American Society of Plastic Surgeons
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Paige1
2 years ago
Answered

How do fat cells really work?

I've heard that when we lose weight that we don't lose the fat cells. Instead, they just get smaller. Is that true? I ask because I can lose some weight, but it always seems to come back. I've gone through this process many times over the years. I'm interested in liposuction because it will remove the fat cells altogether. I'm very heavy - about 225. I'm so tired of it.

Procedure: Liposuction
Location: Santa Fe, TX

Replies 3

Larry Weinstein
ASPS Surgeon

That is true each fat cell has an unlimited quantity of fat it can hold. Liposuction or liposculpture can eliminate unwanted fat cells that form layers just beneath your skin, It cannot remove internal omental fat or fat that deposits in your liver. See a board certified plastic surgeon who will evaluate your medical condition to determine if liposuction is a safe option for you. Good luck...

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James Chappell
ASPS Surgeon

I would add that liposuction is targeted fat removal from problem areas, but patients need to remember that though they won’t generally gain weight back in those same spots, if one eats 100 calories and doesn’t burn it off it is then going to go to it’s next favorite place (butt, breasts, neck, thighs…). I agree with what Dr. Weinstein wrote.

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Nelson Castillo

Thank you for sharing your question. Yes, fat cells do not replicate, they only grow and shrink based on your diet and exercise level. As for liposuction, it permanently removes some of the fat cells so that with any change in diet and exercise there is not as many cells to respond - but those remaining will still grow and shrink based on diet. Hope this helps.

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