Lipo or weight loss? (Photo)

Question

I don't want to lose more than 20lbs bc then I won't have boobs or butt anymore (not to mention laxity). I hate my arms and my back is fat too. Would losing 20lbs fix my arms and back fat? I get the answer will likely be "lose weight and if you still aren't happy, then get lipo." But if it's obviously not worth the skin laxity, I rather just get lipo now.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

No one knows if a 20 pound weight loss would help with your arms and back. If you feel like you want to lose weight for other reasons, then don't hesitate to do so. If you just want your arms and back leaner, then liposuction. Keep in mind that liposuction doesn't tighten skin and can even cause it to be looser in certain individuals. If you were to go forward with liposuction, Renuvion should be applied as well. This is one of the many 'skin tightening' devices available, but that's not how it works. Nothing really tightens skin, or more specifically shrinks it's surface area, at least not beyond a few millimeters, which liposuction alone has been shown to do as well. Not Vaser, laser, Bodytite, and not Renuvion. The reason I recommend Renuvion is because it is most effective at heating the skin anchoring fascia below the skin, using a plasma (gas that has been stimulated by radiofrequency into a high energy state). Although I'm not convinced it works that well on thick back skin, it does work well on thinner arm skin.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello VictoriaValencia1,

Thank you for your question regarding liposuction versus weight loss.

Based on your pictures and description, you are an excellent candidate for liposuction. Liposuction can effectively target and remove stubborn fat deposits in specific areas such as your arms and back, providing you with the contour you desire without the extensive weight loss that might affect your overall body shape, including your breasts and buttocks.

If you want, you could transfer some of the fat removed from your arms and back into your buttocks, creating a more enhanced and balanced silhouette. This procedure, known as a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL), can give you the best of both worlds by reducing fat in unwanted areas and adding volume where you desire.

Losing 20 pounds might not significantly impact the fat in your arms and back as much as you hope, and it might lead to concerns about skin laxity, especially in those areas. Therefore, opting for liposuction can provide a more targeted and immediate solution to achieve the body contour you want without the potential drawbacks of significant weight loss.

I hope this helps to answer your question regarding whether to choose liposuction or weight loss. Good luck!

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic Surgeon

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thanks so much for your question,

When considering whether to pursue liposuction or weight loss for slimming your arms and back, it's essential to understand the benefits and drawbacks of each approach.

Liposuction offers quick and noticeable improvements in the contour and appearance of your arms and back. It effectively removes fat deposits that may be resistant to diet and exercise and many patients experience a significant boost in confidence and satisfaction with their body post-procedure.

If you desire quick, targeted fat reduction and are comfortable with surgery, liposuction might be the better option.

Sincerely, 
Dr. Emmanuel Mallol

David Hansen, MD · Answer

Liposuction with bodytite and morpheus would do great for the arms, axillae and midback areas.  It is easy to undergo and recovery time is fast.  Do it now and  enjoy the new you.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, you have not told us your age.  Skin laxity decreases with age.  If you are young then it is more likely that the skin will recoil either after weight loss or liposuction.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Arif Eroglu, MD · Answer

Hello; losing weight and becoming thinner; but, if you do not want to relax or if you do not want to lose fat from other areas and loosen up; with Vaserlipo treatment on you, arms and back fields; for tightening the skin; I recommend for Renuvion J Plasma technique.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Skin laxity can occur from liposuction or weight loss.  Liposuction can remove stubborn pockets of subcutaneous fat but does not take the place of a healthy lifestyle.  If you lost 20lbs gradually through diet and regular exercise you would likely notice a positive difference in your silhouette but it's not possible to say if that would be enough to give you the look you want.  If you prefer to have liposuction you can consider adding J Plasma to help with skin tightening.

Gebal Matos, MD · Answer

Losing 20 pounds might cause unwanted volume loss and lead to skin laxity, liposuction could be the preferable choice to target stubborn fat in your arms and back. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon can provide a personalized assessment and help you make an informed decision.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

It is always best to be close to your ideal weight for health issues and less sagging skin when you are older. Liposuction for fat loss and Renuvion for skin tightening would do well now.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

The post of photos are clothing and have have no help. You should post nude photos for better responses. The recommendations in general or to do the Lipo to avoid any skin sagging from weight loss to see if the results can be obtained. But best to virtual consult with expect fees to range from $5000-$10,000. Again, best of virtual consult with.

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