Liposuction is one of the most requested and performed cosmetic procedures worldwide. It shapes and contours the figure through the use of a suction technique that removes fat from specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, hips, thighs, buttocks, arms or neck.
Therefore, liposuction acts as two procedures in one: it both refines the figure and achieves weight loss.
- Are the results of liposuction permanent?
- How to prevent weight gain after liposuction?
Indications & results
Despite it aiding in discrete weight loss, liposuction primarily contours and shapes the body. It is important to note that the procedure does not offer a solution to obesity. In fact, liposuction treats unsightly and unaesthetic bulges of the body that failed to respond to diets and physical activities. Patients who suffer from obesity and wish to lose weight may consider undergoing bariatric surgery (
gastric bypass,
gastric sleeve, or
gastric band surgery).
A good candidate for a liposuction should be in good overall health, has an ideal body weight (or nearly), and an elastic skin. During the preliminary diagnosis, the surgeon will make sure that the patient fulfil the criteria of good candidacy.
The results of liposuction will depend on the objectives of the patient and the treated areas (eliminating the double chin, refining thigs, removing tummy fat, etc.)
Sequela of liposuction (precautions)
It is possible to regain a few kilos after liposuction. However, for liposuction results to remain, the patient has to adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes dieting and exercising.
Here are some advice after undergoing liposuction:
- Regular physical activity: lack of physical activity may have negative effects on the patient’s overall health and the results of liposuction. Indeed, by neglecting exercising, additional fatty cells may appear in neighbouring areas of the operation. By advice, the patient may opt for running, cycling, and swimming. The patient should be aware of the dangers of resuming sports shortly after the procedure. The surgeon should approve that the patient is able to resume physical activity three (3) to four (4) weeks after the procedure.
- A healthy and balanced diet: the patient is not required to follow a strict diet after liposuction. A healthy, varied, and balanced food programme is enough to maintain liposuction results. The patient has to eat as much fruits and vegetables as possible per day, and strictly limit the consumption of sugary food and snacks. It is also important to keep hydrated by drinking fair quantities of water on a daily basis.
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco: it is strictly prohibited to smoke or consume alcohol during the first weeks following surgery. While cigarettes do not help in the healing process, alcohol contains bare calories with a negative effect on the body, and the sequela of the surgery.