Is Liposuction Safe? What to Expect, Risks, and Side Effects

Liposuction is the most common cosmetic surgery for those willing to get rid of unwanted fat and make their body shape more symmetrical. The procedure is usually safe as long as it is done by an experienced surgeon, but understanding what to expect, the possible risks, and side effects from liposuction is important for anyone who considers having the procedure.

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is cosmetic surgery conducted with the aim of removing excess fat from the body, mainly on the abdomen, thighs, hips, arms, back, and chin. It is not a method of losing weight but is instead a method of reshaping and perfecting the silhouette of a body. The mechanism behind the operation is that liposuction makes use of suction to extract the cells of fats through tiny cuts on targeted parts of the body. Among the most frequently used techniques are:

• Tumescent liposuction: It uses local anesthetic, epinephrine, and saline solution to reduce blood effusion and make fat extraction easier.
• Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction (UAL): It liquefies fats before extraction using ultrasonic energy.
• Laser-Assisted Liposuction (LAL): It uses laser energy to liquefy fat cells for easy extraction.
• Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL): It uses a cannula with a vibrating action to disrupt fats before removal.

Is Liposuction Safe?

Liposuction is safe when it is performed by a board-certified and experienced plastic surgeon. The advancement of surgical techniques and technology has significantly improved the safety and accuracy of the procedure. However, like any surgical procedure, liposuction carries some risks and potential side effects. The safety of liposuction depends on such factors as:

• The general health condition of the patient.
• Amount of fat to be sucked.
• Experience and training of the surgeon.
• Surgical Aftercare and Recovery.

For a detailed information about Liposuction, explore our blog “Body Contouring – An Overview Of Liposuction, Tummy Tuck, and Other Options.”

What To Expect At Liposuction Surgery

The surgery is generally performed using local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia. Here’s what you generally can expect from your surgeon:

1. Before the surgery: A consultation will consist of discussions of your objectives, medical history, and areas you’d like to target.

2. Pre-operative advice may involve avoiding certain medications or supplements that might increase the risk of bleeding.

3. During the Procedure

• There are small incisions made at the treatment area
• The cannula, which is a thin tube, is introduced to break up and aspirate fat
• The procedure can last from 1-4 hours depending on the areas treated

4. After the Procedure

• You may experience swelling, bruising, and soreness.
• Compression garments are typically worn for a few weeks after liposuction to minimize swelling and allow the skin time to adjust to its new contours.
• Most patients can return to light activities within several days and resume normal activities by 2-4 weeks.

Side Effects of Liposuction

Liposuction is generally a safe procedure, but it may leave some temporary side effects. Side effects of liposuction include:

1. Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising of the treatment area are normal and resolve themselves within some weeks or days.
2. Soreness and Pain: Mild to moderate pain is normal and managed by prescribed pain drugs.
3. Numbness: There may be temporary numbness or tingling within the treated areas, and most people return to a sense of normalcy after several weeks.
4. Scarring: Small scars will always result at the incision points; however, they gradually fade away.
5. Fluid Collection: Fluid can sometimes collect under the skin (seromas), which may need to be drained.
6. Skin Irregularities: There may be an uneven contour, dimpling, or loose skin especially if too much fat is removed.

Possible Complications of Liposuction

Although rare, serious complications can occur from liposuction. It is very important to know these risks before making a decision about the procedure. Possible complications include:

1. Infection: Though rare, infections can occur and may need antibiotics or further treatment.
2. Blood Clots: Blood clots may form and can be dangerous in causing DVT.
3. Excessive Bleeding: Bleeding may occur during or after surgery. It is rare.
4. Anesthesia Risks: Reaction to anesthesia is rare but may occur in some patients.
5. Fat Embolism: This is a rare but serious complication in which fat enters the bloodstream and blocks blood flow.

All these risks can be minimized by choosing an experienced surgeon, following all the pre-operative and post-operative instructions, and ensuring the procedure is done in an accredited medical facility.

Who is a Good Candidate for Liposuction?

Liposuction is best suited for individuals who:

• Are at or near their ideal weight.
• Have good skin elasticity.
• Have localized fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise.
• Are in good overall health.
• Have realistic expectations about the outcome.

Conclusion

Liposuction is safe and effective cosmetic surgery for reducing the stubborn fat deposits and achieving a defined body contour when performed by a skilled surgeon. However, you need to know the risk and liposuction side effects so that you can make informed decisions. By following the advice of your surgeon, combined with a healthy lifestyle, you will be in a position to enjoy lasting results and confidence.

You would seek advice from a board-certified plastic surgeon about your objectives, concerns, and any questions you might have about liposuction. Preparation, coupled with the knowledge of what is in store for you, is an absolute guarantee for the right choice of body treatment.