Effect of corticosteroids on liposuction results?

Question

I have heard conflicting information about corticosteroids. It doesn’t make sense that any medication would cause weight gain outside of a caloric surplus, as that is impossible by the laws of physics. But I’ve also heard it causes fat redistribution? If someone had liposuction a happy with and maintaining their results, would a short course of steroids affect their results?could it cause fat gain in the abdomen? I’d rather not take steroids and seek alternative if this is the case.

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEPOBRAS · Answer

A short course of corticosteroids would not be expected to permanently reverse or “ruin” a good liposuction result. Liposuction removes fat cells from treated areas, and a brief steroid course does not put those fat cells back.

Steroids can still affect the body in temporary ways. They may increase appetite, cause water retention, bloating, and temporary weight fluctuation. With longer-term or repeated higher-dose use, corticosteroids can also contribute to changes in fat distribution, such as more central/truncal fullness, but that is much more relevant with chronic use than with a short medically necessary course.

If your weight and lifestyle remain stable, a short steroid course is unlikely to cause permanent abdominal fat gain after liposuction. I would not avoid a prescribed steroid if it is important for your health without first discussing alternatives with the prescribing doctor. If the steroid is elective or there are options, ask about the dose, duration, and whether a non-steroid treatment is appropriate for your condition.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Corticosteroids are a class of medications that mimic the effects of hormones produced by the adrenal glands, such as cortisol. While it is true that weight gain typically occurs when there is a caloric surplus, corticosteroids can contribute to weight gain in a few different ways. They can stimulate appetite, leading to increased food intake and potentially resulting in weight gain. This effect is particularly notable with long-term or high-dose corticosteroid use.. They can also cause fluid retention, leading to temporary weight gain due to increased water content in the body (this effect usually subsides once the medication is discontinued).

Prolonged use of corticosteroids can lead to fat redistribution in some individuals. This typically involves the accumulation of fat in the face (moon face), neck, upper back, and abdomen, while other areas may experience fat loss. This effect is more common with long-term use and may not be significant with short-term courses.

A short course of corticosteroids is generally less likely to cause significant fat redistribution or impact the results of liposuction compared to long-term use. Nevertheless, it would be best to consult with a healthcare provider who can evaluate your specific situation and provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current condition.

I hope this helps,
best of luck !

Garrett Jones, DO · Answer

Corticosteroids can potentially impact liposuction results in several ways:
1.	Fluid Retention: Corticosteroids can cause fluid retention and swelling in the body, which may temporarily obscure the final results of liposuction. This fluid retention can make it difficult to assess the true extent of fat reduction immediately after surgery.
2.	Delayed Healing: Corticosteroids have immunosuppressive effects that can delay the body's natural healing processes. This may prolong the recovery time following liposuction and affect the overall outcome of the procedure.
3.	Scar Formation: Corticosteroids can influence collagen production and scar formation. In some cases, especially if corticosteroids are administered post-operatively, they may affect how scars heal and potentially increase the risk of hypertrophic or keloid scarring in the liposuction treatment areas.
4.	Risk of Infection: Corticosteroids can suppress the immune system, which may increase the risk of infection following liposuction surgery. Infections can interfere with the healing process and compromise the final results of the procedure.
5.	Impact on Weight and Fat Redistribution: Corticosteroids can affect metabolism and may lead to weight gain or changes in fat distribution in the body. This could potentially alter the long-term results of liposuction if weight gain occurs in untreated areas or if existing fat deposits increase in size due to corticosteroid use.
Overall, while corticosteroids may have temporary effects on liposuction results, their impact is typically more significant in the immediate post-operative period and during the healing process. It's essential for patients undergoing liposuction to discuss any medications they are taking, including corticosteroids, with their plastic surgeon to ensure optimal surgical outcomes and minimize potential complications. Additionally, patients should follow their plastic surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully and maintain a healthy lifestyle to support proper healing and long-term results.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

While long term steroid use can increase your appetite and cause weight gain, short term use is less likely to have this effect.  A short course of steroids taken to address an acute medical condition should not significantly impact your liposuction results.  I encourage you to speak to your provider about your concerns.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Long term steroids do cause fat deposition in varied areas of the body.  Short term treatments such as a Medrol Dose Pack (five day tapering course of steroids) does not have the same effect.  You would NEVER take steroids in hopes of increasing your fat content for an elective procedure.  
Steroids affect multiple organ systems and should only be taken when medically indicated.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Short term use of anti-inflammatory steroids are used often for a variety of conditions where reducing inflammation is helpful. A typical short course of steroids, which is usually less than a week should not have any long-term effects on fat distribution. The long-term use of anti-inflammatory steroids should be avoided because, it has serious negative side effects. 
I suggest you discuss your medical concerns with your medical providers.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

Effect of corticosteroids on liposuction results?

Answers (6)

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