What Happens if I Gain Weight After Liposuction?

By: Dr. Sean Kelishadi, M.D. FACS

3/5/2025

Liposuction at SSK Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA is a highly effective procedure for removing stubborn fat and sculpting a more contoured figure. However, it's important to understand that liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure — it's designed for body contouring. If you gain weight after liposuction, the distribution of fat in your body may change, potentially affecting your results. Dr. Sean Kelishadi explains what happens when weight gain occurs and how to help maintain liposuction results.

Will I gain weight in the same areas after liposuction?

Liposuction removes fat cells from targeted areas of the body, meaning those specific areas will have fewer fat cells overall. However, the remaining fat cells in the body can still expand if weight gain occurs. This means that while fat may not return to the treated areas in the same way, other parts of the body may accumulate fat more noticeably. Common areas where fat may accumulate after weight gain include:

  • The abdomen and flanks
  • The thighs and buttocks
  • The upper arms and back

Maintaining a stable weight after liposuction is key to preserving results and ensuring your body stays proportionate.

How does weight gain impact my liposuction results?

Small fluctuations in weight (around 5 – 10 pounds) are normal and typically don't have a significant impact on liposuction results. However, gaining a substantial amount of weight (15 pounds or more) can alter the shape of your body. When this happens, new fat deposits may form in untreated areas, which can lead to an unbalanced or disproportionate appearance.

If you gain a considerable amount of weight, the treated areas may still maintain some level of improvement, but your overall body contour may no longer reflect your post-liposuction shape. This is why a long-term commitment to healthy lifestyle habits is recommended.

What can I do to maintain my liposuction results?

To help keep your results looking their best, it's important to adopt a healthy routine that supports long-term weight stability. A few key strategies include:

  • Eating a balanced diet: Focus on nutrient-dense foods like lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains to help maintain a healthy weight.
  • Exercising regularly: Incorporate both cardio and strength training to promote fat loss and muscle tone.
  • Staying hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help control hunger and prevent overeating.

A steady routine of healthy habits can help you enjoy the long-term benefits of your liposuction in Orange County.

Can I get liposuction again if I regain significant weight?

If significant weight gain occurs after your initial liposuction, a revision procedure may be an option. However, it's ideal to prevent the need for additional procedures by maintaining a stable weight. If weight gain has significantly altered your results, consulting with Dr. Kelishadi can help you determine the approach for regaining your desired contours.

Get long-lasting results with liposuction in Orange County

If you're considering liposuction or have concerns about maintaining your results, Dr. Sean Kelishadi at SSK Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA can provide knowledgeable guidance. Whether you want to refine your figure or need advice on post-procedure care, our team is here to help. Contact our office to schedule a consultation today to discuss your body contouring goals and learn how to keep long-lasting results.

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.