If I had a pound for every time I’ve seen a client grab a chunk of fat and ask, “Can’t we just suck this out?” I would be a millionaire. Ever since liposuction was invented in 1974 (by a gynecologist, no lie), people have been lining up for the easy way to get rid of excess fat. Suction-assisted lipoplasty (liposuction) was the most popular surgical cosmetic procedure in 2007, as more than 450 million patients had fat vacuumed out of their body.

Now there are other, less invasive options, all controversial but all very popular. The newest, most popular is Smart Lipo, which melts away fat using a high powered laser. The doctor pierces the skin with a tube that delivers laser energy to fat cells, causing them to burst and drain away like other bodily waste. The laser energy literally melts fat cells and, as an added bonus, causes collagen shrinkage and creates a tighter appearance. Smart Lipo was approved by the FDA in 2006, and has created many happy patients.

Mesotherapy (also known as Lipodissolve and Lipolysis) is a controversial procedure during which a mix of liquid drugs is injected to destroy fat cells that then leave the body along with normal waste removal. Mesotherapy has been around for more than 50 years (longer than liposuction), but is NOT FDA approved and produces inconsistent results, partially because the drug concoction differs with each patient. According to

The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, mesotherapy has many reported cases of complications including bacterial infection, granulomas (funky masses of chronically inflamed tissue—ick!), and even tissue death (localized necrosis).

Side affects for any type of fat removal include deformed skin appearance: sagging, lumpiness, dimpling, and rippling. Smart Lipo seems to have the lowest risk, but Smart Lipo is also only for small areas of the body that cannot be altered by diet and exercise. (Note: Many doctors can be persuaded to do almost anything if you throw enough money at them, but we’re looking for safety and long-term satisfaction here.)

If you’re going to take the plunge, it’s crucial to do your research and find a highly qualified, experienced doctor. This is not the time for impulse purchases, nor should you look for bargains. Know your risks (check out Awfulplasticsurgery.com for worst-case-scenarios), and seek support throughout the process (friend and family are best, but also try the message boards at Makemeheal.com).

Or, better yet, instead of sucking it out, you can suck it up and focus on improving your diet and exercise routine. That’s why DietAnotherDay.co.uk exists! Lean on us for the most effective techniques, like Yoga Booty Ballet.