Liposuction is a popular cosmetic surgery procedure that removes fat from targeted areas of the body. Many patients choose liposuction to slim down and fit better into their clothes. A common question is how much smaller patients’ clothing sizes get after liposuction. The answer depends on several factors.
How Liposuction Works
During liposuction, a plastic surgeon inserts a small tube called a cannula through tiny incisions in the skin. The cannula is attached to a vacuum device that suctions out the fat. Popular areas treated with liposuction include the abdomen, hips, thighs, arms, back, buttocks, and neck. The procedure removes fat cells from the treated areas, resulting in a slimmer body contour.
Tumescent Liposuction
The most common technique used today is tumescent liposuction. The surgeon injects a sterile solution into the fatty areas before suctioning. This liquid contains lidocaine to numb the area and epinephrine to constrict blood vessels and minimize bleeding and bruising. Tumescent liposuction allows the removal of larger volumes of fat with improved safety compared to traditional liposuction.
Laser-Assisted Liposuction
Some surgeons use laser-assisted liposuction, such as SmartLipo. A laser is inserted under the skin to melt fat before it is suctioned out. This allows the removal of fat with less tunneling and pulling on the tissue. There is less bleeding and bruising. Recovery is faster with laser liposuction according to some plastic surgeons.
Amount of Fat Removed
The amount of fat removed in liposuction depends on:
- The number of areas treated – Patients may have just one area, such as the abdomen, treated or multiple areas for optimal contouring.
- Amount of fat – Some patients have minimal fat and others have larger deposits.
- Volume removed – Plastic surgeons typically recommend removing no more than 5 liters (11 pounds) of fat during one procedure.
- Skin elasticity – With good elasticity, the skin will tighten more after fat removal.
The average amount of fat removed is between 2 to 5 liters per surgery. Removing too much fat increases the risks and can leave loose, rippled skin. Having a realistic goal weight and understanding one’s skin elasticity helps determine optimal fat removal.
Typical Clothing Size Reduction
The number of clothing sizes reduced after liposuction depends greatly on the individual:
| Starting Size | Average Decrease |
|---|---|
| Size 0 to 6 | 1 to 2 sizes |
| Size 8 to 12 | 2 to 3 sizes |
| Size 14 to 18 | 3 to 5 sizes |
| Size 20 and up | Around 5 sizes |
As shown in the table, larger patients tend to drop more sizes compared to smaller patients. Someone who is a size 18 pre-surgery may end up wearing a size 12 afterwards. A patient who starts as a size 6 may go down to a size 2 or 4.
Factors Affecting Size Change
Why do smaller patients lose fewer sizes? Someone who is already a petite size does not have as much fat volume to remove. Areas with minimal fat, like the legs in a slim patient, will see little change in size. The elasticity of the skin also plays a role. Looser skin has more room to shrink down compared to tight skin on a lean patient.
Garment selection is another factor. Wearing compressive garments consistently for many weeks after surgery helps reduce swelling and encourages skin contraction. The type of clothing matters too. A piece made from stiff denim versus a flowing knit dress will fit differently after lipo.
Changes Other Than Size
While most patients are eager to drop sizes after liposuction, the benefits go beyond the number on the label. Liposuction sculpts problem spots that diet and exercise may not reach. Patients look better in their clothes with fewer bulges and better proportions.
Even if the size number itself does not change drastically, the fit is improved. Clothes drape better over smooth contours. Patients can wear slimmer silhouettes versus bulky styles to conceal problem areas pre-surgery. Self-confidence gets a boost along with the new figure.
Maximizing Your Results
How can you make the most of your new figure after liposuction? Here are some tips:
- Wear your compression garment as directed – Wearing it 24/7 as directed by your surgeon for the first few weeks encourages optimal skin contraction after swelling subsides.
- Engage in light activity – Follow your surgeon’s instructions, but gentle movement promotes circulation and supports healing.
- Avoid weight gain – Stick to a healthy diet and exercise routine to maintain your results long-term.
- Be patient for final results – It takes a few months for swelling to resolve completely and to see your final contour and size changes.
- Invest in new wardrobe essentials – Update your closet to complement your beautiful new shape!
The Takeaway
Most liposuction patients can expect to drop about 1 to 3 pant or dress sizes after surgery. Larger patients tend to go down several more sizes compared to smaller patients who have less fat volume removed. While some patients are thrilled to fit into smaller sizes, the biggest rewards are an improved silhouette and fit in clothes. Follow all post-op care instructions for optimal, long-lasting results.