There were about 17.1 million surgical and minimally invasive cosmetic procedures performed in the U.S. in 2016, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). While non-invasive procedures are certainly popular, breast augmentation plastic surgery and liposuction are still extremely common.

Cosmetic surgeries like liposuction often have a bad reputation thanks to the media’s portrayal, but the fact is you don’t end up looking unreal. Breast reductions and breast enlargements don’t leave you with a fake, plastic-looking body. And liposuction, one of the most misunderstood surgeries, isn’t actually a procedure for the obese.

To help dispel some of the myths about cosmetic liposuction, here are some facts that might surprise you.

It’s Not For The Obese
While the procedure might involve fat removals, it is not an actual treatment for weight loss or obesity. A good candidate for the procedure should be within 30% of their ideal body weight. This procedure essentially targets fat that has not responded to diet and exercise. In many cases, these fat deposits may be due to genetics rather than lifestyle. The ideal candidate is actually fit, active, and a non-smoker.

It Takes Months
While before and after photos can show remarkable results, those results are not actually immediate. A patient wears elastic bandages after the procedure and can do so for weeks to reduce the swelling. You might not even see final results until months after the cosmetic surgery. Even though it can be a drastic change, remember to be patient and give your body time to recover.

The Procedure Comes With Risks
The procedure is safe when performed by a licensed and experienced surgeon or dermatologist, but it is still a major surgery. There are risks and complications that come along with these procedures. For instance, a blood or fat clot can travel up the bloodstream to your lungs or brain, which means there’s a risk of bleeding, infection, or skin color changes. You should talk to your doctor in great detail and give your options a lot of thought before undergoing this surgery.

Lasers May Be Involved
Some new forms of liposuction involve using ultrasound or lasers to liquefy fat and make it easier to remove. This can cut down on issues like bruising, and boost recovery speed. If you have questions about the logistics of the procedure, ask your doctor for clarification. This can help reduce anxiety leading up to your surgery.

Dermatologists Can Perform It
On occasion, dermatologists can perform this procedure, as any doctor can as long as they have training. You should, however, make sure you have the best doctor available and that they have the experience needed.

Liposuction and other plastic surgeries get a lot of bad media coverage, but that’s not the experience for most patients. Results can vary, and unless you undergo a lot of them, you won’t end up looking fake or unrealistic.