Side Effects of Liposuction

Liposuction is a relatively safe procedure, and updates in medical technology have limited the number of complications and risks. However, no procedure is perfect and there still exists the possibility of minor or even severe complications.

Minor complications are more common and most can usually be fixed. Some of these are attributed to a patient?s unrealistic expectations. Liposuction is not recommended for weight loss and will not produce any major weight loss results. Patients need to be aware of this and have a healthy outlook on the outcome of their procedure.

Skin irregularities can occur when too much fat is taken from one area. This may leave unsightly dimpling or depressions in the skin. It is important to remember that women naturally have fat stores and any area of the body that has too much removed will look abnormal. It is better to have too little fat removed, because the surgeon can always go back and remove a little bit more.

Some people experience hyperpigmentation in the areas of their incisions. Patients who naturally have more pigment to their skin may find that it lasts for up to several years. Fairer-skinned individuals may also experience this, but it will usually only last 4 to 6 months in those with less pigment.

Swelling of the legs and ankles can occur after major liposuction procedures. Bruising of the genitals is common in males and females after abdominal liposuction as a result of gravity taking over and pulling fluids downward. The use of proper compression garments can minimize these effects. Blood tinged drainage is a common occurrence and is nothing to be worried about. Adequate drainage speeds recovery.

Rare yet severe complications can include blood clots, injury to abdominal organs, excessive blood loss, allergic reactions to drugs, cardiac arrhythmias, and brain damage due to lack of oxygen during general anesthesia.

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