Can You Get Liposuction While on Weight Loss Injections?

With the rise of GLP-1 weight loss injections like Ozempic and Wegovy, many plus-size patients are experiencing dramatic transformations. But what if you’re considering liposuction to refine your body contours? 

A common question we get is, can you get liposuction while on weight loss injections before and after significant weight changes? And more importantly, will the results last?

Let’s break it down in this post.

How GLP-1 Medications Affect Fat & Skin

First off, weight loss injections work by reducing appetite and altering fat storage, leading to gradual, medically supervised weight loss.

While this is great for overall health, it has specific effects on fat and skin that impact liposuction results.

Fat Loss and Distribution

These medications target fat differently, meaning weight loss may be more evenly distributed rather than concentrated in one area.

Some patients lose more fat in the face, arms, or upper body first, which can affect body proportions.

Skin Changes

Rapid weight loss can lead to loose skin, especially in areas like the abdomen, thighs, and arms.

Remember, liposuction does not tighten skin. if there’s excess laxity, a tummy tuck or skin removal procedure may be needed.

Fat Transfer Considerations

If you’re planning a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) or facial fat transfer, be warned that Ozempic and Wegovy may affect fat survival rates post-transfer.

If you’re still actively losing weight, transferred fat may shrink over time, altering results.

Should You Stop Ozempic Before Liposuction?

The decision to pause GLP-1 medications before surgery depends on individual factors.

Some surgeons recommend stopping the medication temporarily to stabilize weight and ensure more predictable surgical outcomes, improve fat transfer survival rates (especially for BBL or facial augmentation), and reduce surgical risks, as rapid weight loss can affect skin elasticity and healing.

On the other hand, other surgeons say it’s okay to continue, as long as the patient has maintained a stable weight for at least 3-6 months, there is no active, rapid fat loss (which could affect the body’s response to liposuction), and the goal is refinement rather than major fat removal.

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Best Candidates for Lipo While on GLP-1 Meds

If you’re on weight loss injections before and after your surgery, your results will depend on timing and expectations.

The best candidates for liposuction have maintained a stable weight for 3-6 months, want targeted fat removal in specific areas (stomach, thighs, arms, chin, etc.), and understand that lipo is not a weight loss procedure, but a contouring tool.

Key Tips for Maximizing Your Liposuction Results

Liposuction has earned its place as a transformative procedure in the world of cosmetic surgery. It’s more than just an operation; it’s a journey that begins with your decision to pursue change and doesn’t end when you leave the operating table. Maximizing your liposuction results is a process that requires your active participation. […]

You’re better off delaying your liposuction if you’re still actively losing weight, as results may be temporary.

Also, don’t expect skin tightening from lipo alone. Loose skin may require a tummy tuck, arm lift, or thigh lift for best results.