Liposuction surgeries to remove excess fat from targeted areas of the body are typically optional procedures completed for cosmetic purposes. Patients who elect to have liposuction to reduce fat deposits should also be counseled to follow a balanced diet and an exercise plan for proper nutrition and weight management.
Liposuction
Liposuction is an elective cosmetic procedure frequently performed on areas such as the arms, belly, thighs, hips, buttocks and chest. A typical liposuction procedure is conducted in a clinic or surgery center by a cosmetic surgeon. Fluid is injected into targeted areas, and fat cells are then removed. The intention is to reduce the amount of fat present and leave a firmer, more contoured shape. Liposuction is a surgical procedure and should not be used as a substitute for healthy diet or exercise.
Building a Healthy Post-Liposuction Diet
There is no specific diet plan recommended for liposuction patients. Both the Mayo Clinic and the National Institutes of Health recommended that patients follow a healthy, balanced diet. In general, a healthy, balanced diet should include 10 to 30 percent protein, 20 to 35 percent fat and 45 to 65 percent carbohydrates. Lean protein choices such as chicken, turkey and fish and skim dairy products are lower in fat, and whole-grain carbohydrates such as wheat breads, pastas and brown rice offer excellent sources of fiber. A balanced diet should also include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Diet and Nutrition Pitfalls
Developing a healthy, balanced diet assists with long-term weight management and gradual weight loss, and can prevent liposuction patients from regaining unwanted fat. Dieters should avoid programs that promise rapid weight loss by requiring extreme dietary changes, such as cutting out specific food groups. Eating fresh foods and planning meals ahead of time can help ensure that you stick to your diet. Processed foods and fats foods often contain hidden additives, extra sodium and excess fat, and should be strictly limited.
Calorie Control
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Dietary Guidelines for Americans sets clear guidelines for daily caloric intake. Your daily calorie needs are determined according to your gender, age and activity level. For example, an active man between the age of 19 and 30 needs to consume 3,000 calories a day, while an active woman of the same age requires 2,400 calories daily. Once your liposuction procedure has been completed you should discuss your daily caloric targets with your doctor to ensure that you do not consume too many or too few calories.
Exercise
In addition to a healthy diet you should complete a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise each day. Liposuction requires a recovery period after the surgical procedure, but once adequate healing has occurred you can discuss an appropriate workout routine with your doctor. If you have been sedentary for a while you may want to slowly build up your endurance and muscle tone by starting with walking, stretching and light jogging.
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