Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat from the body using a hollow stainless steel tube called a cannula. The cannula is inserted through a small incision in the skin and is used to suction out excess fat using a powerful vacuum. Liposuction can be used to improve the contours of the body and is often used on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, and arms. It is typically performed by a plastic surgeon and is usually done on an outpatient basis.