Liposuction: The 10 most frequently asked questions

Liposuction is a popular and effective method to remove unwanted fat and improve the contours of the body. Also with Aesthetic Center Jan van Goyen Liposuction is a common procedure, which is often combined with other treatments, such as tummy tuck or lipofilling.

We attach great importance to keeping our patients well informed. During each consultation, ample time is taken to tell the patient everything about the treatment. Because our doctors speak to people who are considering liposuction every day, they regularly hear the same questions. In this article we have listed the 10 most frequently asked questions for you.

1. Is liposuction permanent?

Yes, the results of liposuction are permanent. During liposuction, the plastic surgeon removes fat cells from specific locations, for example in the abdomen or neck. These removed cells generally do not return and this ensures that the results are permanently visible, provided you do not gain significant weight.

2. Can I gain weight again after liposuction?

Yes, it is possible to gain weight again after liposuction. Although fat cells are removed from specific areas of the body during the procedure, this does not mean that you cannot develop new fat cells. If you gain significant weight after the procedure, this can affect your body contour and the results of the liposuction. However, it is a myth that you gain weight faster after liposuction; this is not the case. Fat cells do not develop faster than before and you do not gain weight faster. If you have a healthy lifestyle, you can usually enjoy the results for a long time.

3. How quickly is the result visible?

The result of liposuction is usually not fully visible immediately after the procedure. Initially, swelling and bruising may occur, which means that the visible results may take some time.

During the first weeks after liposuction, the swelling gradually decreases. You will be able to see what has been done after a few weeks, but after a few months the swelling will be completely gone and the tissue will have completely recovered. Only then will the final result be visible.

4. Can belly fat be removed with liposuction?

Yes, the abdomen is one of the areas that we can treat with liposuction at Aesthetic Center Jan van Goyen. Our doctors often hear from patients that they have tried everything, but that unfortunately the belly fat does not disappear. Liposuction can then be a very suitable treatment, because it can remove local fat deposits in the abdomen. However, it is important to have realistic expectations and to discuss these carefully with your plastic surgeon in advance. Liposuction is not an alternative to a healthy lifestyle - but it can be a solution if you are bothered by fat in specific areas that do not go away despite exercise and a balanced diet.

Are you curious about the results of liposuction? View before and after photos here.

5. How much does liposuction cost?

Liposuction is available with us starting from €2,900, but the cost of liposuction depends on the area you wish to have treated. You can read more about our prices and the price breakdown. here. You are also always welcome for a no-obligation consultation. The doctor will then determine, based on your personal situation, what is needed to achieve the intended result, after which you will receive a tailor-made quotation.

6. Can I get reimbursement for liposuction?

Liposuction is only reimbursed by your basic or supplementary health insurance if there is a medical indication. For example, when you can no longer function properly due to fat deposits. In addition, in this case, liposuction must be the best method to help you get rid of your complaints. Your plastic surgeon can provide the health insurer with an explanation for this.

Do you suspect that there may be a medical necessity and would you like to know whether your health insurer will reimburse the liposuction? Ask the insurer prior to your first consultation. This way you will not be faced with any surprises.

7. Is liposuction painful?

No, because liposuction is performed under local or general anesthesia, you will not feel any pain during the procedure. After liposuction, it is common to experience discomfort, which may be accompanied by mild pain, swelling and bruising. In general, we hear from patients that the pain was not too bad for them. However, everyone experiences pain differently, so the level of pain varies from person to person.

8. How long does recovery take after liposuction?

Recovery after liposuction varies depending on the areas treated, the extent of the procedure and individual factors. If you have undergone liposuction in your neck, for example, you can usually resume your daily activities after a few days to a week. Have you undergone liposuction in multiple zones, for example your entire abdomen and flanks? Then recovery will take longer and your body will need more time to recover.

Even though you get back to your old self fairly quickly and can resume your daily activities, your body needs several weeks to months to fully recover. During this period, it is important to carefully follow your plastic surgeon's postoperative instructions to promote the healing process.

9. What am I not allowed to do after liposuction?

Because different areas can be treated with liposuction, it varies for each patient what he or she is temporarily not allowed to do after this procedure. Your doctor will inform you about this during the consultation. In general, it is better to avoid these things:

1. Sitting for long periods of time. Sitting for long periods of time increases the risk of stagnation and swelling. You can prevent this by regularly taking short walks.
2. Intense physical activity. It is better to avoid strenuous physical exertion during the first days to a few weeks after the operation.
3. Blood-thinning medications and alcohol. Unless otherwise prescribed by your doctor, the general advice is to avoid blood-thinning medications and alcohol.
4. Smoking. As with any surgical procedure, liposuction also means that smoking can slow down the healing process. Stopping smoking before the procedure and not resuming smoking after the procedure ensures a more optimal recovery.
5. Direct sunlight. Make sure the treated area is covered, or wear a high SPF sunscreen.

These are 5 general things that apply to almost every liposuction, but there may also be specific instructions based on the area treated. So always make sure that you follow the postoperative instructions of your treating physician.

10. What will my skin look like after liposuction?

Immediately after the procedure, the skin will look swollen and possibly somewhat irregular. This is caused by the swelling and the adaptation of the skin to the new contours. This is normal and nothing to worry about. Over the first few weeks, the swelling will decrease and you will see your skin improve. Any bruises will also disappear during the first weeks. You will usually not have any visible scars or other skin changes from liposuction.

More information?

Do you have any questions after reading this article? Then you will find here more information about this procedure. In addition, you are of course always welcome at our clinic for a consultation free consultation. This offers you the opportunity to discuss all your questions and wishes with one of our plastic surgeons. This way you know exactly what to expect after the consultation.