,000+
Procedures Performed
4.7★
Google Rating
AAAHC
Accredited Facility
Liposuction Procedures
Precision body contouring with the awake tumescent technique — targeting stubborn fat that diet and exercise can't reach.
Buffalo Hump Removal
Targeted liposuction to remove the stubborn fat deposit at the base of the neck and upper back.
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Butt Liposuction
Reshape and reduce the buttocks and outer hip area for a more proportionate silhouette.
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Male Liposuction
Chest, abdomen, flanks, and back — body contouring solutions tailored specifically for men.
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Chin & Neck Liposuction
Eliminate the double chin and define the jawline with precise tumescent liposuction.
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Upper Arm Liposuction
Slimmer, more toned upper arms by removing stubborn fat from the tricep and inner arm area.
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Knees & Ankles Lipo
Refine the lower leg silhouette — reducing fat deposits around knees and ankles.
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Bra Roll Liposuction
Target the fat rolls along the upper back and bra strap line that no amount of exercise will shift.
Learn MoreHow Tumescent Liposuction Works
Tumescent liposuction is the technique Dr. Massey has refined over 25+ years. Unlike traditional liposuction performed under general anesthesia, the tumescent method uses only local anesthesia — so you remain awake, alert, and comfortable throughout.
A dilute solution of lidocaine (local anesthetic) and epinephrine (to reduce bleeding) is infused into the fat layer. This causes the tissue to become firm — or "tumescent" — making fat easier to remove with precision and minimal trauma to surrounding structures.
Fat is then removed through a thin cannula inserted through tiny incisions. The entire procedure is performed in our AAAHC-accredited outpatient center. Most patients walk in and walk out the same day.
Who Is the Ideal Candidate?
The best candidates for liposuction have distinct areas of stubborn fat that are out of proportion with the rest of their body — and are in good general health. Liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure; it is precision body contouring for localized fat deposits that resist diet and exercise.
Both men and women of virtually any age can be good candidates. Dr. Massey evaluates each patient individually during a free consultation.
Why Awake Liposuction?
- ✓ Eliminates general anesthesia risks
- ✓ Shorter, more comfortable recovery
- ✓ Patient can move during procedure for better access
- ✓ Lower risk of surgical complications
- ✓ No nausea or anesthesia hangover
- ✓ Drive yourself home (with a companion)
- ✓ Return to light activity within days
Procedure Duration
20 minutes to 3 hours depending on treatment areas. Most single-area procedures take under 90 minutes. Multi-area sessions are scheduled accordingly.
Get Your Custom PlanWhy Choose Dr. Massey?
Three core reasons patients travel from across Los Angeles County — and beyond — to our Santa Monica center.
Awake Procedure
Dr. Massey performs all liposuction using only local anesthesia. You remain awake and comfortable — eliminating the serious risks associated with general anesthesia and enabling a faster, smoother recovery.
Board Certified
Dr. Ralph A. Massey is a board-certified dermatologist (ABDerm) with over 25 years dedicated exclusively to liposuction. That singular focus — not a general cosmetic practice — means genuine depth across 15,000+ procedures.
AAAHC Accredited
Our outpatient surgical center holds full AAAHC accreditation — the gold standard in ambulatory care safety. This requires rigorous independent inspection of protocols, staffing, and patient outcomes.
Common Questions
Quick answers to what patients most often ask about liposuction at our Santa Monica practice.
Is liposuction a substitute for weight loss?
No. Tumescent liposuction is not meant for weight reduction or correction of generalized obesity. It is body contouring designed to remove stubborn, localized fat deposits that are disproportionate to the rest of the body. The best candidates are close to their ideal weight.
Will there be scarring after liposuction?
The incision made for the cannula is tiny — under 1 cm. It leaves a small mark that typically fades significantly over time. Dr. Massey places incisions strategically in discreet locations to minimize any visible marks.
When will I see my results?
You will see an initial improvement immediately after the procedure, though swelling is present. Most patients see significant results within 4–6 weeks as swelling resolves, with final results visible at 3–6 months.
How long do results last?
Liposuction permanently removes fat cells from the treated area. Remaining fat cells can expand if significant weight gain occurs, so maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle preserves your results long-term.
Is liposuction covered by insurance?
Cosmetic liposuction is not covered by insurance as it is an elective procedure. Financing options including CareCredit may be available. Ask about payment options during your free consultation.
Ready to Discuss Your Goals?
Schedule a confidential consultation with Dr. Massey. We'll evaluate your areas of concern, walk through the tumescent procedure, and give you a clear picture of what's achievable.