A highly effective FDA-approved procedure, liposuction is a fat removal procedure that helps patients remove unwanted fat and sculpt their bodies into their ideal shape. At Neaman Plastic Surgery, we perform liposuction procedures to help our patients reach an elevated level of self-confidence. As with any surgical procedure, patients are naturally curious about the question: How long does liposuction last?
HOW LONG DO THE RESULTS OF LIPOSUCTION LAST?
In light of the unique nature of fat cells, the results from liposuction procedures are considered to be permanent. That said, one must have a good understanding of what fat cells are and how they work in order to get an idea of how long their results will last.
THE BASICS OF FAT CELLS
When wondering how long does liposuction last, it’s important to understand the basic behind fat cells first. Fat cells are different from other types of cells in the body. Basically, every type of cell in the body can be regenerated, except fat cells. The human body loses the ability to produce fat cells around the age of 25. As such, patients who undergo a liposuction procedure past the age of 25 can rest assured that the area will never be what it was before.
GENERAL THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT LIPOSUCTION RESULTS
While the body will not reinstate any of the fat cells that are removed during the procedure, liposuction treatments will not remove all of the fat cells in the targeted area. It effectively only removes about 20 to 80 percent of fat cells in the treatment site, depending on how much subcutaneous fat there is. Whatever subcutaneous fat remains can still expand outward and utilize energy.
WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO PRESERVE THE RESULTS LONG-TERM?
As with any surgical procedure, the benefits of liposuction will require a healthy lifestyle in order to keep them sharp over time. For example, patients should focus on eating a balanced diet that is low in potential allergens (gluten, sugar, dairy) and high in nutrients. Beyond that, eating reasonably-sized portions can help ensure that the patient does not exceed their calorie needs. As liposuction has no effect on one’s genetics, it is safe to assume that any future weight gains will develop in the same areas that they did before.
As such, patients can help preserve their results by simply maintaining a stable weight. This requires that patients eat only as much as they need to hit their calorie requirement and not go beyond it. Patients who implement an exercise regimen alongside their healthy diet will have the best chance of burning off any unnecessary calories.
Some good exercises to incorporate into one’s routine include:
Running
It goes without saying that running is one of the best forms of cardio there is. It’s also a great way for liposuction patients to maintain their new contours. What makes it so popular is that it can be done basically anywhere. There’s also the fact that no expensive exercise equipment or gym memberships are required. Patients should aim to get at least 75 minutes of running in every week. Those who are looking to lose a significant amount of weight should double their workout time in order to hit their goal.
Weight Lifting
Lifting weights is another great workout option for those looking to preserve their results. It is important, however, that the weight lifting regimen be focused on building muscle mass and not simply having a high-intensity workout, as some often use it. There is a direct relationship between muscle building and fat burning. Focusing on macro exercises (bench press, shoulder press, deadlift, etc) is the best way to build muscle fast.
Rowing
Rowing is another great exercise for those looking to maintain the effects of liposuction. Like macro weight lifting exercises, rowing requires the use of multiple muscles in the body, making it a formidable way to increase muscle strength while simultaneously building muscle mass. Patients also tout them for enabling them to get their heart rate up without putting too much pressure on their joints. Beyond that, indoor rowing machines are affordable and can be used in the home. They can also be found at most gyms.
Riding a bike
Like running, cycling is another great, simple way to get in shape. Depending on the rate at which one rides a bike, this exercise should be done anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes a day for 5 days out of the week. As with the other exercises, the amount of time and level of intensity required for cycling really depends on the patients’ goals (whether they are trying to lose weight or just maintain it).
Swimming
Swimming is perhaps the best exercise option for those who have joint problems. This is simply due to the fact that it is non-impact (your body doesn’t make contact with any surfaces). Swimming is also a superb form of cardio because it utilizes most of the muscles in your body. Patients who are looking to burn a lot of calories fast can accomplish this with a daily swim.
WHEN WILL THE RESULTS BE NOTICEABLE?
The results from liposuction are usually perceivable somewhere between 1 to 3 months following the procedure. Patients can expedite this process by following all post-procedural instructions carefully and not deviating from them.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING THE RECOVERY PROCESS?
Like any other procedure, patients tend to feel very exhausted following a liposuction treatment. This is mostly due to the effects of anesthesia, which usually fade away by the end of the day. That said, some patients may feel tired for several days.
WHY CHOOSE NEAMAN PLASTIC SURGERY?
At Neaman Plastic Surgery, we hand-select our practitioners and create highly innovative procedures that ensure every patient achieves their ideal look. Our belief is that educating patients on their upcoming procedures is the best way to ensure a confident outlook and satisfactory results, and what better way than answering questions like, “How long does Liposuction last?” Our practitioners strive to provide only the best in care, always listening to our patients early on so that we can curate a treatment plan that is individualized for them. Call us today to set up a private consultation and learn more about our liposuction procedures.