Can liposuction cause fat to move around in my body?

When we gain and lose weight the fat cells in our body either grow or shrink. We do not create new fat cells and unless fat cells are removed (such as with liposuction) we do not lose them. Liposuction will not cause your fat cells to move around, however you may perceive that certain areas of the body seem bigger if the area beside them was suctioned.

Dear Witty44992,

liposuction will not cause movement of the fat. I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.


Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thank you for posting your question here!My answer will be based on the limited information provided, for a more detailed and personalized answer please consult with your surgeon in person.
When fat is taken from a certain area through liposuction the fat cells that are taken do not regenerate , the remaining cells might grow in size if you gain weight but they wont regenerate to replace the ones that were removed, This will lead the body to store more fat in the other areas with more fat cells ( were cells have not been removed) so you will have those areas gain more fat which might give the impression that the fat is moving around.I hope this helps, best of luck!