Current BMI of 23 - would liposuction to the belly, back and upper arms deliver noticeable results? (photo)

Question

I am a 36 year old female. Diagnosed since my early 20s with PCOS. I am 5’3” currently 133lbs, lowest weight before COVID 120. I am bumping up exercise to 4-5 days a week cause I want to go back to triathlons. Will lipo360 help flatten my belly and back? And liposuction for my upper arms as well? We’re looking at $7k and I want to know if anyone has seen NO difference for someone whose BMI is around 23.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry and the provided details and picture. My immediate response would be, “Yes, liposuction, particularly VASER liposuction, could yield noticeable results in the belly, back, and upper arms even with a BMI of 23.” The VASER technique could especially be beneficial if you are aiming for a highly defined and sculpted appearance, like an abdominal six-pack and well-defined arms.
However, while substantial improvements can be expected in the belly and arms, enhancements in the back area may not be as pronounced. Therefore, having a detailed discussion with your plastic surgeon about your desired level of definition and sculpting is crucial to manage expectations and choose the most suitable approach.
I hope this clarifies your concerns and assists you in making an informed decision. Wishing you all the best on your journey.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEPOBRAS · Answer

At a BMI of 23, liposuction can still make a noticeable difference if the fullness is mainly pinchable subcutaneous fat and the skin has good elasticity. In your photo there appears to be localized fullness around the abdomen/flank area and upper arm, but a hands-on exam is needed to separate fat, skin laxity, muscle separation, and deeper abdominal fullness.

Lipo 360 may improve waist and back contour, and arm liposuction can help selected patients, but it will not create weight loss, treat PCOS, or reliably flatten the abdomen if the issue is visceral fat, bloating, loose skin, or muscle separation. Someone with your BMI can also see little change if only a small amount of fat can be safely removed.

Before spending $7k, ask your surgeon to show examples of patients with a similar BMI, skin tone, and body shape, and ask exactly which areas would be treated and what change they realistically expect.

Matthew Schulman, MD · Answer

Most people think that liposuction is intended for people with lots of excess fat. This isn’t necessarily true. Yes, Lipo will remove fat, but it is a BODY SHAPING procedure, not a weight loss procedure. This means that the best candidates are people who are in good shape and have a healthy lifestyle, BUT still have some “trouble” areas that do not respond to diet and exercise. So, yes, you can probably benefit from liposuction if you want to shape your abdomen and back. There isn’t going to be a lot of fat removed, but that’s ok because targeted removal of a small amount of fat from the right places can make a big difference. But only you can decide if it will be worth it. Make sure to see an experienced board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in liposuction, since your case will take a high level of expertise.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Yes, liposuction should produce a significant difference.  Liposuction costs $4,000 for 1 hour and $7,000 for 2 hours and is done on an out-patient basis.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Justin Yovino, MD, FACS · Answer

It is hard to answer your question without seeing more detailed photos of the problem areas. The best evaluation of your situation would be a virtual live video consultation at minimum. An in-person consultation would be the gold standard. We do our best to only operate on patients who will have noticeable differences. The amount of difference is variable and may be subtle to dramatic. We try to give an accurate estimate of the results during the consultation. It all depends on how much excess fat is contributing to the unwanted fullness. In the case of PCOS, there can be some challenges. Some of the excess fullness is due to swellling / water retention and that is not treated with liposuction.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Liposuction can help remove excess fat in specific areas, but it is not weight-loss surgery nor will remove 10 or more pounds.

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Thanks for your question! Sometimes, "finesse liposuction" cases have the best results because it truly is body contouring. Please be sure to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon in your area. Good luck!

Sergio Sanchez-Bailon, MD · Answer

In my practice doing a body contouring surgery as liposuction I treat the whole body doing so, all liposuction includes the arms, armpits, back, flanks, waist, abdomen and inner thighs. All this is done in order to achieve the best result doing so in one surgery by doing so also with the best technology available that is ultrasound and power assisted liposuction, ass well as skin tightening technology. You can achieve a great result by flattening your abdomen and back, as well as lowering and defining the arms. Schedule your free virtual consultation and talk about your case.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

The 1 posted photo does demonstrate some areas of fat. So you are classified as "Skinny Lipo" Though the fee is in line but I might also use J-Plasma at that fee quote with the lipo to tighten skin. Regards Best to virtual consult with....

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Liposuction can improve areas with stubborn subcutaneous fat.  This is the fat you can pinch.  If you are intending to lose weight through diet and exercise it is best to meet that goal before surgery.  This will allow your surgeon to optimize your results.  I've included a video about liposuction that I hope you find helpful.

Current BMI of 23 - would liposuction to the belly, back and upper arms deliver noticeable results? (photo)

Answers (11)

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