Liposuction News
Liposuction Not Good Treatment For Obese Kids
In response to the recent media coverage of teens seeking plastic surgery, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) warns that tummy tucks and liposuction are not suitable treatments for weight loss for people of any age.
Diet and Exercise the Healthier Option
A recent article in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (PRS), the ASPS’ official medical journal, discusses the absence of scientific data validating the use of liposuction to battle childhood obesity.
“The teenage years can be extremely tough for kids who are teased about their weight; however, liposuction and tummy tucks are not the answer,” said Roxanne Guy, MD, ASPS president. “My message to young kids – proper diet and exercise are still the best ways to slim down.”
In 2004, the New England Journal of Medicine found that liposuction does not offer the same health benefits as weight loss caused by diet and exercise.
Mental Health Benefits Still Possible
“There is no doubt some teenagers may physically and psychologically benefit from having plastic surgery,” said associate professor of psychology at the Center for Human Appearance, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, and lead author of the PRS article, David Sarwer, Ph.D.
“For example, ear surgery or nose reshaping may significantly improve a teenager’s self-esteem and body image. The desire to be thin, no matter how strong, does not justify the use of body contouring procedures to treat childhood obesity when there is no data supporting their effectiveness,” said Sarwer.
Dr. Guy said, “Liposuction can be ideal for patients who have reached physical maturity, are at or near their ideal body weight, and have stubborn, localized deposits of fat they want removed. The best candidates for a tummy tuck are those bothered by large fat deposits or a loss of skin elasticity resulting in loose abdominal skin that won’t respond to diet or exercise.”
Considering liposuction?
If you are considering liposuction or any other plastic surgery procedure, please contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon near you. We can answer all your questions and help you plan the best way to achieve your desired results.
