Liposuction May Cause an Accumulation of Fat - But Physical Exercise Can Combat It

New studies show that having liposuction procedures may increase the accumulation of fat in the body. This may be due to the body compensating for the sudden lack of fat. This new accumulation may also increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Luckily, this effect can be counteracted by physical activity.

Liposuction is one of the most popular aesthetic procedures performed worldwide, but its long-term effects still remain unclear.

Some studies have shown that the sudden decrease in body fat may affect body composition by triggering mechanisms that create body fat regain. However, current studies suggest that physical activity following surgery can prevent the fat regain.

"We've found that removing fat tissue from the body may result in a total energy expenditure and compensatory growth of visceral fat which is associated with heart disease," said Dr. Fabiana Benatti of the University of Sao Paulo in Brazil. "The good news is, physical exercise training is effective in counteracting this compensatory growth. If someone chooses to have liposuction procedures done, it is essential that they exercise after surgery."

In this study, 35 healthy women underwent a small-volume liposuction of their abdomen. Two months following the surgery, the women were randomly placed into two groups.One group was placed on a 4-month exercise program, and the other was not. Liposuction was effective in reducing extraneous amounts of fat in the body, but after six months without exercise, that group showed a significant increase in visceral fat.

Compared to those who did exercise, this was a significant difference.

"We believe patients should be informed of the possibilities of this fat growth following their procedures. As with any surgical procedure, they should also be informed of the potential health risks," said Benatti. "Additionally, health professionals are encouraged to recommend exercise programs as an intervention following liposuction surgery."

Liposuction has been proven to reduce the presence of harmful fats in the body, and get those who have difficulty losing weight back to a healthy place. Having liposuction done along with a tummy tuck is a great way to start your journey back to health. However, it is important to be aware of the possible risks that come along with this procedure.

Don't expect that once you have the procedure done, you will simply be able to return to a sedentary life. It is essential that exercise is implemented into your routine after you have completely healed from the procedure.

If you feel you are a candidate for a tummy tuck or liposuction, contact Dr. Franks today for a complimentary consultation. Dr. Franks is a board-certified plastic surgeon, and will be able to help you with any questions or concerns you may have prior to undergoing a cosmetic procedure.