Misconceptions About Liposuction
Liposuction is perhaps the most popular cosmetic procedure in the country. According to statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), liposuction was the top cosmetic surgery performed in 2022 for the second year in a row.* Still, there are a number of misconceptions about what liposuction entails, as well as what patients can expect from the final results. If you’re considering surgical fat removal, it’s important to learn the truth behind the procedure and debunk the most prevailing liposuction myths, which generally include:
You cannot gain weight after liposuction.
As a body contouring surgery, liposuction does nothing to prevent weight gain. While the fat cells removed are gone forever, surrounding fat cells can still grow larger or smaller. Patients can certainly experience weight fluctuation after surgery, which can potentially change the outcome of your liposuction. Our team encourages individuals who have received liposuction to live an active, healthy lifestyle to help them maintain a stable weight.
Liposuction can get rid of all belly fat.
Although liposuction can be very effective in removing subcutaneous fat, which refers to the fat residing underneath the skin, the procedure cannot address internal fat located in the abdominal cavity. This type of fat, known as “visceral fat,” can only be reduced with dieting, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle. In cases where liposuction patients still have a protruding or hanging belly despite removing their belly fat, this can be a sign of lingering visceral fat between the abdominal organs.
Liposuction can treat cellulite.
Cellulite refers to the bumpy or dimpled look often found on the thighs, abdomen, or buttocks. Cellulite can compromise a sleek, smooth, or taut look, which is why many patients seek out treatments to correct skin dimpling and improve the texture of the skin. While liposuction can help reduce fat in the treated area(s), the procedure is not considered an effective cellulite treatment.
Liposuction cannot be performed on older patients.
Many people believe liposuction is designed for younger men and women, but the procedure can also help older patients achieve their aesthetic goals as well. More important than age when considering candidacy for liposuction is the quality of a patient’s skin tone, and whether they exhibit signs of laxity (loose skin). As long as individuals have good skin elasticity, they can typically obtain good results with liposuction.
At your consultation, Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani will explain every aspect of the procedure to help ensure you have a strong and thorough understanding of liposuction. You will also be able to ask any questions or discuss lingering concerns so you can make an informed decision about whether you’d like to proceed with surgery.
Liposuction can beautifully sculpt areas of the body affected by excess fat buildup. For more information, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani, our Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, or to contact our Orlando practice to learn more.