Liposuction is one of the most effective ways to remove stubborn fat that doesn’t respond to diet and exercise—but it is not a weight loss procedure. So, if you’re wondering how much fat can be removed with liposuction, you should be aware that while surgeons can safely remove up to 5 liters (about 10 to 12 pounds) of fat per session, the goal of the surgery is to refine your figure, not reduce it to its smallest possible size.
If you’re considering liposuction, you likely have plenty of questions about the results, recovery, and long-term effects of the procedure. Below, we answer some of the most common liposuction questions to help you understand what to expect.
Will My Stomach Sag After Liposuction?
Liposuction removes fat, but does not tighten loose skin. If your skin has good elasticity, it will gradually contract after the procedure. However, if you have significant skin laxity, you may notice some sagging afterward. In that case, combining liposuction with a surgical procedure, such as a tummy tuck, or a nonsurgical skin-tightening procedure may be a better option.
Does Liposuction Leave Scars?
Liposuction requires small incisions for the cannula (the thin tube used to remove the fat), which leaves equally small scars once they heal. These scars are usually less than a quarter-inch long and are placed in discreet areas, so they are barely noticeable. You can learn about liposuction incision care and recovery in our related blog post.
Does Fat Come Back After Liposuction?
Liposuction permanently removes the fat cells from the treated areas. However, if you gain weight, the remaining fat cells in your body can expand. Eventually, the body may create new fat cells, but they are typically distributed more evenly throughout the body. Maintaining a stable weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise helps preserve your results.
Does Liposuction Get Rid of Cellulite?
No. Liposuction is not a cellulite treatment. While it removes fat, liposuction doesn’t affect the fibrous bands under the skin that cause the dimpled appearance of cellulite. Other treatments, such as Aveli™, specifically target the causes of cellulite for smoother skin.
Does Liposuction Remove Visceral Fat?
No. Liposuction only removes subcutaneous fat—the fat located just beneath the skin. Visceral fat, which surrounds the internal organs, can only be reduced through lifestyle changes like diet and exercise.
How Much Weight Do You Lose With Liposuction?
Since liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure, most patients lose only a few pounds afterward, as fat is less dense than muscle. However, the loss in volume can be significant, and many patients notice a reduction of 1 to 2 clothing sizes, as their bodies fit better in pants and dresses
How Often Can You Get Liposuction?
While there’s no strict limit, most plastic surgeons recommend spacing treatments at least 6 months apart to allow for complete healing. However, multiple sessions are rarely needed in the same area when the procedure is performed correctly the first time.
Will Lumps After Liposuction Go Away?
Post-surgical swelling and firmness are normal. Lumps usually resolve within a few months as the body heals, but lymphatic massage may help speed up the process.
Get Started With Liposuction
If you want to learn more about your body contouring options, please request a consultation or call The Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery at 713-538-2319 to get started.