Lipo Myths Busted

Liposuction is one of the most popular and frequently performed types of cosmetic surgery in the entire world. Despite its popularity, liposuction also is one of the most misunderstood cosmetic procedures. Your local Manhattan plastic surgeon at Preminger Plastic Surgery believes that it is time to bust the myths! Here are some common misconceptions about liposuction, and the facts about each.

MYTH: Liposuction patients lose weight.

FACTS: On average, most patients who receive liposuction only lose two to five pounds. The best candidates for liposuction are within 30 percent of a healthy weight range, and undergo liposuction to reduce unwanted pockets of localized fat. This is because liposuction only targets subcutaneous fat—which is located below the skin and above the muscle.

MYTH: Liposuction can be used to treat cellulite.

FACTS: Clinically speaking, cellulite occurs when subcutaneous fat pushes on the bands of connective tissue under the skin, causing the appearance of dimples and bumps. Liposuction only removes soft, fatty tissue and does not affect the skin directly. Thus, the fibrous bands where cellulite is contained cannot be altered using liposuction.

MYTH: Liposuction is not recommended for older patients.

FACTS: Any patient of any age can undergo a liposuction procedure, provided the individual is in good health and has had a positive medical examination. However, poor skin quality can hinder the success of liposuction, and both the firmness and elasticity of skin tend to decrease as a person ages.

MYTH: Liposuction is dangerous.

FACTS: Liposuction is as safe and successful as any other surgical procedure, but you should be sure to seek the services of a Manhattan plastic surgeon that is board-certified and has significant experience and expertise performing liposuction procedures. Be aware, however, that each operation carries an element of risk.

MYTH: Liposuction can fix sagging skin.

FACTS: Appearance issues such as a double chin or a flabby tummy could stem from a combination of excess fat, sagging skin, and reduced elasticity. A skin tightening procedure is the preferred method of resolving this aesthetic issue, as liposuction may result in a deflated appearance.

MYTH: Fat deposits that are removed by liposuction will return.

FACTS: A liposuction performs suction to remove fat cells. Once this is done, those fat cells will not grow back. This myth persists, however, because remaining fat cells may grow and expand in the area where the liposuction was performed—especially if the patient maintains an excessive calorie intake following the procedure. Patients can prevent this through a healthy diet and regular exercise.

MYTH: You can resume your regular routine immediately after undergoing liposuction.

FACTS: Like any surgical procedure, liposuction involves a recovery period. Common after-effects of a liposuction procedure include swelling, bruising, and soreness at and adjacent to the area being treated. Patients should plan to take about a week off work for rest and recovery following liposuction, and it may take four to six weeks before safely being able to resume strenuous activity or exercise.

MYTH: Only women have liposuction treatments.

FACTS: According to data released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), liposuction was one of the five most popular types of cosmetic surgery performed on men last year.

Liposuction in Manhattan

Liposuction is one of the specializations of Dr. Preminger. Patients wanting to learn more about this procedure should contact our office by calling (866) 201-9828.

Located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, Preminger Plastic Surgery is proud to offer world-class services in plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery to patients throughout New York City.