New York City’s aesthetic market is booming, attracting patients from around the globe who seek first-rate cosmetic procedures. This guide simplifies the process by highlighting the city’s most distinguished liposuction specialists.
We evaluate each practitioner based on their board certifications, adoption of advanced technology, patient safety records, and demonstrated ability to deliver natural, pristine results. With so many options available, choosing the right surgeon can be an overwhelming process.
- Selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon is the most critical step for ensuring safety and achieving optimal outcomes.
- Advanced technologies like VASER, BodyTite, and SmartLipo offer enhanced precision and can improve skin tightening effects.
- A surgeon’s experience and specialized focus, such as minimally invasive techniques or high-definition contouring, significantly influence the final result.
| Name | Pros | Cons | Pricing |
| Dr. Darren Smith | Expert in advanced technologies (VASER, BodyTite, SmartLipo)Focus on customized, precision contouringRapid recovery protocols | Premium pricing reflects specialization | By Consultation |
| Dr. David Rapaport | Newsweek-recognized liposuction surgeonOver 27 years of experience with an impeccable safety recordSpecializes in minimally invasive techniques | Conservative approach may not suit those seeking extremely dramatic changes | By Consultation |
| Berlet Plastic Surgery | Unique architectural approach to body proportionalityDouble board-certified with 35+ years of experienceFocus on regenerative aesthetics and natural results | Philosophy avoids trendy aesthetics, which may not align with all patient goals | By Consultation |
| Dr. Jerry W. Chang | Chief of Plastic Surgery at a major NYC hospitalExtensive training at Yale and HarvardFluent in Mandarin and English | Part of a large surgical group, which may feel less boutique than a private practice | By Consultation |
| Cangello Plastic Surgery | Known for an artistic surgical approach and natural-looking outcomesAdopts modern, less invasive technologiesHigh patient satisfaction ratings | Primarily known for facial procedures, though highly skilled in body contouring | By Consultation |
Contents
How We Evaluated NYC Surgeons
To identify the leading liposuction specialists, we focused on several key pillars of excellence. These criteria ensure that every surgeon on our list not only possesses exceptional technical skill but also prioritizes patient well-being above all else. The rise of new techniques makes it more important than ever to choose a practitioner who is both experienced and innovative.
Board Certification and Expertise
A non-negotiable standard for our list is board certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This certification guarantees that the surgeon has completed rigorous training and passed comprehensive exams focused on patient safety and surgical proficiency. We also considered years of experience, fellowship training, and any specific recognitions or awards that denote a high level of expertise.
Advanced Technology and Techniques
Modern liposuction is more than just fat removal; it is about precision body sculpting. We selected surgeons who utilize a range of advanced technologies to achieve superior results. This includes tools for ultrasound-assisted lipo (like VASER), radiofrequency-assisted lipo (like BodyTite) for skin tightening, and laser-assisted methods (like SmartLipo). A surgeon’s ability to combine these tools demonstrates a commitment to customized treatment. Recent studies highlight how AI models can now predict blood loss during procedures with 94% accuracy, further enhancing safety protocols.
Patient Safety and Satisfaction
A surgeon’s safety record is paramount. We reviewed information on facility accreditation, anesthesia protocols, and patient testimonials. While tragic outcomes are rare, the procedure is not without risks, and reports of deaths by liposuction highlight the importance of choosing a qualified provider.
Dr. Darren Smith
As a leading liposuction surgeon in NYC, Dr. Darren M. Smith is renowned for his mastery of advanced body contouring technologies. His practice is popular with patients seeking highly customized and precise results, from full-body transformations to targeted sculpting of stubborn fat deposits. Dr. Smith’s approach integrates a deep understanding of anatomy with an artistic eye for creating natural, harmonious body shapes.
His expertise in a variety of state-of-the-art liposuction methods allows for tailored treatment plans. By combining techniques, Dr. Smith can address fat removal and skin laxity simultaneously, a common concern for many patients. This is especially true for those seeking body contouring after significant weight loss— a trend fueled by new weight-loss medications. His proficiency with multiple tools ensures each procedure is optimized for the patient’s unique goals and body type.
Dr. Smith is particularly known for his skill with VASER liposuction, an advanced technique using ultrasound energy to selectively break apart fat cells before removal. This reflects the growing market for ultrasound-assisted procedures, valued for their ability to support precise contouring. For patients with mild to moderate skin laxity, he often pairs liposuction with BodyTite, which uses radiofrequency energy to tighten the skin for a smoother, more toned final appearance.
| Key Technologies | VASER Lipo, BodyTite/FaceTite, SmartLipo |
| Specializations | High-definition body sculpting, precision contouring, skin tightening |
| Typical Recovery | Return to work in approximately 48 hours; light gym activity within a week |
| Anesthesia Options | Local, twilight sedation, or general anesthesia |
Dr. David Rapaport
Dr. David Rapaport is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 27 years of experience specializing in liposuction at his accredited Fifth Avenue facility. His practice is built on a foundation of safety, a conservative surgical approach, and a commitment to delivering natural-looking results with minimal downtime. This dedication to excellence was recently recognized when he was named by Newsweek as one of America’s Best Liposuction Surgeons for 2025.
Dr. Rapaport is known for a gentle surgical technique that minimizes pain and accelerates recovery. His practice has maintained a perfect safety record for over three decades, with no reported fatalities or emergency transfers, offering immense peace of mind to his patients. He also offers proprietary treatments for the double-chin area and utilizes technologies like Renuvion for tissue tightening, ensuring a comprehensive approach to body contouring.
| Primary Focus | Liposuction, body contouring, breast augmentation |
| Key Differentiator | Impeccable 30+ year safety record and minimally invasive approach |
| Experience | 27+ years, board-certified since 1995 |
| Accolades | Newsweek’s America’s Best Plastic Surgeons 2025 (Liposuction) |
Berlet Plastic Surgery
Led by Dr. Anthony Berlet, a double board-certified surgeon with over 35 years of experience, Berlet Plastic Surgery stands out for its unique integration of architectural principles into surgical planning. With offices in Manhattan and New Jersey, Dr. Berlet is listed among the leading plastic surgeons in New York. He views the body as a structure, focusing on balance and proportionality to achieve results that are timeless and individualized.
The practice prioritizes safety and ethical results over fleeting aesthetic trends. Dr. Berlet utilizes advanced local anesthesia techniques to enhance comfort and speed up recovery, even in complex cases. He is also a proponent of regenerative aesthetics, using natural fat transfers enriched with stem cells to provide lasting volume and rejuvenation. This approach aligns with his philosophy of cosmetic surgery as both an art and a healing practice.
| Unique Approach | Architectural principles for body proportionality |
| Certifications | Double board-certified in Plastic and General Surgery |
| Specializations | Regenerative aesthetics, natural fat transfer, timeless results |
| Patient Philosophy | Prioritizes ethical outcomes over temporary trends |
Dr. Jerry W. Chang
Dr. Jerry W. Chang is a board-certified plastic surgeon and a partner at the renowned Long Island Plastic Surgical Group. Since 2018, he has served as the Chief of Plastic Surgery at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens Hospital, a testament to his leadership and expertise. Dr. Chang performs a wide array of procedures with a specialization in liposuction, facial rejuvenation, and breast surgery.
His academic background is exceptional, with a medical degree from Washington University and surgical training at both Yale and Harvard. Dr. Chang has been repeatedly recognized as a New York Times Super Doctors Rising Star, reflecting his clinical excellence. Fluent in both English and Mandarin Chinese, he serves a diverse patient population across the tristate area, earning praise for his attentive care and excellent surgical outcomes.
| Hospital Affiliation | Chief of Plastic Surgery, NewYork-Presbyterian Queens |
| Education & Training | Washington University (MD), Yale, Harvard |
| Key Recognitions | NYT Super Doctors Rising Star |
| Languages Spoken | English, Mandarin Chinese |
Cangello Plastic Surgery
Dr. David Cangello is a world-class, board-certified plastic surgeon whose practice is synonymous with artistry and natural-looking results. While highly regarded for facial procedures, his skill in body contouring and liposuction is equally distinguished. Dr. Cangello is known for his personalized consultations, where he thoroughly explains procedures and aligns with aesthetic goals with his patients.
His practice is notable for its adoption of modern, less invasive technologies. For example, he is one of the few surgeons in NYC offering Piezo ultrasonic rhinoplasty, a technique using ultrasonic waves for precise bone reshaping. This commitment to advanced, gentle technology reflects his overall surgical philosophy, which he applies to body procedures like liposuction to ensure a smoother recovery and refined outcomes. Patients frequently praise his meticulous approach and the attentive care provided by his entire team.
| Surgical Philosophy | Artistic approach focused on natural-looking outcomes |
| Noteworthy Technology | Adopts modern, less invasive tools (e.g., Piezo) |
| Key Strengths | Highly detailed consultations, meticulous technique |
| Patient Experience | High satisfaction ratings for both results and team care |
Making an Informed Choice for Your Body
Choosing a liposuction specialist in New York City is a significant decision that requires careful research and consideration. The surgeons on this list represent the pinnacle of the profession, combining extensive experience, technological innovation, and an unwavering commitment to patient safety. By prioritizing board certification and seeking a surgeon whose aesthetic philosophy aligns with your own, you can move forward with confidence.
Ultimately, the best results come from a collaborative partnership between patient and surgeon. A thorough consultation is essential for discussing your goals, understanding the procedure, and setting realistic expectations. With the right specialist, you can achieve the refined, natural contours you desire and enhance your confidence for years to come.