Lipoplasty - commonly called liposuction - may help do more than remove stubborn fat deposits to improve the appearance and contour of the body. A new study suggests the cosmetic plastic surgery may also be beneficial for a patient's physical well-being.

Researchers say their findings reveal that liposuction patients experience a reduction in triglyceride levels and white blood cell counts, possibly decreasing their risk for heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

Scientists measured triglyceride and cholesterol levels in 322 patients undergoing liposuction and/or a tummy tuck. The majority of patients, 71 percent, had liposuction only.
While triglyceride levels in patients with normal pre-operative levels were unchanged after the cosmetic procedure, those patients with elevated, at-risk levels experienced an average 43 percent reduction in triglyceride levels after surgery - about twice the effect achieved with a drug commonly prescribed to reduce triglyceride levels. The effect was similar in both men and women.

"These findings suggest that patients who are considering liposuction who have at-risk triglyceride levels may reduce their risk of developing these serious health problems, while correcting body disproportions," said the study's author. "Patients not only look better, but may be healthier too."

The study also found that liposuction may reduce white blood cell counts, which can cause inflammation and have been linked to ailments including coronary heart disease, obesity, hypertension and diabetes. On average, patients who underwent the procedure saw their white blood cells decrease by 11 percent.

According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, liposuction was the second most common plastic surgery performed by its members in 2010, with more than 289,000 individuals undergoing the procedure.

During a liposuction surgery, diet-resistant fat is removed from the body through a hollow metal tube inserted into a small incision.
Common areas treated during the procedure include the stomach, buttocks, hips, love handles, saddlebags, thighs, calves, ankles, breasts, back, arms and neck.

In addition to removing stubborn fat deposits, the surgery is used to improve the body's contour. Although the results of liposuction surgery are usually long-lasting, they may be affected by weight gain, aging, pregnancy and lifestyle factors

While complications from liposuction surgery are rare, it is essential for those considering the procedure to ensure their doctor is a licensed, board-certified plastic surgeon.