Can Fat Return After Liposuction?
Before you jump into the world of conclusions, it’s important to understand the facts about it. Some common questions among those considering liposuction are: “Is liposuction permanent?” “Can you gain weight after lipo?” And, perhaps most importantly, “Can fat return after liposuction?”. Read more to learn the answers to these questions about liposuction and more.
Does Liposuction Remove Fat Cells Permanently?
You might have heard of many success stories about liposuction, but some people still ask, “Does liposuction remove fat cells permanently?”. To answer this question, we must first understand how the procedure works.
Regardless of which technique is used, the aim of liposuction remains consistent: removing fat cells from a specific area. Experienced plastic surgeons use a hollow tube and a suction device that draws out fatty tissue. Unlike other treatments that simply destroy fat cells, this procedure permanently removes fat cells from the body for long-lasting results. After performing liposuction in a specific area, fat cells will not duplicate or regenerate in that same place, making these results permanent.
Can Your Body Rebuild Lost Fat?
As we already explained, liposuction removes fat cells permanently. However, keep in mind that the remaining fat cells may expand or contract depending on whether you lose or gain weight after lipo.
For example, as added fat accumulates on the site of liposuction, these additional fats can get stored in other areas like your thighs or buttocks. That being said, if you gain weight after liposuction surgery, your existing fat cells will grow and could create fresh “problem areas.”
One thing to remember: liposuction is not an alternative for weight loss. It is not a weight loss solution, because it typically removes only small amounts of fat and does not address the underlying causes of obesity. Liposuction is better suited for people with good skin elasticity and close to their ideal body weight, but with stubborn pockets of fat they want to remove.
Post-Liposuction Maintenance: Keeping the Weight Off
An important aspect of liposuction is post-surgery maintenance. In other words, for liposuction to be effective and long-lasting, it is important to commit to a healthy lifestyle after the procedure.
Here are a few tips for maintaining the results of liposuction:
1. Healthy Eating
Eating meals that are lower in carbohydrates and higher in protein can help keep the weight off. Eating food with a low glycemic index will also help ensure that the body receives steady energy throughout the day, instead of experiencing spikes from high-sugar foods. By monitoring your eating habits and avoiding unhealthy snacks, you can help maintain the exceptional results of liposuction.
2. Regular Exercise
Adding a 30-minute physical activity to your daily routine can help you maintain the results of liposuction. Exercise not only helps to keep the weight off, but it also tones your muscles and gives them a defined shape which further enhances the results of liposuction. Since exercise is also a good mood booster, it ensures that you stay in good spirits and adopt a healthy lifestyle.
3. Sleep Management
Research has found that when one doesn’t get adequate amounts of quality sleep, they often over-indulge and lack the will to work out. To ensure that you’re getting the best results from liposuction, make sure to get at least 7-9 hours of sleep every night and avoid food or drinks for at least three hours before you go to bed.
4. Follow-Up Treatments
Keeping close contact with your doctor after liposuction is essential for ensuring the long-term success of the procedure. Follow-up treatments may include additional laser liposuction, fat freezing, or body contouring treatments. This will help maintain the results achieved from liposuction surgery and ensure they last long-term.
Choosing a Qualified Plastic Surgeon: An Important Step in Achieving Optimal Results
A crucial step in achieving optimal liposuction results is choosing the right plastic surgeon. Ensure to do your “due diligence” when it comes to researching surgeons.
The important qualifications to look for in a liposuction surgeon:
- Board certification in plastic surgery or a related specialty
- Expertise in managing cardiac complications
- Accredited liposuction training
Dr. Demetris Stavrou is a board-certified plastic surgeon and liposuction specialist, who has brought amazing results to many patients in Cyprus, Greece, and Malta over the years. He offers outstanding liposuction, body contouring, and Mommy Makeover treatments. With extensive experience in various cosmetic procedures, you can rest assured that you are in the hands of a highly-qualified plastic surgeon.
Conclusion
In conclusion, liposuction is a popular cosmetic procedure that can help individuals achieve a more contoured and sculpted appearance by removing stubborn pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise. However, many people wonder, “does fat come back after liposuction?”. The answer is yes; fat may return after liposuction. Thus, it is important to maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise regimen to maintain the results of the procedure.
With proper maintenance and follow-up treatments, patients can expect the results of liposuction to last. Following your doctor’s instructions after the procedure is essential for achieving optimal results.
If you are considering liposuction and have questions like “will fat cells come back after liposuction?”, it is important to consult with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Stravou. He will be able to evaluate your individual needs and determine if liposuction is the right procedure for you. Wondering if liposuction leaves scars? Read our article to learn more.
Dr Stavrou is a board-certified and highly experienced plastic surgeon in Cyprus, Greece and Malta, with a keen interest in informing patients about the latest updates on reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery.
- University of Athens Medical School
- Residency in Plastic Surgery at the Chaim Sheba Medical Center at Tel-Hashomer, Israel
- Assistant Professor, St George’s, University of London / Medical School at the University of Nicosia
- Honorary Tutor at the University of Cardiff, School of Medicine, UK
- MSc with Distinction in “Wound Healing and Tissue Repair”, University of Cardiff, School of Medicine, U.K
- Fellow of the European Board of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery (EBOPRAS)
- International Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
- ATLS (Advanced Trauma Life Support) Instructor
- Fellowship in “Advanced Aesthetic Surgery” from the Melbourne Institute of Plastic Surgery – Monash University, Australia
- Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
- Brow Lift
- Chin Augmentation
- Facelift
- Facial Cancer Treatment
- Neck Lift
- Otoplasty
- Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery)
