Liposuction and bodyfat % for lean male bodybuilder. Can you be too lean for liposuction?

Question

I want to get liposuction on my disproportional love handles. However, I am lean overall and around 13-14% bodyfat. I am concerned that my leanness will be an impediment to the liposuction result and not enough fat will be available. Should I hop off my diet for a few weeks to prepare for surgery? As you can see there was skin removal surgery prior, so it may also be redundant skin as well as fat. I am concerned with proportions and would like a 1-1.5 inch reduction, so not too much fat removed.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

You may be benefit from Vaser liposuction. Vaser liposuction, also known as Vaser #lipo, LipoSelection or Liposuction, is an advanced body #contouring procedure that selectively removes unwanted body fat. An alternative to the harsh techniques of traditional liposuction, #Vaser lipo uses state-of-the-art ultrasound technology designed to gently #reshape your body. There are three types of #Vaser Lipo. Each benefit patients differently depending on their needs. 
An ideal  #candidate for Vaser Liposuction is a person in good health who seeks a minimally invasive way to remove stubborn fat with less downtime than traditional #liposuction. Vaser is ideal for those seeking improved definition of muscles and contouring. Those who seek increased sculpting of are ideal vaser lipo candidates.
It is usually recommended that patients who have recently experienced weight loss and massive weight loss (#MWL) remain consistent at their weight for at least six to twelve months prior any cosmetic surgery. Such will better ensure longer lasting results of the procedure without risking the fluctuation and stretching of the skin tissue. 
I suggest you begin by seeking a #PlasticSurgeon who is board-certified and has a great deal of experience specializing in cosmetic #surgery to consult with. The most important decision to be made before performing any surgical procedure is determining whether you are an ideal #candidate. Your board-certified plastic surgeon will recommend the type best suited for you during a one-on-one in-person consultation.

Andre Aboolian, MD · Answer

From the photos you have provided one can't tell if you have fat or skin or combination of both as the cause for your concern.  If fat is part of the problem you can still perform liposuction and get the improvement without the need to "hop off" your diet.  And if part of the problem is skin then skin excision should be performed, however, make sure to lower the scar so if is hidden under shorts/pants.  When choosing your plastic surgeon make sure to review the before/after photos.

Joseph Franklin, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.  Without a physical exam, it is difficult to determine if the love handles are the result of extra fat or extra skin.  Would recommend seeing a board certified plastic surgeon for evaluation and surgical decision making.  Best to you, and congratulations on the 13% body fat.

Liposuction and bodyfat % for lean male bodybuilder. Can you be too lean for liposuction?

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Liposuction and bodyfat % for lean male bodybuilder. Can you be too lean for liposuction?

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.