Liposuction: Debunking the common myths

Liposuction is a popular and widely performed cosmetic surgery procedure. It is performed to remove excess stubborn fat from various areas of the body that are resistant to exercise and diet. During the process a hollow tube called cannula is inserted into the target area with a small incision which leaves a scar that is too small to notice. Usually, the areas which can be treated through liposuction are: -

• Abdomen
• Hip Area
• Flanks (Love Handles)
• Thighs 
• Legs
• Upper Arms 
• Back
• Chin

 While liposuction has been around for many years and is a common procedure, there are still many myths and misconceptions about it. In this article, we will debunk some of the most common myths about liposuction.

1. Myth: - Liposuction is weight loss method

Fact: - Liposuction is a body contouring procedure, not a weight loss journey. It is designed for the patients who are close to their ideal weight means within the range of 30% of healthy weight, but struggling with stubborn fat pockets, often in localized areas. It alters your curves to achieve defined body shape. The amount of fat that can be extracted safely with the procedure is limited. Liposuction is not a substitute for a healthy diet and exercise routine, and it is not an effective way to lose a significant amount of weight. It can help where diet and exercise cannot. 

2. Myth: - Liposuction is only for women 

Fact: - Liposuction has gained popularity among men and women both. Not only females, males can also achieve their desired body contours with liposuction. They often choose to have liposuction to remove excess fat from the chest (gynecomastia), love handles, chin, abdomen, and other areas of the body. 

3. Myth: - Liposuction is extremely painful 

Fact: - Liposuction is a surgical procedure that involves some discomfort and pain, but it is typically well-tolerated by most patients. The level of pain experienced can vary depending on the type and extent of the procedure, also on the individual's pain tolerance. The pain usually lasts for the first two to seven days with some bruising and soreness. However, patients are typically given pain medication to manage discomfort during the recovery period. 

4. Myth: - Liposuction can remove cellulite

Fact: - Liposuction is not an effective treatment for cellulite. Cellulite occurs when the fat cells beneath the skin push up against the connective tissue, creating a bumping appearance. This condition is caused by several factors including genetics, hormones, and lifestyle. While liposuction can remove fat pockets, it does not address the underlying cause of cellulite which is fibrous tissues. 

5. Myth: - Liposuction results are permanent or temporary 

Fact: - When fat is extracted from the body area, your fat cells are removed. In this sense, it gives permanent results as removed fat cells won’t return to the treated area. However, it does not prevent future weight gain or the accumulation of fat in other areas of the body. If you gain weight, fat can grow and expand evenly to your body, not just at the treated area. Therefore, an improved lifestyle means a healthy diet and exercise regime can preserve your results for a long period. 

6. Myth: - Liposuction can give you immediate results

Fact: - Despite the fact that it takes away the stubborn fat immediately, you have to wait for final results. As your body will take some time to heal and take the new shape. Also, the after-effects of procedures like swelling and bruising will subside after some time. So, you have to keep patience to enjoy the end results and to flaunt the new body shape.  

7. Myth: - Liposuction is a dangerous procedure

Fact: - Liposuction is generally considered a safe procedure when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in the procedure. Like any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with liposuction, including bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. However, these risks are generally rare. 

8. Myth: - Certain age restrictions for liposuction procedure

Fact: - There is no such criterion of upper age limit to undergo liposuction, whereas a person should be an adult. The reason behind this is that it ensures the patients’ body is fully developed after puberty and also they are mature enough to take the decision.

Moreover, a person should be physically and mentally fit along with he should have realistic expectations from the procedure. 

9. Myth: - Mostly obese patients are the right candidates

Fact: - An overweight person is not at all the best candidate. In fact, a person who has maintained ideal weight or who is close to his ideal weight and follows the routine of a well-balanced diet and exercise having troubling stubborn fat pockets can be the ideal candidate. Generally, a surgeon can remove 5 liters of fat per session and he will decide the numbers of the sessions and interval period as well. One can achieve more dramatic results having up to the mark skin elasticity and tone. Moreover, a good surgeon will recommend losing some weight if a person is overweight because it can be medically unsafe and may produce unnatural results. 

10 Myth: - Liposuction requires a significant downtime 

Fact: - With the advanced technology, techniques, and equipment, liposuction procedure has become more effective and safer. Patients will not only enjoy precise fat removal, but also will have quicker recovery time. They will witness the change in body shape immediately after surgery though will experience the final results after some time. Moreover, they will be able to resume their work and other daily activities just after 2 to 5 days after surgery depending upon the responding level of their body. However, they are advised to resume any strenuous activity after 4 to 6 weeks.

11. Myth: - Liposuction removes stretch marks and corrects saggy or loose skin 

Fact: - Liposuction is designed to address fatty tissue, but not the skin issues like laxity, stretch marks or sagging skin as it does not remodel the skin. You may have these issues due to aging, heredity or extreme weight gain or loss. After liposuction, these may become more evident so your surgeon may give you other cosmetic surgery options to get rid of these skin issues. Liposuction is advised to the people who still have good skin elasticity and are close to ideal weight. 

12.  Myth: - All the liposuction techniques are same

Fact: - Liposuction techniques are also innovated with the advanced technology. Now there are several modern types of procedures along with the traditional ones. The choice of technique to be used is dependent upon the health, weight and goals of the patients. However, each procedure has its own benefits and limitations. Some of the procedures are Laser-assisted, Ultrasound-assisted, and Tumescent Liposuction. 

13. Myth: - All the surgeons can perform the liposuction procedure

Fact: - The success of the liposuction procedure largely depends upon the fact that your surgeon is certified and experienced to perform the techniques of this particular procedure or not. He must be able to produce the results with all the safety measures therefore; you must choose your surgeon wisely. 

14. Myth: - There is no any non-surgical option to liposuction

Fact: - Liposuction is the minimally invasive procedure as very small incisions have to be made during the surgery. Whereas, you can ask for the non-surgical options to your surgeon in case you are not ready for any incisions involving surgery. Though, the amount of removed fat with such procedures will be less than the surgical options. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many myths and misconceptions about liposuction that can lead to confusion and misinformation. While liposuction is a popular and beneficial procedure, it is important for patients to understand the facts about the procedure and to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if it is right for them. By debunking these common myths, patients can make informed decisions about their cosmetic surgery options.