Lipo or weight loss? (Photo)

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.

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

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