ERA Aesthetics: Kimberly Jones, M.D.
2395 Kildaire Farm Rd
Cary, NC 27518
Phone: (919) 342-9844
Fax: 919-342-9794
Hours
Monday–Friday: 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
What Is Awake Liposuction?
Awake liposuction is a minimally invasive body contouring procedure that uses local anesthesia instead of general anesthesia, allowing patients to remain comfortably awake during treatment. Dr. Jones gently removes fat using power-assisted technology, while patients stay relaxed and responsive.
Because awake liposuction doesn’t involve general anesthesia, it offers important safety advantages and typically results in a shorter, more comfortable recovery than traditional liposuction.
Dr. Jones has performed more than 2,000 awake liposuction procedures, making her the most experienced provider of this technique in North Carolina’s Research Triangle.
The technique is ideal for patients seeking precise fat removal with a more streamlined recovery experience.
Benefits of Awake Liposuction
Awake liposuction offers several safety benefits compared to traditional methods using general anesthesia. Patients are fully conscious and can breathe on their own throughout the procedure, reducing potential anesthesia-related risks.
We provide sedatives for relaxation and numb the treatment area with local anesthesia. During your procedure, you may feel sensations such as pressure, tugging, and movement rather than pain.
Other benefits of awake liposuction include:
- Real-time feedback from patients during the procedure
- Less nausea and grogginess afterward
- Faster overall recovery for many patients
Patients are relaxed, comfortable, and monitored closely throughout the procedure.
Dr. Jones
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Kimberly Jones blends surgical expertise with genuine empathy. Known for mommy makeovers and body contouring, she offers personalized, natural-looking results in a supportive, judgment-free environment where patients feel comfortable, understood, and confident from consultation through recovery.
Get to Know Dr. Jones
Comprehensive Body Contouring
Dr. Jones often combines awake liposuction with a tummy tuck alternative that removes excess abdominal skin without general anesthesia. The minimally invasive procedure is an effective and convenient option for contouring the abdominal area. If you’re near your goal weight and are in good overall health, combining awake liposuction with skin removal is a great option that involves a faster recovery and less downtime than a conventional tummy tuck.
Awake Liposuction Treatment Areas
Awake liposuction is ideal for targeted body contouring in areas such as the:
- Abdomen
- Flanks
- Back
- Thighs
- Arms
While it is not a weight-loss procedure, it is highly effective at removing stubborn fat that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise.
Dr. Jones focuses on balance and proportion, creating results that look natural and feel appropriate for your body and lifestyle.
Awake Liposuction vs. Traditional Liposuction
Choosing the right type of liposuction depends on your goals, anatomy, and comfort level. Understanding the differences between awake liposuction and traditional liposuction can help you make a confident, informed decision about your care and recovery.
Awake Liposuction
- Performed using local anesthesia
- Patient remains comfortably awake
- Lower exposure to anesthesia-related risks
- Quicker recovery for many patients
Traditional Liposuction
- Performed under general anesthesia
- Patient is fully asleep during the procedure
- Increased anesthesia-related risks
- Longer recovery for some patients
Dr. Jones will help determine which approach is safest and most appropriate based on your anatomy, goals, and overall health. The amount of fat that she can remove is approximately the same using either technique.
Awake Liposuction Recovery Timeline
Recovery after awake liposuction is typically smoother than traditional liposuction, though healing can vary depending on the patient and the areas treated. You will meet with Dr. Jones at each of your follow-up appointments.
Same day
Go home shortly after the procedure
1–3 days
Soreness, swelling, and bruising gradually improve
3–5 days
Many patients return to work and most daily activities
Additional Recovery Considerations
- Individual recovery times differ; some patients feel ready to return to their regular routine sooner, while others need additional time.
- Compression garments are worn as directed to support healing and contour.
- Light movement is encouraged early; exercise resumes gradually with clearance.
Dr. Jones provides clear post-procedure instructions and follows you closely throughout recovery.
Awake Liposuction FAQs
Is awake liposuction painful?
No, patients are kept comfortable with local anesthesia during awake liposuction. Most patients describe pressure or movement rather than pain.
How safe is awake liposuction?
Awake liposuction is generally safe for well-selected patients when performed by an experienced surgeon. Avoiding general anesthesia can significantly reduce certain surgical risks, and Dr. Jones’ extensive experience further enhances safety.
How long do results last?
Results are long-lasting as long as you maintain a stable weight. Fat cells removed during the procedure don’t return, but the remaining fat cells can get larger with weight gain.
Will I be awake the entire time?
Yes, but you’ll be relaxed, comfortable, and closely monitored throughout the procedure.
How is this different from nonsurgical fat reduction treatments?
Awake liposuction physically removes fat cells for more precise and immediate contouring. Non-invasive, energy-based fat reduction treatments gradually reduce fat, producing more subtle results that may require multiple sessions.
Start the
Discussion
With Dr. Jones
A consultation with Dr. Jones never feels rushed. She takes the time needed to listen to your concerns and answer your questions, so you feel confident in your choice. You can use the online form to request a consultation or call us at (919) 342-9844. Women and men considering awake liposuction in Raleigh, Cary, or throughout the Research Triangle trust Dr. Jones for outstanding care and results.