Understanding Liposuction: Myths vs Facts

• 22 March 2024
• MCC Marketing

Last updated on July 23, 2024

Are you finally ready to get rid of that lower bulge or stubborn pouch for that lean, toned look? liposuction can help remove those stubborn fat deposits that don’t budge with exercise or diet. It’s a popular solution to contour the body and get closer to your ideal body weight and figure. However, regardless of the popularity of liposuction as a fat removal technique, it’s still surrounded by a plethora of misinformation and myths, which can sometimes dissuade potential patients. In this blog, we will dispel the myths and give you the liposuction facts so that you can make an informed decision about your body. Let’s begin!

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a surgical procedure aimed at sculpting and refining specific body areas by eliminating excess fat deposits. It involves creating small incisions through which a slender tube, called a cannula, is inserted to suction out unwanted fat. Traditionally referred to as surgical or traditional liposuction, this procedure offers a surgical approach to fat reduction and can target various areas, including the abdomen, arms, thighs, buttocks, and neck. 

Different liposuction techniques range from conventional approaches, including suction and power-assisted liposuction for addressing larger fat deposits, to laser-assisted methods tailored for contouring and targeting specific areas of excess fat. The surgical approach remains the most frequent because of its results and the ability to remove larger amounts of fat deposits from various body areas. 

Liposuction usually takes several hours, depending on how much fat is being removed. It’s done under anaesthesia and requires at least six weeks of recovery time as well as proper aftercare. The results show one to three months after surgery when the treated area begins to heal and take shape. 

As liposuction is an invasive surgery, it requires extensive consultation, planning and preparation before and adequate healing and recovery after. Discuss your concerns and get information on the surgery to ensure you’re aware of the risks and committed to following post-operative care for optimal healing and results.

Common Liposuction Myths vs Facts

Let’s go into the most common myths around liposuction, separating fact from hearsay and get a better understanding:

MYTH: Liposuction is a Weight Loss Method

One of the most well-known liposuction myths is that it’s a procedure to lose weight for people who are obese or that the surgery can help you lose weight. This is incorrect.

FACT: or body liposuction is not a weight loss method. It is intended for body contouring and targeting stubborn fat deposits resistant to diet and exercise. It’s recommended for people who want to remove localised fat deposits resistant to the traditional methods. Candidates for liposuction should be near their ideal body weight and in good health. The procedure is to help them get closer to their body goals and must be maintained after a balanced diet and exercise. 

MYTH: You Cannot Gain Weight After Liposuction

FACT: Even though liposuction permanently removes the fat cells from the or the area treated, if you don’t maintain your weight, the fat cells around the can expand. You may also gain weight in other areas, which can make your figure look disproportionate. 

MYTH: Liposuction Can Improve Cellulite 

FACT: Liposuction may improve the appearance of cellulite in some cases, but it is not specifically designed to treat cellulite. Other treatments, such as cellulite reduction therapies, may be more effective for addressing cellulite.

MYTH: Liposuction Can Tighten Loose Skin

FACT: Liposuction can only remove excess fat deposits, not tighten loose or sagging skin. Where large amounts of fat are removed from the stomach, a tummy tuck might be needed to remove the loose skin and tighten the underlying tissues to create a smoother and firmer appearance

MYTH: Liposuction Leaves Visible Scars 

FACT: Liposuction involves small incisions through which a thin tube called a cannula is inserted to suction out fat. These incisions are typically small and strategically placed so that patients have minimal scarring. 

MYTH: Liposuction Provides Immediate Results 

FACT: Even when the fat is removed during the liposuction surgery, it takes some time for the results to become apparent. Your body needs time to heal, the fluids to drain, and the swelling to go down. Compression garments must be worn for a couple of weeks after surgery to help shape the body, smooth the treated area and minimise the swellings. Results start becoming visible after a month and may take 3 months to show fully.

MYTH: Liposuction is Very Painful

FACT: While liposuction is a surgical procedure that may involve some discomfort, it is performed under anaesthesia to ensure your comfort and help with the pain. You may experience soreness, swelling, and bruising after surgery, but these symptoms can be managed with medications. 

MYTH: Liposuction is an Easy Alternative to Losing Tummy Fat

FACT: Liposuction can only suction out subcutaneous fat, which is the fat stored beneath the skin but above the abdominal muscles. It cannot remove visceral fat, which is deep under the stomach muscles and around the internal organs. 

It’s important to understand that liposuction is an invasive surgical procedure, and your body will need time to heal and regain its strength. Only 4 to 5 lbs of fat can be safely removed with liposuction at one time. It’s also recommended to be within 30% of your ideal body weight before considering liposuction. Once the fat cells are permanently removed from your body, you must maintain your figure with a healthy diet and an active lifestyle. 

Get Your Ideal Figure with Liposuction!

Ready to take the next step to get that flat and toned stomach? Find out more about liposuction and other surgical cosmetic procedures with My Cosmetic Clinic. We offer personalised consultations, providing full insights into the most suitable option for your lifestyle, taking into account your body shape and goals. Our supportive team is there for you at every stage of your treatment, ensuring a smooth journey and the best possible results. Give us a call to book your consultation today.