Even the most health conscious person struggles with stubborn pockets of fat. Despite strict diets or vigorous fitness regimens, fat can stick to certain areas of the body. These bulges can distort proportions and impact appearance. Though liposuction can be safe and effective to use almost anywhere,* common target areas for the body contouring procedure include the abdomen, love handles, thighs, upper arms and male chest.
Fat Cell Theory
People choose liposuction for a number of reasons, but most don’t know the science behind the body contouring procedure. The body creates fat cells, or adipocytes, until the end of puberty. By adulthood, we have a set number of fat cells that grow or shrink in response to our activity level and eating habits. During liposuction, fat cells are physically removed from the treated areas.*
The Return of Fat Is a Falsehood
A 2012 study published by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) dismissed the myth that after liposuction, fat will return to haunt other parts of the body and create unsightly, distorted proportions. The study examined 301 people post-liposuction and reported no evidence of fat regrowth in targeted areas and no change in dimensions.
Healthy Living for Optimal Results
Just because fat cells are removed doesn’t mean that it’s impossible to gain weight after liposuction. However, having that number inch up on the scale doesn’t have to be a concern for those who commit to a healthy lifestyle post-surgery. Diet and consistent exercise play an integral role in maintaining a steady weight, and weight gain is the biggest compromiser of liposuction results.
*This information is for education only, and is not meant as a guarantee of results. Your results may vary.
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Author: Dr. Francesco Campanile
Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Francesco Campanile is a cosmetic surgeon in Denver who is focused on body contouring and breast enhancement. Time and time again, the women and men who choose Dr. Campanile say that they’ve found “the whole package” – a doctor who cares deeply about the quality of their results and has the skill to achieve excellence.
