Liposuction: Myths & Facts

Men and women across the world undergo liposuction procedures daily. Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that breaks up fat cells and then “vacuums” or drains them from the body. There a few different types of liposuction and many of them are done as outpatient procedures.

The abdomen is the most common area for liposuction to be performed on; however other “problem areas” like the thighs, arms, and back also may benefit from liposuction procedures.

Many individuals avoid liposuction due to misconstrued truths and hearsay. There is important information that anyone interested in liposuction should understand.

Myth: Liposuction is a Permanent Weight Loss Solution

Liposuction is not a substitution for a healthy lifestyle. Contrary to popular belief, liposuction does not remove fat for good or help individuals lose weight.

Liposuction is thought of as a contouring procedure–it does not control appetite, weight gain or loss. This procedure is ideal for “problem areas” on individuals who are within close range of their target weight (25-30 lbs).

Fact: Liposuction is Meant for Removal of Small Fat Pockets

Liposuction is not meant for individuals who have lost a substantial amount of weight or were previously obese. Liposuction is meant to target one or two small areas on the body that have fat deposits; it does not remove cellulite or smooth the skin.

In fact, individuals who are very overweight or obese may not be safe candidates for liposuction. The removal of too much fat can lead to unappealing aesthetic results and medical complications like infection.

Myth: Liposuction Prevents Future Fat Growth

While liposuction does remove the fat cells from certain areas of the body, it does not prevent fat from returning and moving to other areas. Fat cannot grow in the areas where fat cells were removed but they may transfer to other regions of the body.

The silhouette of your new, shaped body will remain the same, however the amount of fat that can come back is not limited. New fat cells will only redevelop in treated areas if weight is gained by 10{932a8fa5ac1cfa9d7cdc20c846563fb8f434ff42d1e0d792fd4d62bc2b5e525e} or more.

Fact: Recovery is Not a Lengthy Process

In previous years, liposuction required much more downtime than it does using modern techniques. Many people still believe liposuction requires months of rest and downtime, however patients usually can return to (reasonable) normal activity levels and work within a few days.

Swelling and bruising may be present for 7-10 days. A girdle or similar compression-type garment may have to be worn for up to four weeks, but this should not limit you in your activities.

Contact Preserve your Pretty Skin and Body

Dr. Myla and the staff at Preserve your Pretty Skin and Body are experts in liposuction for patients seeking treatment in the metro Atlanta area. We are happy to answer any questions you may have about liposuction.

Schedule a consultation with us today at (678) 325-0006 or via our contact form.