Liposuction is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess fat cells that may be resistant to diet and exercise alone. However, it’s not the right choice for everyone. Knowing whether you qualify for liposuction is the first step to making an informed decision. In this article, we’ll cover what makes someone a suitable candidate for this procedure, such as being at a stable weight, having specific problem areas you want addressed, and importantly, having realistic expectations about the surgery.

Suitable Candidates for Liposuction

1. You’re at a Stable Weight

When considering liposuction, one of the key factors is being at a stable weight that’s close to your ideal. Why is this important? Liposuction is designed to remove stubborn fat deposits that don’t go away with diet and exercise, not to significantly reduce your weight. If your weight isn’t stable, any fluctuations after the procedure could alter your results dramatically.

  • If you gain weight after liposuction, new fat can deposit in different areas of the body, potentially altering the results of your liposuction surgery.
  • Losing weight post-lipo could lead to loose skin in the treated areas, which might also affect your results.

Essentially, being at a stable weight helps ensure that the results you see after recovery are likely to last.

2. You Have Specific Problem Areas to Address

Liposuction is not a weight loss solution. It’s designed to target stubborn fat cells that are hard to remove through diet and exercise alone. Common areas where people choose get liposuction include:

If you have a particular area in your body you want to reduce fat (and not just your whole body), then you might be a suitable candidate for liposuction.

3. You’re in Good Health

Being in good health is crucial when considering liposuction. This means you shouldn’t have any serious illnesses that could complicate the surgery or your recovery. Good health ensures that your body can handle the procedure and heal effectively afterwards.

It’s also important to note that non-smokers often see better results from liposuction. Smoking can slow down the healing process1https://www.who.int/news/item/20-01-2020-smoking-greatly-increases-risk-of-complications-after-surgery and increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. If you’re a smoker, most surgeons will advise you to quit well in advance of the procedure to enhance your recovery and the overall success of your results.

4. You Have Realistic Expectations

Having realistic expectations is key to being satisfied with your liposuction results. Outcomes can vary significantly from person to person, depending on factors like body shape, skin elasticity, and how the body responds to the procedure.

It’s important to understand that liposuction is designed to reduce fat in specific areas — it’s not a guaranteed fix for body weight issues or a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.

Before deciding on liposuction, have an open conversation with your surgeon about what the procedure can and cannot do for you. This discussion can help set realistic goals and clarify what to expect.

5. You Have Good Skin Elasticity

One of the keys to solid results from liposuction is having firm, elastic skin. When your skin bounces back easily, it can adapt to the body’s new shape better after fat is removed. This means you’re likely to see a more toned and defined outcome – but this varies from patient to patient.

However, if your skin is looser and less elastic—often a result of ageing, significant weight changes, or genetics—liposuction alone might not achieve the look you’re hoping for. In these cases, your surgeon might recommend additional treatments, such as a tummy tuck or body lift, to help tighten the skin and achieve more satisfactory results.

6. You’re at the Right Age

While there’s no ideal age for liposuction (although you must be 18 or older in Australia2https://www.medicalboard.gov.au/Codes-Guidelines-Policies/Cosmetic-medical-and-surgical-procedures-guidelines.aspx), your skin’s quality and your body’s recovery abilities do play a role in how well you might respond to the procedure.

Younger skin typically has better elasticity, which helps with the reshaping process post-liposuction. As we age, our skin becomes less elastic and our bodies may not bounce back as quickly, which doesn’t mean you can’t have liposuction, but you might need to manage your expectations and consider additional skin-tightening procedures.

The decision to undergo liposuction should be based more on your skin condition and overall health rather than your chronological age.

7. You have Good Mental Health & A Support Network

Being in a good place mentally and having a strong support network is incredibly important when undergoing any surgical procedure, including liposuction. It’s essential to be mentally prepared for the surgery and understand the recovery process.

Surgery can be a stressor both physically and emotionally, so being stable and having people who can support you through the recovery can make a big difference in your experience and outcomes.

This support can come in various forms, from practical help at home while you’re recovering to emotional encouragement throughout the healing process. A positive mindset and good support can help you cope better with the immediate aftermath of the surgery and adjust to the changes in your body.

Explore Your Liposuction Options with Levant Cosmetic Surgery

At Levant Cosmetic Surgery, we’re here to guide you through every part of the process, from initial consultation to post-surgery care. Call us on 1300 323 772 or schedule your consultation and learn more about what Levant Cosmetic Surgery can do for you.

BOOK A CONSULTATION

Qualifications for Liposuction FAQs

What BMI do you need for liposuction?

There isn’t a specific BMI requirement for liposuction, but it’s generally recommended for individuals who are close to their ideal weight. Typically, the best candidates have a BMI under 30. This isn’t a strict rule, but being within this range usually means the skin’s elasticity is better, which helps achieve better results after the fat removal.

Is there a weight limit on liposuction?

Liposuction isn’t primarily about reducing body weight, and there isn’t a specific weight limit. However, surgeons often recommend that patients be within 5–10 kgs of their ideal weight. This guideline helps ensure that the patient has realistic expectations and that the procedure can be performed safely and effectively.

Can you get liposuction if you are not overweight?

Yes, you can get liposuction even if you’re not overweight. The procedure is designed to remove localised fat deposits, not to reduce overall body weight. It’s ideal for people who have stubborn areas of fat that do not respond to diet and exercise, regardless of their overall body weight.

 

References:

  • 1. https://www.who.int/news/item/20-01-2020-smoking-greatly-increases-risk-of-complications-after-surgery
  • 2. https://www.medicalboard.gov.au/Codes-Guidelines-Policies/Cosmetic-medical-and-surgical-procedures-guidelines.aspx

Why Choose Levant Cosmetic Surgery?

Your Choice of Doctor:
Our highly skilled medical team consists of plastic surgeons, FRACS surgeons, and liposuction doctors, and it's your choice who you decide you want to operate on you.
Patient Satisfaction:
We strive to meet our patient's expectations and prioritise their safety and satisfaction with our services.
Fair and Transparent Pricing:
During your consultation you will be provided with transparent pricing and a detailed breakdown of the costs incurred for the treatment choices that align with your desired result outcomes.
Thorough Consultations:
Every consultation is comprehensive, giving you ample time to discuss your procedural options with your doctor and receive personalised patient information inclusive of potential risks, side effects, and complications.
Exceptional Post-Operative Care:
We perform your follow-up appointments with care as we believe your aftercare is as crucial as the procedure itself. Your recovery will be guided by your doctor in collaboration with our post-operative nursing team.
24-Hour Doctor Assistance:
For any concerns or queries post-surgery our doctors are available 24-hours including after hours for their patients. In the event of a medical emergency, please call 000.
Vaser Liposuction to upper/lower torso & arms. 

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from a qualified health practitioner.
Results, recovery & potential complications will vary for each individual patient. 
Read more here - https://www.levantliposuction.com.au/risks-and-recovery/ (https://www.levantliposuction.com.au/risks-and-recovery/)
Photos & videos featured are not a guarantee that your results will be the same & do not guarantee a particular surgical outcome.
Content on our Instagram page is published with the consent of our patients.
The content featured is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice.
Images taken immediately post-operatively may not reflect final results.
“BBL” or “Brazilian Butt Lift” is the colloquial term for surgery involving fat transfer to buttocks/hips.

Surgery performed by:
Dr Mitchell Kim AHPRA MED0001187435
Dr Karen Gebusion AHPRA MED0001264960
Registered Medical Practitioners
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For more information please contact:
- goldcoast@levantcs.com.au 
- 1300 323 772 option 4
- Level 2/127 Queen St, Southport QLD

 #LevantGoldCoastDayHospital #Vaser #VaserLiposuction #Liposuction #FatTransfer #ClientsOfLevant #CosmeticSurgery
 #GoldCoast #Brisbane #Sydney #Melbourne #Perth #Australia
Have you met @drerfanrahbar from Levant Cosmetic Surgery Adelaide? Dr Erfan Rahbar MBBS FRACGP, brings his expertise to the field of cosmetic medicine, focusing on patient care and safety throughout their cosmetic treatment journey.

To book a consultation with Dr Rahbar please reach out on 1300323772.

Results, recovery & potential complications will vary for each individual patient. Read more here. https://www.levantcs.com.au/risks-and-recovery/

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from a qualified health practitioner.
Photos & videos featured are not a guarantee that your results will be the same & do not guarantee a particular surgical outcome.
Content on our Instagram page is published with the consent of our patients.
The content featured is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice.

Dr. Erfan Rahbar MED0001122411 Registered medical practitioner.
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#levantcs #cosmeticsurgery #vaserliposuction #liposuction
This patient had vaser liposuction & fat transfer to buttocks with @dr_chris_lee these are here results after 8 weeks. 

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from a qualified health practitioner.
Results, recovery & potential complications will vary for each individual patient.
Read more here - https://levantcs.com.au/risks-and-recovery

Photos & videos featured are not a guarantee that your results will be the same & do not guarantee a particular surgical outcome.
Content on our Instagram page is published with the consent of our patients.
The content featured is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice.
Images taken immediately post-operatively mav not reflect final results.

Surgery performed by:
Dr Chris Lee AHPRA MED0000947000
Registered Medical Practitioner

Want to learn more about this treatment & whether you may be a suitable candidate? Please call our team on 1300 138 797 for a consultation.
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#liposuction #goldcoast #cosmetics #highdefinition #australia #beforeandafter #results
Want to learn more about the treatments available & whether you may be a suitable candidate? Please reach out to our team for a consultation on 1300 323 772.

You can also learn more at https://www.levantcs.com.au/

Results, recovery & potential complications will vary for each individual patient. Read more here https://www.levantcs.com.au/risks-and-recovery/

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from a qualified health practitioner.
Photos & videos featured are not a guarantee that your results will be the same & do not guarantee a particular surgical outcome.
Content on our Instagram page is published with the consent of our patients.
The content featured is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice.
Images taken immediately post-operatively may not reflect final results.
.
.
#levantcs #liposuction #vaserliposuction #cosmeticsurgery #cosmeticsurgeryaustralia #goldcoast #sydney #canberra #adelaide
Vaser liposuction to upper/lower back, flanks & arms. She saw @dr_mitchell_kim & @dr_kai_gebusion 

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from a qualified health practitioner.
Results, recovery & potential complications will vary for each individual patient. 
Read more here - https://www.levantliposuction.com.au/risks-and-recovery/ (https://www.levantliposuction.com.au/risks-and-recovery/)
Photos & videos featured are not a guarantee that your results will be the same & do not guarantee a particular surgical outcome.
Content on our Instagram page is published with the consent of our patients.
The content featured is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice.
Images taken immediately post-operatively may not reflect final results.
“BBL” or “Brazilian Butt Lift” is the colloquial term for surgery involving fat transfer to buttocks/hips.

Surgery performed by:
Dr Mitchell Kim AHPRA MED0001187435
Dr Karen Gebusion AHPRA MED0001264960
Registered Medical Practitioners
*
*
*
*
For more information please contact:
- goldcoast@levantcs.com.au 
- 1300 323 772 option 4
- Level 2/127 Queen St, Southport QLD

 #LevantGoldCoastDayHospital #Vaser #VaserLiposuction #Liposuction #FatTransfer #ClientsOfLevant #CosmeticSurgery
 #GoldCoast #Brisbane #Sydney #Melbourne #Perth #Australia
Levant Cosmetic Surgery are proud to provide premier cosmetic and aesthetic procedures.

Our highly skilled medical team consists of plastic surgeons, FRACS surgeons, and liposuction doctors, and it’s your choice who you decide you want to operate on you.

Want to learn more about the treatments available & whether you may be a suitable candidate? Please reach out to our team for a consultation on 1300 323 772.

You can also learn more at https://www.levantcs.com.au/

Results, recovery & potential complications will vary for each individual patient. Read more here https://www.levantcs.com.au/risks-and-recovery/

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from a qualified health practitioner.
Photos & videos featured are not a guarantee that your results will be the same & do not guarantee a particular surgical outcome.
Content on our Instagram page is published with the consent of our patients.
The content featured is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice.
Images taken immediately post-operatively may not reflect final results.
.
.
#levantcs #liposuction #vaserliposuction #cosmeticsurgery #cosmeticsurgeryaustralia #goldcoast #sydney #canberra #adelaide