Frequent Questions About Liposuction

A Service of San Diego Plastic Surgeon Tom Pousti, M.D.

Q: Are there different types of liposuction?
A: Some offices use different names which mean the same thing. You may hear words such as “lipoplasty” “liposuction” or “suctioning lipectomy” — they all mean the same thing.

Q: Can liposuction be used as a weight loss method?
A: No, liposuction is used to get rid of isolated areas of fat which are diet and/or exercise resistant NOT for weight loss.

Q: How long do I need to be off of work?
A: It is suggested that you take off of work for 3-5 days after surgery but continue to avoid strenuous activity for one month after surgery.

Q: Will my skin re-bound after the liposuction?
A: Dr. Pousti will assess your skin elasticity and discuss your results with you at your consultation. The older we get, the less elastic our skin becomes.

Q: Will the fatty tissue “come back”?
A: If the patient gains weight post-operatively, the cells that remain on the patient may grow. It is best to resume a sensible diet and exercise program as soon as possible after liposuction surgery.