Debunking Myths about Liposuction

By Dr. Karishma Kagodu, MBBS, MS, MCh, Plastic Surgery and the founder of Karishma Aesthetics

Liposuction is not a weight loss alternative but an effective body sculpting technique that works on unwanted fat deposits that are restricted to respond through diet and exercise. However, liposuction has always been a top cosmetic procedure worldwide to achieve washboard abs in men and an hourglass profile for women, especially with high-def 4D VASER. But as we all know; popularity often increases the number of myths. And liposuction is no exception.

Myth 1: Liposuction is a weight loss procedure.

Liposuction does not cause any effect in the weight loss context, as it is not a weight loss alternative but the best method of body contouring, removing unwanted fat from the localized body areas. So, if a patient wants to lose significant weight, bariatric surgery is the option. Since the fat removed from targeted areas cannot multiply but can increase in size, the chances of gaining fat in the treated areas are much less. Still, it is advisable to maintain a healthy lifestyle followed by diet and exercise to enjoy the long-lasting contouring effect. 

Myth 2: Fat deposits will recur after liposuction.

Liposuction is ‘permanent,’ as once the fat cells are sanctioned out, they will not grow back. However, there will still be some remaining fat cells that can grow in size and expand the area if one’s calorie intact is excessive. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen is the best way to prevent this.

Myth 3: Liposuction can eliminate cellulite. 

Liposuction only works on stubborn fat deposited in the localized areas of the body but does not improve the appearance of cellulite. Unlike deposited fat in the localized areas, cellulites are fibrous bands of connective tissue. Fat beneath the skin presses against the connective tissue, causing a dimpled appearance on your skin called cellulite. So, if a patient has cellulite concerns, different treatment options are available, so in-person consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is inevitable. 

Myth 4: You will Need Significant Downtime After Your Liposuction Procedure.

Postponing strenuous activities for at least 2-4 weeks, depending on the extent  of liposuction surgery, is mandatory to heal smoothly. However, extensive downtime is not the case now with advanced liposuction techniques, such as VASER (ultrasound lipo) or tumescent liposuction. We offer these innovative techniques to treat our patients more effectively by precisely removing fat without a lengthy recovery or healing time, making the procedure more relevant in the context of a safer, easier, and quicker downtime, as well as the desired sculpting outcomes. 

Myth 5: Liposuction is dangerous and can cause fatal risks. 

While every surgical procedure carries some risks or discomforts, liposuction is also not an exception; life-threatening risks are rare. Liposuction is a sophisticated procedure, especially when the technique is 

advanced, such as VASER 4D high-definition (ultrasonic) liposuction, giving desired sculpting and skin tightening benefits. Thus, it is wise to choose only a board-certified, expert plastic surgeon to avoid the chances of mishappening. Moreover, if a patient diligently follows the suggested post-op guidelines, the 

the procedure is incredibly safe, and the results are proven as any other surgical procedure.