As a cosmetic surgery expert, I have seen many patients come to me with the desire to undergo liposuction. However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for this procedure. Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat from specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, and arms. It is not a weight-loss method and should not be seen as a solution for obesity.
In this article, I will discuss who should not get liposuction and why.
Who is Not a Good Candidate for Liposuction?
In order to undergo liposuction, you must be in good health and not have any underlying medical conditions that could make the surgery difficult. These may include blood flow problems, coronary artery disease, diabetes, or a weak immune system. It is important to disclose your medical history to your surgeon before considering liposuction. The Royal College of Surgeons provides valuable information and advice on what to do if things go wrong with cosmetic surgery. It is crucial to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon who can assess your health and determine if you are a suitable candidate for liposuction.Obesity and Liposuction
One of the most common misconceptions about liposuction is that it is a treatment for obesity.This is not true. Liposuction is only suitable for patients who are close to their ideal body weight and have stubborn pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise. Overweight or obese patients should consider losing weight through healthy lifestyle changes before considering liposuction. This will not only improve their overall health but also ensure better results from the procedure. Patients with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 40 may be better suited for weight-loss surgery, such as gastric sleeve or gastric bypass surgery. It is important to note that liposuction is not a solution for weight loss.
In fact, gaining weight after liposuction can compromise the results of the procedure. Patients who are still in the process of losing weight should wait until they have reached a stable weight before considering liposuction.
Sagging Skin and Liposuction
Another important factor to consider is the quality of your skin. As we age, our skin loses its firmness and elasticity, making it difficult for it to bounce back after a liposuction procedure. Poor skin quality is one of the main contraindications for liposuction.If you have loose or sagging skin, you may not be a suitable candidate for this procedure. In such cases, it is recommended to undergo a procedure to remove excess skin, such as a tummy tuck, before considering liposuction. This will ensure better results and prevent any complications.
Weight Fluctuations and Liposuction
If you are currently trying to lose weight, you may not need liposuction. It is important to remember that liposuction is not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. If you are able to achieve your desired body weight through diet and exercise, you may not need liposuction. However, if you have tried to change your lifestyle and have not seen significant results in certain areas of your body, then liposuction may be an option for you.It is important to maintain a stable weight after the procedure to ensure long-term results.
The Different Techniques of Liposuction
There are several techniques used for liposuction, but they all involve the use of a thin tube, called a cannula, connected to a vacuum to remove fat from the body. The ideal candidate for liposuction should be within 30% of their ideal body weight. This ensures that the results of the procedure are more noticeable and long-lasting. It is important to have realistic expectations when considering liposuction. This procedure is not a solution for weight loss or a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.It is meant to target specific areas of the body that are resistant to diet and exercise.
