Liposuction is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures in the UK and with its popularity come repeated misconceptions.
The procedure removes deposits of fat cells around the body. The focus is usually areas that won’t respond to traditional means of weight loss such as diet and exercise.
Myth: Since liposuction removes fat, is it a quick and good way to reduce body weight.
Truth: No, liposuction is not a method to lose weight fast. The ideal liposuction patient is already almost at their target weight and has a few trouble areas that aren’t slimming down through natural methods. In fact liposuction should be considered a body contouring rather than weight loss procedure.
Myth: Liposuction is a temporary solution. The fat will come back somewhere else.
Truth: Liposuction doesn’t just remove fat, it removes fat cells. These fat cells do not get replaced, meaning the body will keep the same shape. This is why it is important that the ideal candidate is someone who has reached almost their target weight before having liposuction and continues to maintain this with a healthy lifestyle. Any new weight gain will be distributed evenly and not concentrated in areas that have not received treatment.
Myth: Liposuction is not surgery.
Truth: Liposuction is a surgical procedure. In the majority of cases it is performed in the operating theatre under aseptic conditions and some form of anaesthetic is required (either general anaesthetic or a combination of local anaesthetic and sedation). It leaves very small scars on the skin and a recovery period is required.
Myth: The procedure treats cellulite.
Truth: Cellulite appears because of the fat that is right below the skin. It usually looks uneven and bumpy because the fat is pushing through the connective tissue. Liposuction cannot remove cellulite but it can help it become less visible.
As with any type of cosmetic procedure it is very important that the treatment goals and expectations from the procedure are discussed thoroughly with your surgeon before going ahead. Factors such as the elasticity and the condition of the overlying skin, overall weight changes in recent years, plans for future pregnancies must be considered before deciding that liposuction is the right treatment for you.
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