Often viewed as a “quick-fix,” I like to take a different approach to plastic surgery with my patients. Instead of only accentuating their bodies, I also like to educate them on health and wellness because overall health is a major factor in healing. Plus, like I frequently explain to patients, you can eat your way out of any liposuction results. That’s why I found the recent study highlighted in the New York Times about fat returning after liposuction surgery so interesting.
Doctors Teri L. Hernandez and Robert H. Eckel of the University of Colorado conducted a study to determine whether or not fat returns after liposuction surgery, and if so, where it returns. With this type of cosmetic surgery, researchers randomly chose non-obese women with small amounts of excess fat in areas such as the thighs and lower abdomen. After the study was complete, the women were able to have more liposuction at a reduced rate if they desired it. In a year, they determined that the fat did return,; however, it returned to other areas like the upper abdomen, arms and triceps. The researchers in this particular study believe that the fat did not return to the areas sculpted with liposuction due to the changed structure of the targeted fat cells.
The fact that fat can increase after liposuction is not new information. Whether it’s liposuction, a tummy tuck, or another body contouring procedure, maintaining appropriate health and wellness should be your first priority in order to maintain results. The key point I take away from this article is that these women did not change daily activities or eating habits. In fact, they were encouraged not to change their habits as they were offered more liposuction if it was needed once the study was complete.
Liposuction should never be a substitute for proper diet and exercise. Instead, it should serve as that extra push for the stubborn fat pockets that just do not seem to go away even with the best dieting and exercise efforts. After liposuction recovery, patients should be dedicated to a healthy lifestyle in order to maintain their results. In my years as a plastic surgeon, I’ve discovered that many patients aren’t sure what a healthy lifestyle looks like, which is why I do my best to educate through my Health and Wellness blog’s healthy recipes and tips. I’ve also teamed up with Darryl Madison, ACE certified personal trainer and creator of Chair-A-Cise exercise program, to offer patients diet and exercise programs that can be tailored for any fitness level.
For more information on the plastic surgery procedures that I offer, visit my website. Also, be sure to connect with me on Facebook and Twitter for more Health and Wellness and plastic surgery updates.