Liposuction, or the suction-assisted removal of stubborn fatty deposits, has remained steadfast as one of the most frequently pursued cosmetic procedures in the world. Despite its popularity, there are many myths about liposuction’s capabilities and limitations that persist among individuals interested in surgery. Among the most prevalent misconceptions about liposuction are the notions that:
Liposuction Will Get Rid of All Belly Fat
While the procedure can extract soft, fatty tissue (known as subcutaneous fat), liposuction cannot remove the visceral fat that resides underneath your muscles and between your internal organs. For this reason, some patients who have received liposuction may still notice their abdomen isn’t entirely flat. Fortunately, this intra-abdominal fat can usually be reduced through dieting and exercise.
Liposuction Can Remove Cellulite
Liposuction can remove localized pockets of extra fat, but it doesn’t directly alter the skin or other tissues. Since cellulite is caused by fibrous bands that tether the skin to the underlying muscle, this fat reduction procedure usually cannot smooth cellulite.
Liposuction Will Help You Lose Weight
The amount of weight lost by the typical liposuction patient is approximately two to five pounds. Although the body contouring provided by liposuction can often motivate individuals to live a more active lifestyle, the procedure is not a bariatric surgery or meant to be a method of weight loss.
Liposuction is Only for Young Patients
The quality of one’s skin typically determines candidacy for liposuction more than a patient’s age. Liposuction can be performed on any person who is over 18 and who exhibits the indications for surgery, which include good skin elasticity and isolated bulges of stubborn fat.
Fat Cells Will Return After Liposuction
The fat cells extracted via liposuction are permanently removed; however, this doesn’t make a patient immune to fat accumulation in the future. Fat cells around the treated area(s) can still enlarge or shrink with weight gain or loss, potentially affecting your body contours if your weight doesn’t remain stable.
Being well-informed about what you can expect after liposuction is key to your overall satisfaction with the procedure. To learn more about liposuction in a consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon, please contact our practice online or by calling (914) 840-5999 for more information.