Liposuction is a procedure that removes fat cells from a specific area of the body. It is among the most common cosmetic operations in the United States. Many patients wonder whether the results of this procedure are permanent. The short answer is that liposuction does remove fat cells permanently, but the full answer is more complex.
More information about liposuction and its longevity:
Liposuction Basics
Liposuction is most frequently done in areas of the body with a high number of fat cells. Factors such as age, gender, and genetics can affect which areas collect the most fat. Some common areas include, but are not limited to:
- Upper body: Neck, chin, upper arms, chest, abdomen
- Lower body: Calves, thighs, ankles, hips, buttocks
Liposuction can be done on its own or in combination with other procedures like a tummy tuck or breast reduction. It is generally a cosmetic surgery, but it can also be used to treat a number of chronic medical conditions, including:
- Gynecomastia: This condition occurs in men, causing their breast tissue to become enlarged. After initial treatment, liposuction can be used to remove excess breast fat.
- Lymphedema: This occurs when lymph nodes are blocked, causing the limbs to swell. Liposuction can help reduce pain and improve drainage.
- Lipomas: These are benign tumors made of fatty tissue most commonly found on the upper body. Liposuction is one option for lipoma removal.
- Axillary hyperhidrosis: This is a condition in which a person experiences excessive sweating. Liposuction is performed over the incision after surgery is done.
How Liposuction Works
Liposuction is performed with a hollow tube called a cannula that is inserted through a small incision in the skin. The tube breaks through the fat layer, splitting up the cells beneath it with slight back and forth movements. The cells are then removed from the body with a suction device called an aspirator.
The procedure is not particularly painful because patients are given anesthesia prior to operation. Some may experience discomfort in the form of swelling and bruising for a few weeks afterward. Patients will begin to see results once the swelling subsides in the treatment area.
What Happens If You Gain Weight After Liposuction
Liposuction is the permanent removal of fat cells from the body. The cells will not regenerate in the same area the surgery was performed. However, fat cells still have the potential to expand depending on the lifestyle the patient maintains after the operation.
If a significant amount of weight is gained after receiving liposuction, the body will redistribute this weight. This causes the fat cells to collect in other areas of the body. The treated area will still be noticeably improved, but it might be diminished by the new areas where fat has accumulated.
Typically, weight gain is not a problem because patients are so pleased with their liposuction results. However, weight redistribution can be further avoided by maintaining what you weighed before the operation. This can be achieved through a healthy lifestyle, including a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and drinking plenty of water.
Your Go-To For Liposuction in Tucson
While each body is naturally beautiful, sometimes you need a little help loving the person you see in the mirror. At Hess and Sandeen, we can assist you in achieving that desired confidence. In addition to liposuction, we offer a variety of cosmetic procedures that will leave you feeling new and improved.
