Liposuction Myths, Debunked

Posted September 25, 2024 in Liposuction

Even though liposuction has been around for nearly 50 years, several misconceptions still exist about what it can and can’t do to help you slim and contour your body. In this blog, we debunk liposuction misinformation so that you are well informed about the procedure and know what to expect from your results. 

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The Popularity of Liposuction

In 2023, nearly 350,000 liposuction procedures were performed, making it the most performed cosmetic surgery. Liposuction consistently stays in the top three most popular cosmetic surgeries performed each year. Its popularity may be attributed to the fact that liposuction is extremely versatile, allowing you to eliminate stubborn fat nearly anywhere on your body, from your chin to your ankles. It can also put the finishing touches on your overall body contour, slimming and trimming places unmoved by your best diet and exercise efforts. However, despite its popularity, more clarity is needed regarding what liposuction can and can’t do. Below, we address some of those myths. 

Myth 1: Liposuction Is a Great Way to Lose Those Last Stubborn Pounds

While liposuction is designed to put the finishing touches on your body, that doesn’t mean it can help you lose those sometimes difficult-to-shed final pounds. It’s true that liposuction is excellent for defining your curves, but the reality is that you typically will only see a difference of two or three pounds on the scale. Ideal candidates for liposuction have reached (or are close to) their weight loss goals and understand that liposuction is a body contouring tool, not a weight loss tool.   

Myth 2: Liposuction Is Only For Women

While women still make up the majority of cosmetic surgery patients, over 20,000 men chose liposuction in 2023, representing a six percent increase over the previous year. Men typically elect to undergo liposuction to create a more masculine physique, focusing on chiseled abs and defined pectorals. Men can choose liposuction as a stand-alone procedure or as part of a comprehensive body contouring procedure like a Daddy Makeover. 

Myth 3: Liposuction Can Eliminate Cellulite

While cellulite is often associated with excess fat, it is actually caused by a variety of other factors, including genetics, age, and lifestyle. Cellulite occurs when fat pushes through tight, fibrous bands of connective tissue under your skin, causing dimpling. While getting rid of excess fat may decrease the appearance of cellulite, that isn’t always the case. Liposuction is an excellent choice for eliminating excess fat, but since it doesn’t address the bands of tissue that cause cellulite, your best bet is to seek a treatment like Avéli™ cellulite reduction. 

Myth 4: Liposuction Can Get Rid of Fat and Tighten Skin

Liposuction can indeed get rid of fat—that’s what it was created to do! However, liposuction on its own does not tighten skin. Lack of elasticity can make it difficult for your skin to “bounce back” after decreasing fat volume in the treatment area. That’s why it’s vital that you wear your compression garment as you heal. The compression garment provides support and helps your skin shape to the new contour of your body. To better ensure that your skin stays taut and smooth, you may want to combine the Renuvion® J-Plasma® skin-tightening treatment with your liposuction procedure. 

Myth 5: Liposuction Results are Permanent and Maintenance-Free

While liposuction results are considered permanent, their longevity depends heavily on you. Liposuction removes fat cells in the targeted treatment area, which makes it more difficult (but not impossible) to regain weight there. However, gaining weight in general can affect your results by increasing fat deposits in other areas of your body and impacting your overall body contour. The best way to maintain your liposuction results is by adhering to a healthy diet and exercising regularly to keep your weight in check.  

Learn More About Liposuction in Coral Gables

Now that we’ve debunked some common myths about liposuction, it’s time for you to take the next step toward achieving the slender figure you’ve always wanted. To schedule an appointment with one of the expert surgeons at Careaga Plastic Surgery, call us today at (305) 929-0445 or complete the online contact form.