Why Liposuction Is Not a Weight Loss Procedure
Most of us have a little bit of unwanted body fat that we’d like to get rid of. It can be easier said than done, but that’s where Jefferson Plastic Surgery can help. Our team can perform liposuction for cosmetic removal of unwanted body fat. The surgery can be performed on the stomach, the love handles, the thighs, the buttocks, the upper arms, and even parts of the neck and face.
While liposuction is a great way to look slimmer and trimmer, it’s not intended for weight loss. It’s something that we stress to all patients who come to our Philadelphia, PA practice. Let’s explain why that is below.
Doesn’t Liposuction Cause Some Weight Loss?
Yes, liposuction will cause you to lose a little bit of weight when unwanted body fat is removed. However, that amount of weight loss isn’t drastic. Liposuction is not going to achieve the same sort of weight loss you would get from leading a more healthy lifestyle, or from bariatric surgery.
In short, you may lose some weight during a liposuction, but you shouldn’t get a liposuction because you want to lose weight. If you’re obese or morbidly obese, liposuction is not the answer.
How Much Fat Is Removed During Liposuction?
Only a certain amount of body fat can be removed safely. Your body needs fat cells, and removing too much fat at one time can lead to a number of health problems.
For most patients, only 10 or 11 pounds of fat can be removed safely. This will depend on the area of treatment, the patient’s body mass index (BMI), and a host of other factors.
Think of Liposuction as Cosmetic Fat Removal
Given the limits on fat removal and the nature of the surgery, patients should really consider liposuction as a cosmetic fat removal procedure. Yes, you will lose some weight, but a liposuction is really intended to sculpt away a slimmer body contour by carefully removing unwanted pockets of fat.
Patients Should Lose Weight Before Getting Liposuction
On the note of weight loss, we actually encourage liposuction patients to lose as much weight as they can naturally before they undergo surgery. That means eating healthy, exercising regularly, and getting a good night’s sleep. These can all work wonders for reducing weight and helping you look your best. Avoid crash diets and cleanses, just work on wellness.
When it’s time to perform a liposuction, plastic surgeons can remove more of your unwanted body fat. This is the most stubborn fat that diet and exercise alone cannot remove.
Long-Term Benefits of Losing Weight Before Liposuction
Losing weight before liposuction means patients develop good habits after surgery. Not only will the fat be removed, but you’ll be able to exercise and eat right to help keep that body fat off. Preparing for liposuction is also preparation for maintaining the benefits of surgery.
Is Liposuction Right for Me?
The best way to find out if liposuction is the best option for you is to schedule a consultation at our cosmetic surgery practice. Dr. Steven E. Copit, Dr. Patrick J. Greaney, Jr., and Dr. Matthew P. Jenkins look forward to your visit.