Weight Gain After Liposuction: Will the Fat Come Back?

Posted May 25, 2020 in Liposuction

2 Min Read: 

Suction assisted lipectomy —or liposuction—removes fatty deposits from unwanted locations on the body. These treatments will have long-term effects; however, weight loss alone is not permanent without lifestyle modifications. While the removed fat cells will not grow back, fat cells in other areas of the body may increase in size. This means that if a patient does not eat sensibly, fat may appear to ‘move’ to other non-treated locations on your body.

Remember, liposuction is not a weight-loss treatment, and is not a suitable substitute for diet and exercise. 

What Is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that is used to eliminate fat cells. Liposuction can only target subcutaneous fat deposits, that is the fat between skin and the underlying muscle. Fat deposits around internal organs, known as visceral fat, cannot be treated with liposuction.

The patient is usually under general anesthesia during liposuction. An incision is made near the targeted fat deposits and a small tube/curette is inserted to break off and suck out excess fat cells.

This removed material can be used for other procedures, such as a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL).

Do Fat Cells Grow Back After Liposuction?

When fat is removed by liposuction, the fat cells and deposits are gone for good (you do not create new fat cells after the age of 18). However, if you gain significant weight during or after your recovery, the remaining fat cells can enlarge in both the treated areas and elsewhere on the body—especially in the untreated areas where the number of fat calls has not been reduced.

Can I Gain Weight After Liposuction?

The results of your liposuction will not immediately vanish if you gain a few pounds; however, weight gain is still possible after body contouring surgery. The areas where liposuction was performed will accumulate fat slower compared to untreated areas, but they are not immune.

Can I Have Liposuction More Than Once?

A second liposuction procedure is possible if you develop additional fatty deposits. However, because liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure, it is suggested that you get as close as you can to your final desired weight before undergoing a second liposuction treatment.

How Do I Prevent Fat After Liposuction?

To prevent the return of fat, we suggest a series of lifestyle changes, including some of the following.

1. Maintain a healthy diet, one that focuses on protein and fresh fruits and vegetables.
2. Arrange your life to accommodate a series of smaller meals with limited fats and sugars.
3. Maintain hydration, especially when exercising or living in hot or dry environments.
4. Exercise regularly, especially high-cardio exercises that burn calories and improve muscle tone.
5. Consult your surgeon about more personalized after-care suggestions.

Interested in Learning More?

Feel free to contact Dr. Boyd or call our office at (310) 597-4734 if you want to schedule a consultation to discuss liposuction, post-treatment recovery, or other cosmetic surgeries available in Palos Verdes, California.