Can laser lipo cause you to gain weight? Or the fluid that was used?

Question

I know a few ppl who had their surgery done by the same surgeon and experienced weight gain. Me personally hit a weight gain of 25 pounds. Prior to the surgery I was fit and weighed about 160. I have never weighed more than before until after the surgery I just kept gaining weight. My whole body got a new apple shape that I didn't have before a well.

Mark Edward Hennessy, MD · Answer

Laser Lipo is associated with weight gain immediately after the procedure which is caused by retained tumescent (numbing). Between 4-6 liters of fluid is infused under your skin and approximately fifty percent is removed during the aspiration portion of your procedure, which means 2-3 liters of fluid remains and this is approximately equivalent to 4-5 pounds. This residual fluid drains w/in 48 hours. Weight gained after this may follow from retained inflammatory fluid, lack of exercise, excess caloric intake, or high salt diet. Of course medical conditions (like hypothyroidism) may develop randomly and so you should seek an opinion from your primary care doctor.
Yours in health.

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

Swelling from fluids can give weight gain after liposuction but 25 lbs is unusual.Close follow up with your plastic surgeon is recommended to discuss your options and any treatment.

Calvin Jung, MD · Answer

Hi Tasha,
Most patients experience a short period of weight gain after the procedure due to the tumescent fluid, the body's natural inflammatory state after the procedure.  A 25 pound weight gain post liposculpture is rather unusual.  I often tell patients to consume a high protein, low carbohydrate and low salt diet post procedure.  If you weight gain is continuing, I would see your primary care physician and be evaluated for potential medical causes as well!

Ryan Neinstein, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Thanks for the question, early on after liposuction the areas of lipo can act like a sponge and soak up water. This weight can be significant, most people on a  low salt diet this should go away soon. I have seen patients require diuretics before. Alternatively there could be another medical cause of weight gain, probably best to see your primary care just to be careful

Mitchell Chasin, MD · Answer

Up to 5 liters of tumescent fluid is used during the laser liposuction procedure, so experiencing some fluid retention post treatment is normal and could result in an initial weight gain of 2-6 pounds. This is a temporary weight gain and as your body heals; you will naturally drain any residual fluid through your lymphatic system. 
  
A large intake of salty foods, high calories, or lack of exercise can create weight gain post treatment.
  
I've treated over hundreds of patients with laser liposuction under local anesthesia and have never seen a weight gain of 25 pounds due to the procedure. Patients who treat under general anesthesia may experience different results and longer downtime. 
  
I suggest meeting with your physician to discuss your options going forward.

Neil C. Goodman, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

The average patient does regain most of the weight removed during the lipo procedure. However, any additional weight gained is related to over consumption of food, lack of exercise, possible medical conditions and other factors. I suggest you see your medical doctor for evaluation.
Have also included a video that shows a laser liposuction procedure:

Can laser lipo cause you to gain weight? Or the fluid that was used?

Answers (6)

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