Fat Removal
Large Volume Liposuction: How Much Fat Can Be Removed?
If you are a plus-sized individual who has struggled with stubborn fat, know you are not alone.
Thanks to modern treatments and techniques, solutions like large-volume liposuction allow you to remove vast quantities of fat at once. Not only is it now possible to remove higher amounts, but doing so is safer and more reliable than before.
With modern techniques like AirSculpt, large-volume fat removal is possible in one minimally invasive sitting. Patients should know that these treatments are not designed for weight loss like bariatric surgery,
This guide will explore the ins and outs of large-volume liposuction, shedding light on its benefits, risks, and everything else you should know. Whether you're thinking about this procedure or simply curious about how many sizes it can help you go down, read on to discover how it can help you achieve your body goals.
What is Large-Volume Liposuction?
Large-volume liposuction, or LVL, is a surgical procedure designed to remove significant amounts of excess fat from various body areas. This procedure enables individuals with a higher body mass index (BMI) to attain a major change and a more proportionate look.
Traditional fat removal with liposuction primarily targets small localized fat deposits. By contrast, large-volume liposuction is performed on patients seeking substantial fat reduction and body contouring.
Most liposuction procedures remove up to a couple of liters of fat. By contrast, the LVL approach can remove up to the state limit, usually around five liters.
The Science Behind Large-Volume Liposuction
During an LVL procedure, a skilled surgeon uses a cannula—a thin, hollow tube—to suction out excess fat from specific target areas. This technique breaks down fat cells, making them easier to remove. The surgeon strategically inserts the cannula through small incisions in the skin, minimizing scarring. Traditional large-volume liposuction is often done under general anesthesia, but new approaches now use local anesthesia instead.
How Much Does Large-Volume Liposuction Remove?
The amount can vary depending on the legal state limit. Most consider four to five liters of fat removal an LVL case. In some instances, high-volume lipo may remove even more than that if allowed in your state.
Before the development of a technique called tumescent liposuction, this level of fat removal would have been medically impossible.
As the renowned cosmetic surgeon and inventor of AirSculpt, Dr. Aaron Rollins, describes in the video above, five liters of fat can be removed in one session. However, patients needing additional fat removal can return for a stage procedure 48 hours later to target the remaining fat pockets.
Benefits of Large-Volume Liposuction
Large-volume liposuction offers numerous advantages beyond fat reduction. With newer liposculpture methods like AirSculpt, patients can enjoy all the benefits, along with faster downtime and less discomfort.
Let's explore some of the most notable benefits this transformative procedure can provide:
Dramatic Body Transformation
Large-volume liposuction is beneficial for those seeking a significant change to their figure. This procedure can help sculpt different body areas, enhancing natural curves and contours while promoting a more balanced look. Whether you want a slimmer waistline, leaner thighs, or a more chiseled chin, large-volume liposuction can assist in achieving your aesthetic goals. Fat transfers can also be included during an LVL case to define your new figure further and add natural volume to target areas.
Improved Confidence and Self-Esteem
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Excess fat in specific body areas can take a toll on your self-confidence. Large-volume liposuction empowers individuals to shed unwanted fat and embrace a more positive self-image. By sculpting the body and reducing fat deposits, this procedure can boost confidence levels and help patients feel more comfortable in their skin.
Take our featured AirSculpt patient, Precious, for example. As she explained, her dramatic results prompted her to hire a trainer, adopt a healthy diet, and work to keep the new shape she loves.
Long-Lasting Results
Large-volume liposuction provides enduring results, making it an excellent investment in your body and self-esteem. Unlike temporary solutions, such as crash diets or quick-fix weight loss programs, LVL permanently removes excess fat cells from the body. Because the number of fat cells remains constant in grown adults, treated areas end up with a permanently lower amount of fat than before.
However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, is crucial to prolonging and optimizing the procedure's outcomes. Because the remaining fat cells can expand, results can be lost if weight is gained after treatment.
Enhanced Physical Comfort
Excess fat can lead to physical discomfort and restricted mobility. One typical issue for larger patients is when their inner thighs rub together, leading to chafing.
Large-volume liposuction eliminates those burdens by reducing fat volume in problematic areas. By removing excess fat, this procedure can alleviate physical discomfort, improve mobility, and allow individuals to engage in activities they previously found challenging.
Minimally Invasive
New approaches like AirSculpt can remove up to five liters, all without using a needle, scalpel, or stitches. Minimal blood is lost with this approach, results are more precise thanks to the automated tools used, and patients always remain wide awake. Other practices often use general anesthesia during large-volume liposuction, which only adds risks to the process.
Besides fewer risks, patients often enjoy the benefit of going down several waist sizes during one session. This result not only offers a massive boost to self-esteem, but it can help health conditions like high blood pressure. Other research has found that following large-volume liposuction, some patients' cholesterol levels decreased, and insulin resistance levels increased.
Versatility and Customization
One of the significant advantages of large-volume liposuction is its versatility options. The procedure can be tailored to address specific problem areas, such as the belly, hips, thighs, buttocks, or arms. Moreover, it can be combined with other treatments, such as breast augmentation, tummy tucks, or minimally invasive skin tightening to enhance the overall body transformation further.
Candidates for Large Volume Liposuction
Large-volume liposuction is generally suitable for individuals with good overall health and realistic expectations. However, consulting with a qualified plastic surgeon is essential to determine if you are the right candidate for the procedure. Factors such as your medical history, body mass index (BMI), and specific goals will be taken into account during the consult.
While there is no BMI limit with AirSculpt, results from large-volume fat removal may be best in those within 50 pounds of their target weight.
What Are The Side Effects of LVL?
Like any surgical procedure, large-volume liposuction carries some risks. These can include infection, bleeding, scarring, uneven contours, and fluid accumulation. However, by choosing an experienced and board-certified plastic surgeon and following all pre and post-op guidance, the risks can be reduced.
How Long is Recovery After Large Volume Liposuction?
The recovery period can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and individual factors. Generally, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated areas for a few weeks. Following the surgeon's post-operative instructions is essential, including wearing compression garments, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments.
With the AirSculpt approach, patients enjoy faster healing and less downtime than traditional liposuction. Still, they can expect to need about two days before returning to their daily routines.
Can Large-Volume Liposuction Help With Weight Loss?
While plus-sized liposuction can remove significant amounts of fat, it is not a weight-loss procedure. This treatment is a body contouring method designed to smooth and sculpt parts of the body. It is crucial to have realistic expectations and understand that the primary goal of LVL is body contouring and sculpting.
That said, many patients, including Precious in the example above and our featured Dallas patient below, use the results of their treatment to kick-start weight loss transformations.
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Where Can I Receive Large Volume Liposuction?
Rather than opting for traditional liposuction, use the next-generation AirSculpt fat removal approach. With a downtime of 48 hours on average, freckle-sized entry points, and fully awake treatments, their wide range of solutions have you covered.
Find the body sculpting office nearest you to begin a free consultation and learn more about AirSculpt's large-volume fat removal solutions.
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