Liposuction, offered by Dr. Arthur Cambeiro at SurgiSpa in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV, is one of the most popular body contouring procedures for those seeking a smoother, tighter, and firmer silhouette. While many patients have had life-changing results with liposuction, not everyone is a good candidate. Understanding what can disqualify you from getting liposuction helps you prepare for your consultation and sets realistic expectations about the procedure.
Below, we cover key disqualifying factors and highlight essential steps you can take to optimize your candidacy for liposuction with Dr. Cambeiro at SurgiSpa.
Is Liposuction Right for You?
Liposuction is ideal for individuals who are close to their target weight but struggle with stubborn fat deposits that do not respond to diet or exercise. The treatment is not meant for significant weight loss but as a means of sculpting and refining body contours.
Candidates who generally qualify for liposuction are:
- Adults within 30% of their ideal body weight
- Those with firm, elastic skin and good muscle tone
- Individuals in good physical and mental health
- Non-smokers or those willing to quit before and after surgery
- Patients with realistic expectations for surgical outcomes
If these points don’t describe you, some factors may disqualify you from liposuction at Dr. Cambeiro’s Las Vegas and Henderson locations.
What Medical Conditions Can Disqualify You From Liposuction?
Certain health issues and chronic conditions make liposuction unsafe, including:
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Severe heart conditions
- Bleeding disorders
- Poor liver or kidney function
- Compromised immune system
Liposuction is a surgical procedure requiring anesthesia, proper wound healing, and rapid recovery. Underlying illnesses can delay healing and increase risks during and after surgery.
Does Your Overall Physical Health Affect Eligibility?
Yes, physical health is a major factor in determining candidacy for liposuction. During your consultation at SurgiSpa, Dr. Cambeiro will review your medical history and may require lab tests to assess your overall health.
You may be disqualified if you have:
- Recent surgeries or major illnesses
- Active infections
- Poor skin elasticity or excessive loose skin
- Untreated hernias in the treatment area
- Chronic medical conditions that are not well-controlled
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle increases your chances of qualifying for liposuction. If you’re working to improve your health, Dr. Cambeiro can recommend steps to prepare for future body contouring procedures.
Why Is Smoking or Nicotine Use a Disqualifier?
Smoking and nicotine use can significantly impact your ability to heal after surgery. Nicotine constricts blood vessels, reduces blood flow, and increases the risk of complications such as poor wound healing and skin necrosis.
To qualify for liposuction, you must be:
- A non-smoker
- Willing to quit tobacco and nicotine products—ideally several weeks before and after surgery
If you’re a smoker interested in liposuction, ask Dr. Cambeiro’s team at SurgiSpa about cessation programs before your scheduled surgery.
Can Obesity or Significant Excess Weight Disqualify You?
Liposuction is not a treatment for obesity or a substitute for weight loss. Patients who are significantly overweight or have a high body mass index (BMI) may not be suitable candidates.
Why?
- Obesity increases surgical risks.
- Excess weight creates a greater chance of complications.
- High BMI limits skin contraction after fat removal.
Candidates should:
- Be near their target weight
- Maintain a stable weight for months before surgery
If you’re unsure, Dr. Cambeiro will review your body composition and discuss options for achieving weight loss before considering surgery.
Can Certain Medications or Supplements Disqualify You?
Some medications and supplements can increase complications, especially those that affect blood coagulation or interact with anesthesia. During your consultation, bring a full list of all medicines and supplements you take.
Blood-thinning medications may disqualify you, such as:
- Aspirin
- Warfarin
- Plavix (clopidogrel)
- Herbal supplements like ginkgo biloba, garlic, or fish oil (may increase bleeding)
Dr. Cambeiro may request you stop certain medications before surgery or consult with your treating physician regarding temporary changes.
Can Your Age Disqualify You From Liposuction?
While there is no strict upper age limit, older patients may be disqualified based on skin elasticity and overall health. Youthful, elastic skin helps ensure optimal results and rapid healing.
Considerations for older patients:
- Skin laxity may limit outcomes.
- There may be a higher surgical risk with age-related health conditions.
- Additional procedures, like skin tightening, may be recommended.
Dr. Cambeiro can evaluate your individual situation and suggest the best approach for body contouring at any age.
What Psychological or Emotional Factors Might Prevent Surgery?
Your mental and emotional well-being are essential for a positive surgical experience and recovery. Candidates must have realistic expectations and sound motivations for seeking cosmetic surgery.
Possible psychological disqualifiers:
- Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)
- Unrealistic expectations
- Pressure from others to undergo surgery
At SurgiSpa, Dr. Cambeiro takes time during your initial consultation to ensure you understand the benefits, limitations, and recovery process for liposuction.
What About Previous Surgical History or Scar Tissue?
Prior abdominal surgeries or extensive scar tissue may make liposuction more complicated, and in rare cases, may disqualify you from the procedure.
Scar tissue may:
- Make fat removal difficult
- Increase risk of irregularities
- Prolong recovery time
If you’ve had previous surgeries, provide details during your consultation for Dr. Cambeiro to make a thorough assessment.
What Happens During Your Liposuction Consultation?
At SurgiSpa, Dr. Cambeiro’s comprehensive consultation process includes:
- Discussion of personal goals and reasons for surgery
- Medical history and current medications review
- Physical examination of target areas
- Explanation of procedures, risks, and recovery
- Evaluation of skin quality, fat distribution, and overall health
- Open Q&A session to address your concerns
For details Request a Consultation.
Are There Alternatives If You’re Not Eligible?
Dr. Cambeiro offers various non-surgical options at SurgiSpa’s Medspa for those who aren’t candidates for liposuction. These alternatives include:
Learn more about Medspa services for non-invasive solutions.
What Liposuction Options Are Offered by Dr. Cambeiro?
Dr. Cambeiro offers several liposuction options, including:
- Traditional Liposuction: Effective for larger fat removal; requires incisions and recovery time.
- Smartlipo® Triplex®: Uses laser energy to tighten skin and enhance results, with less downtime—ideal for those seeking precision and rapid recovery.
Explore Smartlipo® Triplex® for more information on advanced liposuction technology.
Why Choose Dr. Arthur Cambeiro and SurgiSpa?
Dr. Cambeiro is Mayo Clinic-trained, board-certified, and has been voted a top plastic surgeon in Las Vegas for 15 consecutive years. At SurgiSpa, patient safety and satisfaction are at the forefront. You’ll receive:
- Personalized care and attention
- Extensive experience in body contouring procedures
- Transparent communication about risks and results
- Proven patient satisfaction (Reviews)
Interested in Taking the First Step?
If you are considering liposuction and want to know if you are a candidate, schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Arthur Cambeiro at SurgiSpa in Las Vegas or Henderson, NV. Visit our Liposuction page or contact us today.