About 324,000 people in the U.S. had clumps of fat suctioned out of their abdomen, necks, arms, legs and face in 2005. Recent advances in liposuction mean less pain and a faster recovery.

Risks are low, and fat can't return where there are no longer fat cells. Cost: $2,000 to $15,000

The downside: That doesn't mean you can't gain weight after lipo. You'll just lard up in areas where there are fat cells. And you have to wear a mighty uncomfortable girdle for months after the procedure.

What's new: Abdominal etching. After suctioning, the doctor sculpts grooves in the remaining fat layers to give you washboard abs without the work. Cost: $3,000 to $10,000 on top of standard lipo.

The downside: A handful of surgeons in the country have the skill to do the job right. And do you really want to look like an overchiseled rapper?