Maintaining liposuction and body contouring results during the holiday season

The distinct scent of pumpkin spice on the breeze, the leaves changing colors and a chill in the morning air are all signs of fall. All that means is the busy holiday season is right around the corner, and with it, Halloween candy, baked goods, pumpkin pies, specialty seasonal cocktails and plenty of gargantuan holiday meals. It may be tempting to indulge this time of year, sneaking some candy out of your kid's Halloween bag or having another drink at a holiday party.

A hectic holiday season can also mean you don't have the time to dedicate to your exercise or wellness routine. Pair that with the overindulgences of the season, and you will have a recipe that can quickly derail your liposuction or body contouring results. Some studies suggest that Americans gain between 0.8 and 2 pounds during the holiday season. It might now sound like much, but it may be enough for you to notice some changes to your body.

What does that have to do with plastic surgery? If you've had a liposuction or body contouring procedure, especially recently, that kind of holiday weight gain can add up in the long run and jeopardize your results.

So, what can you do throughout the holiday season to maintain your liposuction or body contouring results without denying yourself what makes the holidays feel so special?

How do you maintain your results over the holidays?

No one wants to feel deprived during the holidays. Many people want to sip a fancy cocktail at a party or enjoy a fabulously big meal with family or friends. Yet, when you are deep into the holidays, navigating work, school, shopping, gatherings and family obligations, it can feel like you don't have time for working out or self-care. You may feel caught between a rock and a hard place – maintaining your expensive body contouring results or experiencing the season's specialty delights.

Karen Horton, MD, MSc, FACS, suggested to start by reflecting on how far you've come.

"To maintain results after liposuction and body contouring, it's important to reflect on all the hard work that went into your amazing results," said Dr. Horton. "From getting fit and in good physical shape, achieving an optimal body weight, investing in plastic surgery, time taken off work and your regular activities of daily living, financial costs and physical downtime – all should factor into a determined mindset and long-term dedication to keeping your results as good as after surgery!"

For some, it's all about attitude. Start by recognizing that you didn't achieve your results overnight. It took time and effort to get to where you are today. If you've come this far, chances are you know what "mental toughness" is and can make smart choices about your health and body that can mitigate the temptations of the holiday season.

It may seem cliché, but Josef Hadeed, MD, FACS, recommended everything in moderation.

"Enjoy holiday meals and parties, but don't overindulge because that can affect your results," said Dr. Hadeed. "It is important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly in order to optimize your results after liposuction and body contouring surgery. Having desserts and big meals means you have to work out more in order to maintain a calorie-neutral state."

This is such an important factor that Dr. Horton said pretty much the same.

"Consider everything in moderation – from sweets, alcohol, big meals and going back for seconds," said Dr. Horton. "Perhaps wait for a little before indulging and consider just having a half glass or small portion, and either saving the rest of the meal or dessert for later or taking a walk after dinner and congratulating yourself for maintaining your great surgical outcome!"

Tips for a healthy holiday

Staying fit, toned and in shape doesn't mean skipping your favorite dishes or activities. There are some proactive ways to maintain your body contouring results while still enjoying everything the holidays offer. Keep some of these tips in mind:

• Everything in moderation
• Eat a healthy snack before parties and gatherings to help you eat less junk food
• Maintain an exercise routine
• Go for short walks when you have time
• Go easy on the alcohol
• Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water

Last but certainly not least – be kind to yourself. The holidays are already stressful for most people. Eating a gingerbread man isn't the end of the world. Give yourself some grace to enjoy what makes the holiday season special and find time to commit to focusing on your health and wellness.

To find a qualified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, consult a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. All ASPS members are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited facilities and follow strict standards of safety and ethics. Find an ASPS member in your area.