Longevity of Liposuction Results Over Time
The short answer is that if you maintain a stable weight through proper nutrition and exercise, the sculpting effects of liposuction can last between 5 – 10 years or even for life. As long as your weight remains within 5 to 10 pounds of your post-liposuction weight after initial post-surgical swelling and bruising have subsided – within 1 – 2 months, –the enhancement is essentially permanent.
However, substantial weight fluctuations outside of 10 pounds can impact the longevity of your results as those remaining fat cells may expand or shrink when more or less fat is present. But maintaining your weight solidifies Dr. Jean’s customized sculpting into beautiful proportional results that realistically last years for most patients. For optimal lifelong results, adopting sustainable healthy eating and activity habits alongside the liposuction procedure is key.
Details of a Standard Liposuction Procedure
Step 1
Markings: During a pre-op visit, Dr. Jean maps precise target areas for contouring and fat removal. Clinical photographs track progress. A “cannula” is a thin tube instrument used to remove fat.
Step 2
Anesthesia: For maximum patient safety and comfort, Dr. Jean performs liposuction under general anesthesia administered by board-certified anesthesiology staff.
Step 3
Fat Removal: Small hidden incisions allow smooth cannula insertion directly into deeper fat layers for meticulous removal by suction. Common sites treated include abdomen, thighs, flanks, arms, or neck/chin.
Step 4
Closing Up: Incisions are tiny, less than 1/4 inch, and intricately closed with absorbable deep sutures and surgical skin glue. Sterile dressings and compression garments complete the procedure.
Liposuction FAQs
How much fat can be removed safely in one session?
Current safety guidelines allow removing up to 5 liters (11 pounds) of fat in a single liposuction treatment. Removing excess fat cells can pose risks and compromise results. Dr. Jean custom tailors each plan for patient safety.
What happens if I gain weight after liposuction?
The treated area may still expand if patients gain weight after liposuction. However, if weight is gained gradually over multiple years, the area is more likely to retain its improved shape. [
Which body zones show the longest-lasting liposuction results?
The abdomen, thighs, and hips display better lifelong improvements when compared to the arms and neck which show more skin laxity over time after substantial fat removal. Treating multiple areas promotes overall balanced enhancements.
Can I get revision liposuction years later if some fat returns?
Yes. With significant weight stability and elapsed time, patients who experience some fat return can safely undergo targeted revision liposuction by Dr. Jean for rejuvenated results. However, maintenance is still needed long-term through diet and exercise.
Contact Main Line’s Top Plastic Surgeon
To learn more about your candidacy for liposuction and the realistic projected longevity of improvements, please contact Dr. Jean or call 484-222-0010 today to arrange your private consultation at his cosmetic surgery practice conveniently located in Bryn Mawr, PA.