Liposuction is among the most requested cosmetic plastic surgeries available. However, for prospective candidates, it may also be the most misunderstood. If you're considering liposuction, make sure the decision is based on the facts. Learn more about liposuction and get acquainted with common misconceptions.

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is the surgical removal of fat cells from targeted areas of the body. It can be performed in many locations, most commonly the abdomen, hips, thighs and buttocks. Liposuction is often combined with other plastic surgery procedures, such as facial plastic surgery or abdominoplasty, for enhanced results.

There are a few different liposuction procedures, each with the same goal in mind. Tumescent liposuction is widely recommended by most plastic surgeons. It resembles the original method, only it is safer and more successful.

During tumescent liposuction, a saline solution with anesthesia, epinephrine and other medication is injected into the targeted area of the body. The solution eases the removal of fat and minimizes bleeding. The fat is removed through a surgical tube, called a cannula.

Other types of cosmetic liposuction surgery include power assisted, ultrasonic and laser liposuction. Each is accompanied by its own set of benefits and limitations. Be sure to ask your doctor about the different procedures.

Common Misconceptions About Liposuction: Can I Accumulate More Fat After Liposuction?

Liposuction rids the body of some fat cells and you never accumulate more than are already present in the body. However, this does not spare you from potential weight gain. Controlled eating habits and regular exercise are essential to maintaining the benefits of liposuction. If you start to gain weight, it can show up in treated and untreated areas of the body.

Common Misconceptions About Liposuction and Weight Loss

Liposuction is not a substitute for proper diet and exercise. Candidates for liposuction should be close to his or her ideal weight, with stubborn fat deposits that are not responding to tried and true methods. Liposuction is best understood as a body contouring procedure, rather than a weight loss tool. Patients will lose some weight, but the fat doesn't weigh that much to begin with.

Common Misconceptions About Liposuction and Cellulite

Connective tissues are located directly below the skin. They attach to and shape fat. When connective tissues become weak, the result is cellulite. Liposuction rids the body of fat, not cellulite. In fact, it can make cellulite look worse.

Common Misconceptions About and Liposuction and Contouring

Liposuction can remove the fat cells, but it can't treat loose skin and muscles. If you're looking to tighten the skin, it may be necessary to combine liposuction with another plastic surgery procedure, such as a tummy tuck. A tummy tuck can reshape the muscles and remove excess skin.

Common Misconceptions About Liposuction: Results

You will not notice liposuction results immediately. At first, many patients actually experience weight gain because of fluid retention. Liposuction yields gradual results, from several weeks up to four months.

Schedule a Consultation With a Qualified Cosmetic Surgeon

Meet with an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options for liposuction. Describe your dissatisfaction and expected results. The doctor will conduct a medical examination and evaluate your risk prior to the procedure. For more information about liposuction, or for help finding a qualified surgeon, visit DocShop.com.