Liposuction Complication

Common Liposuction Risks

Like any other medical procedure, a liposuction complcation is always a risk to patients. Although a majority of patients claim to be happy with their results, complications can include infections, embolism, seroma, puncture wounds to organs, nerve compression, swelling, skin necrosis, burns, fluid imbalance, anesthesia toxicity and even death. It's important to talk to your doctor to get all of the facts about liposuction dangers before you decide to undergo the procedure.

Fat Removal Limits Vary by Patient

Doctors determine how much fat is safe to remove based on patients’ size and health. Since every patient is different, there is no clear-cut measurement of what is considered a safe amount of fat removed through liposuction.

Possible Dangers of “Mega-Liposuction”

Mega-liposuction is the removal of a very large amount of fat, about 8-10 liters ( 17-21 pounds), during a single procedure. Because patients have suffered serious complications and even died from mega-liposuction, the dangers of liposuction procedures like this make them seldom-performed.

What Is the Most That Can Be Removed?

In general, plastic surgeons consider the removal of more than 5 liters of material to be large-volume liposuction. It's recommended that ambulatory surgery facilities be used for the removal of up to 2 liters of material. Otherwise, the procedure should be performed in a hospital surgery center to minimize the liposuction danger.

• Research extensively. There are many factors to weigh before undergoing liposuction. Choosing a reputable, board-certified plastic surgeon is crucial, and can decrease the risk of complications during and after the procedure.
• Maintain a healthy weight for your height and frame before surgery. Remember, liposuction is not a weight-loss method. For the best results, candidates should be close to normal weight with firm, elastic skin.
• Understand your options. From tumescent to laser-assisted liposuction, you and your doctor have an array of techniques to choose from. It’s important to talk to your doctor and find the best option for successful surgery and healthy recovery.
• Follow post-operative directions carefully. Your doctor will give you specific guidelines to minimize complications and speed recovery time. Moderate physical activity like walking the day after surgery can reduce the risk of blood clots and pulmonary embolisms. Your doctor may also prescribe a compression garment. Be sure to wear it as long as he or she recommends.

Don’ts

• Don’t expect to appear “skinny” right after surgery. While some people look better immediately after the procedure, the majority of liposuction patients won’t see final results for several months after recovery.
• Don’t hesitate to ask questions. Before your initial consultation, prepare an extensive list of questions and concerns. This will help you learn as much as possible about the procedure and your doctor's training and experience.
• Don’t take over-the-counter drugs or supplements until you’ve discussed them with your doctor. Products like aspirin, vitamin E and some herbal supplements can increase bleeding during surgery or affect blood clotting. Talk to your doctor about every medication or supplement you take before surgery.
• Don’t assume that liposuction is safe or effective on all parts of the body.  The most popular areas are the neck, chest, arms, waist, hips, abdomen, buttocks, thighs, knees and ankles. Your doctor will determine if you’re a good candidate for specific procedures.

The content of this website is intended to provide general information and advice. If you have questions of a medical nature, please seek advice from a qualified health care professional. For more information see Terms of Service/Usage Agreement

Learn More about Liposuction at Info.com Topics.