Liposuction is a wonderful way to remove stubborn fat from the neck, abdomen, “muffin top”, flanks, “love handles”, back, arms, thighs, hips, and male breasts. Patients who have been exercising and dieting faithfully for years and finally turned to cosmetic surgery wonder why they waited so long. We love witnessing their surprise and joy when the bandages come off and they see their flat stomachs and slim thighs. They fit in their clothing better, have more clothing choices and feel much more confident flaunting their figures. 

Often, liposuction serves as that outside support that gets patients to re-commit to a rigorous exercise and diet regimen. Professional intervention means patients are no longer tackling tough challenges alone. More, we find pleasing liposuction results boost our patients’ moods, which in turn gives them the energy and outlook to get to that workout and prepare healthier meals. Still, keeping your trim contours requires healthy habits. These are our top recommendations for maintaining liposuction results.

3 Ways to Stay Lean After Liposuction

1. Stay Hydrated.

Drinking at least 64 ounces of water per day is a good idea for almost everyone, and it’s a critical aspect of your liposuction recovery. Staying hydrated helps the body cope with wound drainage, eliminates toxins, and expedites healing. If you stick with this habit over the long term, it can also contribute to weight loss: drinking enough water prevents fatigue and increases satiety after meals, making it easier to stick to your diet and exercise plan.

2. Keep Active.

Many people use liposuction to “spot reduce” stubborn fat pockets that exercise and dieting have been unable to address. However, while liposuction can definitely help you achieve a more pleasing contour and better muscle definition, this procedure is not a substitute for regular physical activity. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, physical inactivity is the leading cause of “rebound” weight gain after liposuction. 

This study analyzed 36 healthy female volunteers, which were divided into two groups: One group remained sedentary after having liposuction, while the other group started exercising three times per week. All of the women in the sedentary group gained a measurable amount of visceral fat, while women in the active group did not accumulate any new fat following liposuction. Women in the active group also demonstrated improved fitness levels and insulin sensitivity, two important predictors of good health and major contributors to an appealing physique.

3. Manage Stress.

During periods of chronic stress, levels of the hormone cortisol increase. High cortisol levels have been associated with the habitual consumption of high-calorie, nutrient-poor foods, especially among women. Adopting stress management strategies (such as meditating regularly, attending therapy or support groups, exercising, and adjusting your commitments) may, therefore, help you to avoid emotional triggers that cause you to overeat or make poor food choices, which will help you to maintain a healthy weight after liposuction.

Talk to Us About Liposuction at Our Clinic in Scottsdale, AZ

Though the fat removed by liposuction does not typically return, weight gain can still undermine your results. When you gain weight, fat cells all over your body expand, including fat cells in areas where you had liposuction. Significant weight gain can also alter the way your body distributes fat, thereby changing your contours. 

Liposuction is an effective way to permanently transform your body shape, but maintaining the results of this procedure will require discipline and the care of an attentive surgeon. If you are ready to explore the benefits of liposuction in more detail, contact us to arrange a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Jonathan Weinrach. We are also happy to answer any of your specific questions by phone. Do not hesitate to call (480) 634-6014. We look forward to hearing from you!