Liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures, helping countless people achieve a more sculpted and contoured body shape. However, there are many misconceptions about what liposuction can and cannot do.
If you’re considering the procedure, it’s important to have realistic expectations so you can make an informed decision. Let’s break down the truth about liposuction, including its benefits, limitations, and what you need to know before undergoing treatment.
What Liposuction Can Do
- Remove Stubborn Fat – Liposuction is designed to target localized fat deposits that don’t respond to diet and exercise. Common areas include the abdomen, thighs, arms, hips, back, and chin.
- Enhance Body Contours – The procedure helps create a more defined, proportionate figure by removing excess fat in specific areas, improving overall shape and symmetry.
- Deliver Long-Lasting Results – Once fat cells are removed through liposuction, they don’t regenerate. As long as you maintain a stable weight, your new contours can be permanent.
- Treat Lipedema or Other Medical Conditions – In some cases, liposuction is used for medical purposes, such as reducing painful fat accumulation in people with lipedema.
What Liposuction Can’t Do
- Help You Lose a Significant Amount of Weight – Liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure. It’s best suited for individuals who are already near their goal weight but have stubborn fat pockets that won’t budge with diet and exercise.
- Tighten Loose or Sagging Skin – If you have significant skin laxity due to weight loss or aging, liposuction alone may not provide the smooth results you’re looking for. In such cases, a tummy tuck, arm lift, or thigh lift may be necessary to remove excess skin.
- Prevent Future Weight Gain – While liposuction removes existing fat cells, it doesn’t stop new ones from forming. If you gain weight after the procedure, fat can accumulate in other areas of your body.
Setting Realistic Expectations
Liposuction provides noticeable improvements in body shape, but it’s not a magic fix. The best candidates are those who:
- Are at or near their ideal weight
- Have good skin elasticity
- Maintain a healthy diet and active lifestyle
- Understand that results are enhancements, not transformations
If you go into the procedure with realistic goals, you’re more likely to be satisfied with your outcome. Your surgeon can help determine if liposuction is right for you and what results you can expect.
Maintaining Your Liposuction Results
To enjoy long-lasting results, lifestyle habits matter. Here’s how to keep your newly contoured figure looking its best:
- Eat a balanced diet with lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains
- Stay active with regular exercise, including strength training and cardio
- Stay hydrated and get enough sleep to support overall health
- Maintain a stable weight to prevent new fat deposits from forming
Is Liposuction Right for You?
If you’re struggling with stubborn fat despite a healthy lifestyle, liposuction may be a great option to refine and enhance your natural shape! However, it’s important to consult with a qualified cosmetic surgeon who can help you determine whether liposuction aligns with your goals and expectations. That way, you can make an informed, empowered decision about what will work best for you!
Contact New England Plastic Surgery Center to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Loreen Ali, MD.
Sources:
https://riossurgery.com/blog/11-facts-and-myths-about-liposuction/
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/ten-common-misconceptions-about-liposuction
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/liposuction/about/pac-20384586