Differences between Liposuction and Bariatric Surgery

This is one of the most commonly asked questions to a Bariatric Surgeon and also one of the most common misconceptions that people have.

Liposuction and Bariatric Surgery are two extremely different things.

Liposuction is a purely ‘Cosmetic’ Procedure where excess fat deposits under the skin are sucked out through small cuts. This procedure is only and must only be performed for the purpose of body shaping/contouring. People having excess fat deposits in one or two areas of the body, especially stubborn fat can undergo liposuction. However, a person undergoing liposuction must not expect any major weight loss.

Yes, the results of liposuction are visible immediately after surgery in the form of less fat visible in the area from which it is removed. Liposuction is a safe and simple procedure which can give immediate body contouring in the desired area. However, it’s a completely wrong option for a person desiring or requiring weight loss.

Obesity and its associated diseases require a person to lose a considerable amount of weight. Non-surgical techniques for weight loss, although attractive are not completely effective or permanent.

Bariatric Surgeries are a set of techniques which are designed to give the person complete and lasting weight loss along with resolution of all the weight-related problems.

Bariatric Surgery makes a person’s own body gradually utilize all the stored body fat and thus gives a very physiological, gradual and controlled weight loss. Bariatric surgery also helps decrease a large number of weight-related diseases along with effective weight loss such as Type 2 Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol levels, joint arthritis, sleep apnea, PCOS, certain cancers etc.

Thus while Bariatric Surgery is a type of Gastrointestinal Surgery done for the purpose of reducing weight and weight-related co-morbidities, Liposuction is a Cosmetic Surgery done for body shaping and contouring.

Both are effective and safe surgeries if done for the right reason.