Debunking liposuction myths: Fat doesn’t come back

Outdated myth #2: Fat returns after liposuction

Let’s take a closer look at how the human body behaves after liposuction.

What does liposuction do to fat cells?

The number of fat cells in the body remains constant throughout life. Fat cells can increase or decrease in size, but this always happens uniformly across the body. This means that, for example, a larger abdominal area will remain proportionally bigger, no matter how much a person trains.

To permanently get rid of locally accumulated fat and unwanted proportions, the only solution is the surgical removal of fat cells. Once removed, these fat cells will never return. However, this doesn’t mean that the body won’t gain weight again.

2kg weight gain vs. 2kg of abdominal fat

Our bodies are accustomed to being constant: a certain temperature, water content, and body mass. This is referred to as the body’s set point. If the set point is suddenly altered, such as through liposuction, the body receives a signal that something is wrong. To correct the situation, the body quickly starts producing fat again. This fat is now distributed evenly across the remaining cells throughout the body.

There’s a big difference between a patient having 2kg of extra fat (about 2 liters of milk) only on the abdomen versus a uniform 2kg weight gain. Losing a large mass from one area has an immediately noticeable effect. On the other hand, if this fat is regained evenly across the body, it usually goes unnoticed.

Of course, with proper care, it’s possible to maintain a state where no weight gain occurs.

How to prevent fat reproduction?

It’s said that it takes at least six months to reset the body’s set point. This explains why it’s difficult to maintain a new weight after losing weight. In reality, it doesn’t matter whether you lose weight slowly, allowing the body to adjust, or lose it quickly and then maintain it. In any case, we need at least six months of effort to maintain the new weight.

To prevent an increase in body fat, you need to avoid consuming all types of fats. This includes both good and bad fats, saturated and unsaturated fats, and even salad oils. Those who can’t maintain their weight will see their body proportions change. Those who can maintain it will not only keep their proportions but also have a smaller number on the scale.

Attention! This is a healthcare service. Christinas Clinic is licensed by the Health Board, permit L04361 (CBF Medical OÜ).