When diet and exercise aren’t cutting it, liposuction can be a great way to eliminate stubborn body fat and contour a desirable shape for your thighs, love handles, belly, and beyond. But many patients wonder just how much fat can be removed during liposuction and why there’s a limit at all.
Today, we’re discussing what you can expect from your lipo procedure and the maximum amount of fat you can lose during a single session.
What to expect from a liposuction procedure
If you’re preparing for your first liposuction treatment, you’ll want to know exactly what to expect. Here are some tips to help you prep for surgery and enjoy a smooth and speedy recovery:
Before your treatment
Before your lipo session, your surgeon will likely require bloodwork to ensure you’re a suitable candidate. Alcohol and tobacco can interfere with the healing process, so you’ll need to stop smoking and drinking ahead of your procedure.
It’s also important to avoid medications that may thin your blood. Have a friend or family member accompany you to your appointment and take you home following the procedure.
During your treatment
Most liposuction treatments begin with general anesthesia. Once the medication takes effect, your surgeon will insert a slender tube into your skin that breaks up and removes targeted fat in the treatment area. It may take 30 minutes to several hours to complete the body augmentation procedure.
Post-operative care
Many people experience pain, swelling, and bruising after liposuction. You may have low energy levels and limited range of motion. Fluid drainage from the incision site is common, and many clients notice uneven fat distribution as their remaining body fat settles back into place.
Most post-op patients see drastic improvements during the first week of recovery, but it can take weeks or months to achieve the ultimate results.
Is there a limit on how much fat can be removed from liposuction?
Safe and effective liposuction isn’t just about removing as much fat as possible. It’s about sculpting a balanced physique. Your surgeon will determine how much fat to remove depending on your goals and desired outcome.
That said, most experts agree that 3 to 4 liters—or 6 to 8 pounds—is the limit. Here are a few things to know about how these numbers are determined and why you can’t just remove all unwanted body fat at once:
What factors affect how much fat can be removed?
Your chosen treatment area, the existing amount of fat, and your skin’s elasticity will all affect how much volume can be removed at one time.
Why is removing too much fat risky?
Removing too much fat during liposuction can increase the risk of dangerous complications, including:
- Blood clots
- Blood loss
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Shock
- Infections
- Embolisms
Additionally, taking out too much volume can leave you with lumps beneath your skin, dimpling, and asymmetrical results.
What determines how much fat can be removed safely?
Overall health, BMI, and density of fat calls are all factors that doctors use to determine good candidates for liposuction. Those desiring more significant weight loss can undergo numerous procedures spaced several months apart. However, patients with a higher BMI may be more likely to experience surgical complications.
Types of liposuction to consider
Cosmetic procedures can make it easier than ever to achieve your dream physique. Here are a few types of liposuction that you might find at your favorite plastic surgery center:
Suction-assisted lipo
Suction-assisted liposuction is the classic technique most of us envision when we think about lipo. It uses a handheld device called a cannula to suck up unwanted fat deposits.
Power-assisted lipo
Also known as vibration-assisted lipo, this method utilizes a cannula that vibrates throughout the procedure to dislodge fat deposits and encourage an even collection of lipids from the treatment area. You can think of it as a turbo-charged version of the classic liposuction procedure most of us are familiar with.
Ultrasound-assisted lipo
Ultrasound-assisted liposuction uses ultrasonic energy to break down fat cells for easy removal, making it a great option for removing higher volumes of fat. It’s popular for areas with more fibrous fat cells or spots that have received lipo before.
Laser-assisted lipo
This technique uses laser energy to destroy and remove fat deposits. It can be less invasive than other procedures and allows for a faster recovery time. It’s often used for small treatment areas rather than large zones. Plus, laser lipolysis is a non-invasive, FDA-approved alternative to eliminate unwanted body fat and help you achieve your goals.
Explore your body contouring options at The Wellness Club!
Many clients find that sculpting their optimal physique requires a holistic approach. At The Wellness Club, we can help you craft the perfect treatment plan to reach your goals. Contact us today or book a consultation to get started!