Will My Weight Re-Distribute After Liposuction?

Liposuction targets localized fat deposits that just don’t seem to go away on their own. These areas could be caused by genetics, so it sometimes can be hard to get rid of them completely.

Weight Redistribution

Everyone is born with a fixed number of fat cells. If you gain weight, they enlarge, and if you lose weight, they shrink. Liposuction permanently reduces the number of fat cells in a treated area. If you gain weight after liposuction, however, the non-treated areas will become larger. The remaining fat cells in the treated area can enlarge, but they will not multiply.

For example, let’s say that you tend to hold weight in your abdomen. You opt to have the procedure on your abdomen but end up gaining weight after your procedure. Most of the weight gain will go to other areas, such as your thighs and buttocks. However, the remaining fat cells in your abdomen will also respond to the weight gain by getting bigger.

This is why plastic surgeons emphasize that liposuction is not akin to weight loss surgery. The surgical procedure should only be used to reshape a problem area (e.g., abdomen, thighs, buttocks) that is disproportionately larger to the rest of the body. In addition, liposuction should only be performed on individuals that can control their weight and follow healthy lifestyle habits. Think of the operation as a way to fine-tune a specific area of the body, instead of causing overall weight loss.

Maintaining Results Long-Term

The best way to enjoy liposuction results long-term and avoid weight redistribution is to maintain your immediate postoperative weight. Exercising regularly and fueling your body with nutritious, well-balanced meals will help stave off weight gain. Many people find that after the procedure, they have extra motivation to stay in shape. After seeing the beautiful results of treatment, you are even more likely to eat right and exercise regularly.

O’Neill Plastic Surgery

Liposuction can be a good choice for people trying to get rid of that pesky area of fat that won’t seem to go away with diet and exercise. Here at O’Neill Plastic Surgery, we want you to look and feel your best. If fat is affecting your daily life, you may want to consider liposuction. For any questions about the removal or reduction of fat through liposuction, call (843) 881-2130 or contact us online. 

A picture of Patrick J. O’Neill, MD wearing his doctor attire.

About the Author

Upon completing medical school at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC, Dr. O’Neill completed nine years of residency training. These nine years included a full general surgery and a plastic surgery residency, both at the Medical University of South Carolina, and a hand and microsurgery fellowship at the Kleinert Institute for Hand and Microsurgery. Dr. O’Neill has extensive certifications, training, skills, and knowledge that make him a successful physician who can carry out your next plastic surgery procedure. His expertise and technique will result in the beautiful and natural look you desire post surgery.

Board Certified:
American Board of Surgery
American Board of Plastic Surgery
Sub-Certification in Hand and Microsurgery

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