Liposuction is one of the most popular plastic surgeries, yet there are still a number of myths that may deter or encourage certain individuals to undergo the fat-removal procedure. To avoid opting for liposuction while under misconceptions about the technique, prospective patients should be sure to educate themselves.

According to the media agency Newsmax.com, one of the most common myths about liposuction is that it can serve as a weight loss tactic for those who are overweight or obese. Experts say that, while the procedure can be an effective way to target certain problem areas in those who maintain a healthy weight, it's not safe to use it as a primary method of weight loss.

Similarly, many people believe that fat cannot return after liposuction, but that is not the case. Patients can easily gain weight back in their problem areas by slipping into an unhealthy routine such as eating poorly or not exercising.

Liposuction is a permanent fix for body contouring and ideal for those who are willing to maintain a healthy lifestyle and follow postsurgical guidelines. Advancements in the procedure have brought down the costs and dispel the idea that liposuction is a particularly expensive procedure.

While plastic surgery in general is more common in women, according to plastic surgery statistics from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, liposuction was the most common surgical procedure among men in 2009, with more than 40,000 men undergoing the procedure.