A method for removing adipose tissue uses an elongate rigid tube or probe member (14) having a distal end (16) and a proximal end, and an axially extending lumen (20). An incision is formed in a skin surface of a patient, the tube being inserted through the incision into subcutaneous adipose tissues of the patient. Upon insertion of the tube through the incision, an ultrasonic pressure wave is generated at the proximal end of the tube, the waveform being transmitted through the tube to establish a standing wave therein. The standing ultrasonic wave in the insertion tube produces cavitation bubbles at the distal end of the tube, the bubbles causing liquefaction of adipose tissues of the patient at a surgical site located distally of the distal end of the insertion tube. Suction is applied to the lumen of the tube, thereby aspirating the liquefied adipose tissues from the surgical site through the lumen. During the entire procedure, the distal end of the tube and the adipose tissues at the surgical site are maintained at approximately body temperature.