Liposuction is one of the most common surgical cosmetic procedures in the U.S. In fact, approximately 246,000 people underwent liposuction surgery in 2017, marking a five percent increase from 2016.
Many patients consider liposuction as a means to eliminate subcutaneous fat. However, studies have also linked the procedure to removing a type of fat in the blood called triglyceride, which is known to increase the risk of high blood pressure.
Health Risks Associated with Having High Blood Pressure
High levels of triglyceride can cause a hardening of the arteries or thickening of the artery walls, known as arteriosclerosis. This may increase your risk of developing several adverse medical conditions, including high blood pressure.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, develops when the blood pumping from the heart exerts strenuous levels of force against the veins. High blood pressure forms over several years and can cause significant damage to your body. This may result in several types of adverse health effects, including damaged and narrowed arteries, stroke, coronary heart disease, aneurysm and heart failure.
Typically, the recommended methods to reduce high blood pressure includes regular exercise and healthy dieting. However, several studies have found that liposuction may help patients with hypertension reduce their blood pressure by eliminating a fat called triglyceride.
How Does Liposuction Lower Blood Pressure?
Liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure that breaks up fat and removes stubborn fat below the skin. Typically, a cosmetic surgeon will perform the procedure on your waist, thighs, arms, buttocks and face. This is mainly intended as a sculptural procedure rather than a quick way to lose weight.
In 2010, a study presented by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) linked liposuction to reducing patients’ levels of triglyceride. Researchers conducting the study monitored changes in blood levels in more than 300 patients. In patients with triglyceride levels above 150 mg/dL, researchers found that there was a 43 percent reduction in triglyceride levels after receiving liposuction.
Are There Risks Involved for Patients with High Blood Pressure?
Patients considering liposuction, and other cosmetic procedures should be in good health when undergoing surgery. If you have high blood pressure and are considering liposuction, be sure to consult with your primary care physician about the procedure.
Contact Us Today
If you’re considering liposuction or have questions about the procedure, contact Carp Cosmetic Surgery to schedule a consultation. We will help you understand the benefits of liposuction and how you may prepare for the procedure.