Liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures, yet myths about it abound. From misconceptions about weight loss to misunderstandings about recovery, these myths often lead patients astray. In a recent episode of Three Plastic Surgeons and a Microphone, I joined Dr. Sam Rhee from Paramus, NJ, and Dr. Lawrence Tong from Toronto, Canada, to tackle some of the most persistent liposuction myths. Here’s a breakdown of what we discussed, along with my expert insights.
Myth 1: Liposuction Is a Weight Loss Procedure
One of the most pervasive myths about liposuction is that it’s designed for weight loss. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Liposuction is a body contouring procedure, not a solution for significant weight reduction.
As Dr. Tong pointed out during the podcast, patients often expect to lose 15 pounds or more from liposuction. While the fat removed can lead to a noticeable change in shape, the actual weight loss is minimal. Liposuction targets specific problem areas—like the abdomen, thighs, or arms—where stubborn fat remains despite diet and exercise.
For best results, patients should already be close to their ideal weight. It’s about sculpting and fine-tuning the body, not dropping dress sizes or shedding pounds overnight.
Myth 2: Liposuction Can Replace a Tummy Tuck
After pregnancy or significant weight loss, many patients come to me hoping that liposuction can address loose skin and stretched abdominal muscles. Unfortunately, liposuction alone cannot deliver the same results as a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty).
During the podcast, I shared my experience with patients who insist on liposuction despite having clear signs of abdominal wall laxity and poor skin elasticity. While they may not want the scar associated with a tummy tuck, liposuction in these cases often leads to unsatisfactory outcomes, such as uneven contours or excess sagging skin.
In these situations, a tummy tuck is the better option because it removes excess skin and repairs separated abdominal muscles. Liposuction can be an excellent complement to a tummy tuck, but it’s not a substitute for it.
Myth 3: Liposuction Prevents Fat from Returning
A common misconception is that once fat is removed via liposuction, it’s gone for good. While it’s true that the removed fat cells won’t regenerate, the remaining fat cells can still expand if you gain weight.
Fat distribution after liposuction varies. If you gain weight post-surgery, fat may appear in untreated areas or even in the treated areas where fat cells remain. For example, visceral fat (the fat around internal organs) in the abdomen cannot be addressed with liposuction and can increase if lifestyle habits don’t change.
Liposuction is not a “get out of jail free” card—it requires ongoing commitment to a healthy lifestyle to maintain results.
Myth 4: Liposuction Results Are Immediate
Patients often expect to walk out of the operating room with their dream body. The truth? It takes time to see the final results.
After liposuction, swelling is a natural part of the healing process and can last for several weeks or even months. Compression garments, which I recommend wearing for at least six weeks, help manage swelling and support the skin as it adjusts to its new contours.
Lymphatic massage, another topic we debated on the podcast, can aid in reducing swelling and speeding up recovery. While I believe it can improve results, especially for patients with compromised skin elasticity, my colleagues had differing opinions. Regardless, patience is key—results continue to improve over time.
Myth 5: There’s No Limit to How Much Fat Can Be Removed
Some patients assume liposuction can remove unlimited amounts of fat in a single session. However, safety guidelines set by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons recommend removing no more than 5 liters of aspirate (a mix of fat, blood, and fluids) during one procedure.
Removing excessive amounts of fat can lead to significant blood loss, electrolyte imbalances, and other complications. For larger-volume liposuction, patients may need to stage the procedure over multiple sessions.
It’s also important to note that not every area of the body is suitable for liposuction. For example, while areas like the abdomen, thighs, and arms are common targets, regions like the forearms or spine are not amenable to this procedure.
Myth 6: Liposuction Isn’t “Real” Surgery
Because liposuction involves small incisions, some people think it’s a minor procedure with minimal risks. However, liposuction is still a surgical operation that carries potential complications, such as infection, contour irregularities, and skin laxity.
Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience is crucial. During our podcast, we emphasized the importance of patient education and setting realistic expectations for both the procedure and recovery process.
Myth 7: Awake Liposuction Is Just as Effective
Awake liposuction, where the patient remains conscious with minimal sedation, is becoming more common. While this approach may work for small areas like the neck or chin, it’s not ideal for larger-volume liposuction.
When patients are awake, surgeons must work more slowly to avoid causing discomfort, which limits how aggressive they can be. For larger areas, general anesthesia allows for more comprehensive fat removal and a more precise, sculpted result.
Myth 8: Compression Garments and Massage Aren’t Necessary
Compression garments and lymphatic massages are essential parts of the recovery process. These tools help reduce swelling, improve circulation, and support the skin as it heals.
For patients with good skin elasticity, these measures may not be as critical. However, for those with mild laxity or stretch marks, they can make a noticeable difference in the final result. In my practice, I often recommend wearing compression garments for up to six months to ensure the best outcome.
Myth 9: Fat Grafting Compromises Liposuction Results
Fat grafting, often used for Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs) or breast augmentation, can be safely combined with liposuction. While some worry that technologies like VASER or power-assisted liposuction may damage fat cells, research shows that fat harvested using these methods remains viable for transfer.
That said, not all the transferred fat will survive. On average, patients can expect 50-60% of the fat to persist long-term, with results varying based on the area and injection technique.
Myth 10: Liposuction Can Be Done Anywhere
Finally, some patients believe liposuction can be performed on any part of the body. While areas like the abdomen, thighs, and flanks are common, regions like the ankles or knees require careful evaluation. As Dr. Tong noted, liposuction of the lower legs can yield excellent results in the right patient, but recovery may involve prolonged swelling.
Final Thoughts
Liposuction is a transformative procedure, but understanding its limitations and risks is essential for achieving the best results. As a board-certified plastic surgeon in Dallas, I’m committed to providing honest, thorough consultations to help patients choose the right procedure for their needs.
To hear more about these myths and our insights, check out the full podcast episode, S05E102: Debunking Common Liposuction Myths, where I dive deeper into these topics with my colleagues. [Link to podcast episode]
If you’re considering liposuction or have questions about body contouring, feel free to reach out to my office. Let’s work together to achieve your aesthetic goals.