Liposuction is one of the most beneficial body contouring procedures available; however, there are some things even liposuction cannot accomplish. For a better understanding of how liposuction works, it is essential to understand what liposuction can address and what it cannot.
Liposuction Is Not a Weight Loss Alternative
Liposuction removes unwanted fat cells by suctioning them out through small, inconspicuous incisions. Liposuction is performed on nearly any part of the body that is in need of contouring and fat removal, including the abdomen, hips, thighs, buttocks, knees, back, chest, arms, and neck. Even though liposuction removes fat cells, and fat cells contribute to excess weight, liposuction is not a weight loss surgery and should never be considered an alternative to weight loss. Liposuction removes a specific amount of fat cells; it does not shrink the remaining fat cells the way that a healthy lifestyle or traditional weight loss surgery can. Because of this, liposuction only results in the loss of a few pounds and is often not all that noticeable on the scale. Liposuction is most beneficial when it is performed on patients who are near to their ideal weight and are interested in body contouring, not weight loss. Liposuction will trim your contour; it will not remove multiple dress sizes.
Liposuction Will Not Tighten Skin
Liposuction removes fat cells and can, therefore, sculpt your physique. Unfortunately, liposuction cannot tighten excess or sagging skin. Skin begins to sag due to age, excess weight, and genetics. Although skin can easily stretch with weight gain, it cannot always shrink with weight loss. When this occurs, you may be left with sagging skin. If loose skin is already present on your body, liposuction may only make the problem more noticeable since it is removing additional fat cells. For these patients, it is recommended that liposuction is combined with an additional procedure that will remove and tighten excess skin. Procedures like a tummy tuck or an arm lift are beneficial when performed in combination with liposuction to tighten skin on the arms or abdomen. Together, these procedures provide a comprehensive transformation.
Where Can Liposuction Shine?
Sculpting, Trimming, and Enhancing Your Contour
While liposuction may not remove many pounds, there is no better procedure to get rid of those final trouble spots. Whether you are looking to reduce your stomach pooch after pregnancy, or want to firm up your thighs or arms, liposuction sculpts, trims, and firms your physique so you can reach your ideal body contour.
Enhancing Your Other Features
Many individuals have excess fat in unpleasing areas, and they lack the fat in areas where they wish they could have more. Liposuction is often used as the first step in fat grafting, where fat is taken from an area like the abdomen, and transferred to a different area where increased shape and definition is desired, like the buttocks. This is the Brazilian Butt Lift, and the Brazilian Butt Lift is becoming an increasingly popular way to treat two areas in one procedure. The Brazilian Butt Lift allows you to transform the fat you do not want into the fat you do.
For more information about liposuction or if you think liposuction may be right for you, contact Dr. Goldschmidt at The Cosmetic Surgery Center to set up a consultation by calling (216) 350-3175 or by filling out our online contact form.