Liposuction, one of the most common cosmetic surgeries, can change your life by eliminating unwanted body fat. We all have those problem areas and feel as though our self-confidence would be much improved if only they would go away. Liposuction is often a simple fix; however, keeping fat off after a liposuction treatment is a battle in maintaining both your new and improved physical image as well as your physical health. A recent study gives merit to the idea that fat cells will return after lipo if patients do not participate in regular exercise.
Patients who maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle after liposuction get the best results. However, eliminated fat can return after lipo if the patient gains weight. Not to mention, this isn’t the same type of fat found directly under your skin, but one that wraps around the body’s organs. This visceral fat produces a biochemical know to increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease. Because of this biochemical, visceral fat is much more harmful than the subcutaneous fat removed in liposuction.
It is believed that liposuction actually triggers the body to produce visceral fat, though the reason for this is not fully understood. Some speculate that because the subcutaneous fat cells are removed in liposuction, the body consequently directs new fat cells to settle in an adjacent location—the visceral cells—intertwining the fat around the abdominal organs.
As a potential liposuction patient, you are probably wondering exactly how to stave off the recurrence of subcutaneous fat as well as prevent the development of visceral fat. You’ll be pleased to know it isn’t hours on the treadmill every day or rigorous workout routines, but rather a quick 40 minutes of cardio followed by simple light weight training only three times a week!
Maintaining your post-lipo body will depend on the intensity of your workouts as well as the duration. The intensity of a workout is measured by your heart rate. A low intensity cardio workout is categorized as 60 – 75% of your maximum heart rate (MHR), while a high intensity workout is 85 – 90% MHR. In order to achieve desired results, post-surgery patients should choose a reasonable cardio routine focused on exercises within the “fat burning heart rate zone”, which is generally considered to be 60 – 70% MHR. This is the range in which the body burns a higher percentage of calories from fat – your heart rate is raised while the lower intensity promotes the ability for longer workout duration.
Your fat burning zone can be achieved with a low intensity workout. While the treadmill is a viable cardio option, this also leaves the door open for all types of alternatives.
- Swimming – This is a great, low impact alternative to running. It is an especially good choice for those who are overweight or have joint problems, as it does not require you to support your own weight.
- Cycling – Like swimming, this is also a great, low impact alternative to running. You can bike outdoors or indoors on a stationary bike.
- Circuit Training – These incorporate strength exercises through weights and machines to keep your heart rate up while using muscles in your entire body.
- Hiking/Incline Walking – This is a great option to get out with other people and see some great scenery.
- Kick-boxing – This workout combines cardio with coordination and upper body strength training.
Don’t shy away from improving your life with liposuction. Simply commit to a healthy lifestyle of regular exercise to avoid the risks of visceral fat and ensure the problem areas stay away for good.