Liposuction has maintained its position as one of the most frequently requested cosmetic surgery treatments for many years. In fact, The Aesthetic Society® found that liposuction outranked tummy tuck surgery, breast augmentation, and other popular treatment options to become the #1 most performed surgical cosmetic enhancement procedure in 2021. With the continued prevalence of liposuction and its well-demonstrated advantages for individuals who are trying to reduce pockets of excess fat that have proven resistant to traditional exercise and dieting routines, it is important to know that there have been some myths and misconceptions about this treatment that have sprung up over the years, as well. In today’s blog post, we’ll try to help separate myth from reality:
Myth 1: Liposuction is a great way to lose weight.
Liposuction is not designed to serve as a method of weight loss. While it can be very effective for removing excess fat that has collected in specific areas of the body, most individuals will only shed about two to five pounds (depending on the number of areas being treated) after a liposuction procedure. The fact is that ideal candidates for liposuction are typically already at or near a healthy weight when they undergo the treatment—liposuction merely allows them to reduce isolated fat pockets that have proven to be stubbornly resistant to traditional weight loss methods.
Myth 2: Liposuction can help tighten loose skin.
Liposuction will have no aesthetic improvement effect for sagging, loose, and inelastic skin—in fact, pre-existing loose skin is likely to worsen. This is because liposuction only removes excess fat cells in the treatment area; it is not capable of enhancing the skin’s collagen and elastin or removing/tightening sagging skin. In those cases, other treatments that are specifically designed to produce firmer and smoother skin may serve as the ideal option, or may be recommended as a combination procedure with liposuction to address both excess fat and excess skin concerns.
Myth 3: Liposuction can be a good treatment for cellulite.
Liposuction is not effective for cellulite; however, a procedure such as Cellfina® or other alternatives designed for that particular (and very common) concern may be recommended.
Myth 4: Areas treated with liposuction are susceptible to re-growth of extracted fat cells.
When fat cells are removed via liposuction in a certain body area, they will not come back. With that in mind, fat cells that are left behind can still grow and have an effect on the area if excessive weight is gained. This is why it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and exercise routine after liposuction surgery to limit significant weight fluctuations over time.
Liposuction has proven to be a remarkably effective body contouring option for both women and men, and offers numerous benefits for individuals who would like to renew their appearance. If you have questions about liposuction, or if you would like to schedule a consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon, Eric Okamoto, MD, to find out whether this treatment is the right option for your needs, please contact our office today.