How effective is liposuction if this is my third time seeking this surgery?

Question

My first liposuction was 7 years ago to touch up some areas that would not respond to excerise. This was before I had my son. Then about 3.5 years ago I did some areas to help me perfect some stubborn areas. I've gained weight in the last year solely due to stress from work. Not from poor eating habits. I'm very healthy and now want liposuction again. What do you recommend?

Mitchel Goldman, MD · Answer

I would generally not recommend having liposuction in the same areas a third time. The effects will not be as good due to internal scar tissue from previous surgeries and lack of remaining fat cells, and there is a higher chance of unwanted side effects. It may be a good idea for you to try to make some lifestyle changes and try to lose the weight you’ve put on naturally first, and if you still want to try liposuction again after that, visit a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon who has experience performing liposuction and revision liposuction for a consultation to see if it’s a viable option for you.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

If you are a candidate, and that is determined by a formal consultation, then liposuction can be very effective.  I suggest revision surery with a physician who is experienced in VASER and hi definition procedures.  Please see an expert.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

With every treatment, you can expect some diminishing returns in terms of your results. I would advise you to lose the excess weight first and then seek a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon in your area about the best body contouring options to achieve your desired results. Best, Dr. Nazarian

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

With significant weight gain fat may reappear in an area that was treated by liposuction. Retreatment is a bit more difficult because of the scarring but still yield good results.

John Y.S. Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

In general the positive impact of liposuction in the same area decreases with successive attempts and the risk for contour irregularity and asymmetry increases.  Losing the weight you gained may be the best initial step

How effective is liposuction if this is my third time seeking this surgery?

Answers (9)

Answer: Revisional liposuction after weight gain.

Answer: Revisional liposuction after weight gain.

Answer: Repeat liposuction

Answer: Repeat liposuction

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Everything you need to know about Liposuction

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How effective is liposuction if this is my third time seeking this surgery?

Answers (9)

Answer: Revisional liposuction after weight gain.

Answer: Revisional liposuction after weight gain.

Answer: Repeat liposuction

Answer: Repeat liposuction

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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.