For many liposuction patients, the most difficult part of the entire process occurs after the surgery and recovery period have ended. While liposuction can achieve beautiful results that help you achieve your desired figure, the long term success of your procedure ultimately depends on how well you take care of your body after surgery. A recent study posted in the Journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons found that approximately 50% of patients surveyed regained weight within several months of undergoing liposuction. The most common reason for this weight gain was a failure to incorporate the proper diet and exercise regimens into their lifestyle. It is important to remember that liposuction is not a weight management tool. It is intended to help physically fit people who are in good overall health and near their ideal weight remove stubborn pockets of fat that have been resistant to diet and exercise. If you are unable to maintain your ideal weight after liposuction, you will gain weight, and it will be stored in your remaining fat cells. During your initial consultation, Dr. Bottger will discuss the important lifestyle adjustments that need to be made after your procedure to make sure you are a good candidate for liposuction. It is important that you commit to maintaining a healthy lifestyle prior to moving forward with the procedure. In addition, Dr. Bottger recommends that you take the following steps after surgery to help prevent future weight gain:
- Get a gym membership – This will give you greater incentive to commit to a regular exercise regimen
- Examine your diet – Watch your portion sizes and try to eat more fruits and vegetables while reducing your intake of sugars, saturated fats, and carbohydrates
- Keep a bottle of water with you at all times – Staying hydrated helps you cut down on snacking and facilitates bodily waste removal
- Reduce your salt intake – This will reduce dehydration, bloating, and high blood pressure
By embracing a healthy lifestyle after liposuction, you will significantly increase your chances of enjoying your results for years to come. If you live in the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania area and are interested in liposuction, please contact Dr. David Bottger today to schedule your initial consultation.