Thank you for your question regarding whether you should try to lose weight before your scheduled liposuction. It’s great that you are considering how to achieve the best possible results from your procedure. Liposuction is most effective when patients are close to their ideal weight because it is designed to remove localized fat deposits that do not respond well to diet and exercise, rather than serving as a primary weight-loss method. If you are able to lose a few pounds before the procedure, it could enhance the contouring effects of liposuction and improve the final outcome. Since you have about a month before your surgery, losing a small amount of weight in a healthy manner is feasible. A safe rate of weight loss is typically 1-2 pounds per week, focusing on a balanced diet and regular physical activity. However, it's important not to undergo any drastic or stressful dieting before surgery, as this can affect your overall health and recovery. Regarding weight loss aids, there are several medications that have been helpful for patients struggling to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. One of the newer and more effective drugs is Zepbound (tirzepatide), which has shown promising results in clinical trials for helping with weight reduction. Zepbound works by mimicking hormones that target areas of the brain involved in appetite regulation, which can help decrease hunger and increase feelings of fullness. Before starting any weight loss medication, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider. They can assess your overall health and determine if a medication like Zepbound is appropriate for you, considering potential side effects and interactions with other medications. In conclusion, if you feel motivated to lose a few pounds before your liposuction, doing so in a moderate and medically supervised manner could be beneficial. Communicate with both your plastic surgeon and a medical professional who can guide you on safe weight loss strategies or the use of weight loss medications. I hope this advice helps you prepare for your upcoming procedure, and I wish you the best in achieving your aesthetic goals. Sincerely, J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS Plastic and Aesthetic Surgeon