I have been very successful at this, in fact I've gained muscle while cutting. The pic in my avi is of me I think around 12 or 10 pounds lighter than before I began lifting. And I am natural. I did around 1.5 grams of protein/med carbs/ low fat. But training is most important. You need to train the same as before going as heavy as possible this way your body's natural instinct for survival will maintain your muscle.