The COVID-19 pandemic made liposuction the most popular type of plastic surgery in the US in 2021 and 2022. Working from home and the closure of gyms across the country caused many people to see an increase of fat on their bodies. When the pandemic was over, there was a rush to have fat patches removed through liposuction. If this sounds familiar, you might be asking, am I a candidate for liposuction?
What Is Liposuction and How Does It Work?
If you have stubborn and unwanted fat patches on your back, thighs, hips, buttocks, upper arms, neck, and chin, liposuction eliminates these fat patches for a more contoured look. It is performed using a cannula, a small stainless steel tube used to break up and extract the fat from beneath the skin.
It is performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia and takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes. It is important to understand what liposuction can and cannot do. It is not for weight loss! Patients only lose an average of 2.5 pounds after the procedure. It does not affect skin laxity, cellulite, stretch marks, or muscle repair.
Best Candidates for Liposuction
The best candidates live a healthy lifestyle including diet and regular exercise. You also should be in good general health and a non-smoker/vaper. Smoking leads to a greater risk of infection and can impede the necessary blood flow needed to heal properly.
You should be within 30% of your ideal weight with firm skin and good muscle tone. You cannot have any conditions that would obstruct healing.
Who Should Not Seek Liposuction?
Unfortunately, there are those who cannot safely have lipo.
The following issues would preclude you from being a good candidate:
- If you are overweight or obese
- If you are pregnant
- If you are not active, do not exercise, and do not plan to after the procedure
- Having unrealistic expectations
- If your skin has lost elasticity due to pregnancy or losing a lot of weight
- A smoker
If you smoke and really want to have lipo, Dr. Loreen Ali will insist you stop smoking for several months before and after.
Heart disease, lung disease, and pulmonary problems can increase the risk factors for liposuction. Disclose all medical history truthfully.
A professional consultation by a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Loreen Ali is the best way to find out if liposuction is right for you.
If you are ready to have a slimmer and more contoured appearance, contact New England Plastic Surgery Center at (978) 942-4835 for a liposuction consultation in Chelmsford. You can alternatively request an appointment through our secure online form.