Have any surgeons considered using Liposuction as a treatment approach for Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome?

Question

I’m told the only effective treatment for PCOS is “weight loss”, but research shows that it’s the excessive fat cells that are producing the excess hormones contributing to the hormonal imbalance of PCOS in the first place, making it near impossible to lose the excess weight. I have managed to lose 60+lbs but can't maintain with healthy diet and exercise. Could permanent removal of those excess cells through Lipo help reduce the hormone imbalance, making it easier to lose or maintain weight?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Liposuction would not help an internal complex problem related to the ovaries and hormones.  Just like liposuction is not a weight loss intervention and doesnt help high blood pressure or diabeties.  Good luck!  Dr. Emer.

John L. Burns Jr., MD · Answer

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is directly related to the ovaries.  Liposuction will decrease the number of adipocytes but have no effect on the ovaries.

Paul J. Leahy, MD · Answer

Thank you for your thoughtful question. I would say that it is important to remember that liposuction is not performed for weight loss. It can improve contour, but losing weight on the scale is not the goal. However, this improved appearance and waistline is often enough to "jump start" a healthy diet & exercise routine, and that could help stimulate weight loss and thus improve other medical conditions. Best wishes.

R. Stephen Mulholland, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear fruitfly05,

PCOS has many variants.  The signs and symptoms of PCOS range from
hirsutism to body weight gain and hormonal and ovulatory irregularities.

Following the RPCOS with a certified
endocrinologist and/or gynecologist is critical.  The subcutaneous fat gain that can be
associated with PCOS and other endocrine systems can respond to liposuction,
however, the improvement will be in figure, shape and form, but not in decrease
in the hormonal irregularities associated with the syndrome.  Liposuction and PCOS just as in diabetes or
patients with hypertension can improve contour and shape, but should not be
viewed as a weight loss technique and certainly not one that would correct any
hormonal imbalances.

I applaud you for your weight loss
and attention to exercise and dietary management is critical and liposuction
should be used only for shaping where necessary.

I hope this information is of some
assistance and best of luck.

To find out more, please visit the
link below.

R. Stephen Mulholland, M.D.

Certified Plastic Surgeon

Yorkville, Toronto

Have any surgeons considered using Liposuction as a treatment approach for Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome?

Answers (4)