Can Liposuction Make You Less Prone to Heart Disease?

Does liposuction offer more than just cosmetic perks? According to a study presented at last month’s American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) annual meeting, this popular plastic surgery procedure may have desirable effects that extend beyond the aesthetic—effects that could potentially even be life-saving.

The study’s author, Dr. Eric Swanson, says he and his colleagues found that many of the 322 patients whose data they reviewed experienced a reduction in triglyceride levels after undergoing liposuction. Those who had normal levels prior to the procedure maintained similar levels afterward; but 62% of those who started with high levels (greater than 150 mg/dL) showed a 43% reduction after liposuction, bringing them down to a normal count.

Why is this important? Because high triglyceride levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (coronary heart disease, stroke), metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes. Traditionally, visceral fat (the fat that surrounds the internal organs) has been regarded as having a more important metabolic role than subcutaneous fat (the fat just under the skin, which is the type removed during liposuction). This study suggests that subcutaneous fat may play a larger part than previously thought—and if this turns out to be true, it means that getting liposuction could directly lower a person’s risk for health threats like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

It’s clear that more studies need to be conducted before any solid conclusions about liposuction’s effect upon patient health can be reached—namely, following up with patients involved with this study in years to come to find out whether they truly do experience fewer related medical issues. But these findings are promising, and great news for those who have high triglyceride levels, especially if you’re already considering liposuction!

What’s The Difference Between a Tummy Tuck & Liposuction?

*Disclaimer: Results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person.

San Francisco Plastic Surgery & Laser Center is a Bay Area leader for the liposuction procedure utilizing ultrasonic & smart lipo laser technology.

The liposuction procedure, technically known as suction-assisted lipectomy, is a technique to remove unwanted fat deposits from specific areas of the body. The result is a sculpting of bulging areas into more attractive contours.

The liposuction procedure removes fat cells to improve your body’s natural shape. Should you gain weight after the procedure, it goes to the fat cells that remain in your body, allowing you gain weight more evenly. Liposuction is a body contouring procedure, not a weight loss procedure.

SMART LIPO (Laserlipolysis/Laser Assisted Liposuction)

This is one of the newest methods for performing liposuction.  Laser energy is used to melt fat and produce mild skin tightening at the same time.  Smartlipo can be used in all parts of the body.  It can be performed under both local anesthesia (for smaller areas of the body) or general anesthesia (for larger areas of the body).

Ultrasound Assisted Liposuction (UAL)

Ultrasound assisted lipoplasty (UAL) is the latest technique utilized by Dr. Rajagopal for body sculpting. UAL uses sound waves to “liquefy” unwanted fat and can be an effective tool for removing fat from fibrous body areas, such as the male breasts or the back. It is also effective for removing larger volumes of fat in a single procedure and for improved body contouring. With UAL, Dr. Rajagopal can remove larger volumes of fat with less bleeding and she is able to sculpt more effectively than with traditional Liposuction. Additionally, UAL seems to allow the skin to shrink more effectively after the procedure.

Liposuction San Francisco

If you have any questions regarding the Liposuction Procedure, or wish to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rajagopal, please call the San Francisco Plastic Surgery & Laser Center at 415-392-3333.