In the United States, liposuction is among the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures. In spite of its popularity, there are still a lot of misconceptions surrounding it. Here are the usual ones:
1. Liposuction will help a person lose weight.
As a result of liposuction, a person will only lose 2-5 pounds of fat. It’s not a weight loss solution and in fact, you need to be within 30 percent of your ideal BMI to be candidate. Lipo only removes localized fat pockets.
2. Liposuction treats and removes cellulite.
Cellulite happens when subcutaneous fat pushes the tissues underneath skin, causing them to become wrinkled/dimpled. Lipo only removes soft, fatty tissue so the fibrous connecting bands that trigger the appearance of cellulite are not eliminated.
3. Liposuction is not for old men and women.
While it is true that liposuction is usually performed on patients under 65, anyone who is in good health, has been given medical clearance and has skin elasticity may be a candidate for liposuction. A lack of elasticity and firmness may compromise the skin’s ability to adjust to the new contours which is why it’s a requirement before you can get a liposuction.
4. Liposuction is high-risk.
Every surgical procedure can be risky, liposuction included. But there have been new techniques and technologies introduced over the years. And if you have a board certified and highly experienced plastic surgeon by your side, you need not worry about potential dangers.
5. Liposuction can get rid of sagging skin.
Aging can cause sagging skin especially under the chin, neck and arms. In such cases, your doctor may also suggest that you undergo a skin tightening procedure together with liposuction, to prevent loose skin from worsening.
6. Liposuction does not cause any downtime.
Most liposuction procedures are outpatient procedures but there’s still a recovery period needed afterwards. You may experience symptoms like soreness, bruising, and swelling. Take a few days off, and avoid any strenuous physical activity for a few weeks.
7. Liposuction is for women only.
Women and men can benefit from liposuction and it is in fact among the top 5 cosmetic surgeries for men in the previous year. Men usually target chest, love handles and abdomen for their liposuction surgery.
8. Liposuction is the best solution to belly fat.
The one thing people need to understand about liposuction is that it targets subcutaneous fat – the fat above the muscle and below the skin. A protruding abdomen due to fat under the muscle will not be improved with this procedure. You’ll need regular excise and a healthy diet for this to be eliminated.
If you’re interested in getting a liposuction such as Smart Lipo, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon who was a lot of experience in this kind of procedure.
Here’s how the surgical procedure is done:
