Liposuction is essentially the miracle of modern aesthetic medicine, transforming the lives of many happy patients with minimally-invasive, innovative techniques performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. The operating liposuction surgeons are always amazed at how much fat can be permanently and irreversibly removed in one procedure, which can be visualized with the canisters full of fat. Large-volume liposuction can be a life-changing event!

Because of the unique nature of our genes, we are predisposed to store fat in different areas of our bodies. The adipose cells eliminated during liposuction do not regenerate, but any weight gain following the procedure will provide new fat accumulating in those genetically programmed parts, such as arms, thighs, or abdomen. Before diving into the nature of liposuction fat removal, it is essential to understand that incorporating healthy and nutritious eating habits and a regular exercise routine is crucial to support the longevity of your final effect. After all, investing time, energy, and financial resources to obtain a beautiful silhouette should be good enough motivators to ensure your fat removal stays a success. A few lifestyle changes can help you reach your desired body shape after the liposuction surgery by building muscle and burning visceral fat.

HOW MUCH FAT CAN BE EXTRACTED?

Believe it or not, but there are certain limits pertaining to the amount of fat removal that can occur during a single liposuction procedure, and those vary from state to state across the country. Although the similar approach of five liters is generally true for most regions nationwide, including NYC, individual states minimize the amount of fat that can be removed in one sitting, such as Florida with only 3.5 liters per session. 

Large volume liposuction requires following a precise safety protocol to provide the best, safest surgical procedure for every patient. These practices may include obtaining a medical clearance from your primary care physician, which will give your board-certified plastic surgeon validation that you are medically cleared for the procedure. The risk increases if your BMI, or body mass index, is above 30 and you have uncontrolled underlying conditions such as diabetes. States with strict laws regarding cosmetic procedures often require a hospital setting with an overnight stay for patients seeking large volume liposuction. Typically, five liters of fat is sufficient enough to achieve a spectacular body contour, and more than that can lead to various potential complications. After all, your safety is always our utmost priority. The 5-liter large volume liposuction is sufficient for most patients to receive the body contours they desire.

WHO IS AN IDEAL CANDIDATE FOR LIPOSUCTION?

As mentioned before, and often repeated in our practice, your health is the most critical aspect in the qualification process for any cosmetic procedures. Liposuction can be safely performed in individuals who are at or close to their goal weight, and preferably nonsmoking since tobacco consumption slows down the healing process and may lead to post-operative complications. A board-certified plastic surgeon will review any health and safety concerns prior to the surgical procedure to ensure that your health is not at risk while removing excess fat. 

Ideally, a candidate for liposuction has stubborn subcutaneous fat – the pinchable folds between muscle and skin – that is often resistant to diet and exercise. Visceral fat cells cannot be sucked out with liposuction and can only be eliminated with proper nutrition and physical activity.

Your skin’s properties also play a role in the final outcome of liposuction. If you have skin with good elasticity, you most certainly can benefit from the most outstanding results liposuction can offer. Loose excess skin or cellulite can contribute to the formation of wrinkles and unevenness.

CAN LIPOSUCTION HELP WITH WEIGHT LOSS?

Although liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure but a fat reduction treatment, you will experience a loss of inches and a few pounds of weight drop due to the amount of fat removed. However, the long-term benefits of changing mindset following liposuction highly contribute to the weight loss regimen of many men and women. 

In many cases, the act of performing large-volume liposuction surgery promotes healthy habits. Once a board-certified plastic surgeon commits to removing the excess fat, many individuals are inclined to take on healthier habits such as proper nutrition, meditation, and regular exercise. The more active and healthy patients are, the faster they can burn remaining fat cells and achieve the maximum amount of benefit for their large-volume liposuction. In contrast, liposuction patients who do not adhere to recommendations may continue to gain weight and suffer from excess skin.

WHAT IS THE RECOVERY PROCESS?

Depending on many factors, including your health, age, and your body’s ability to heal, the large-volume liposuction recovery varies from patient to patient. However, liposuction is one of the most minimally-invasive cosmetic procedures available today. Most patients can resume all normal activities after 2-4 weeks and return to work and social life within the next few days following the procedure. The treatment area and the amount of fat removed may influence the post-op care and recovery for large-volume liposuction surgery.

You will receive detailed instructions and guidelines regarding the after-care, and following them will ensure your safety, comfort, and ultimately the outcome of the plastic surgery procedure. After the procedure, you should stay hydrated at all times and get the rest your body needs to fully and quickly recover. Swelling and bruising are the most common side effects of liposuction, which will subside with time. Wearing a specialized compression garment can speed regeneration and help in skin tightening around the lower abdomen. This will assist with the best results and reduce loose skin after your liposuction procedure.

THE BOTTOM LINE

When seeking body enhancement procedures, you should always try to visualize realistic expectations. Many professional and reputable clinics will help you establish a pragmatic vision regarding the potential outcome of your large-volume liposuction procedure. Liposuction is a very effective and relatively safe procedure that can transform your life, boost your confidence, and help you enjoy every moment without feeling insecure about certain aspects of your body. Most liposuction patients are blown away by the result a single procedure and some lifestyle changes can have. 

Feel free to read our article on: Can You Get a Flat Stomach with Liposuction?