What are the risks of liposuction?

Thank you for your question.  In the experienced hands of a board-certified plastic surgeon, liposuction is extremely safe.   That said, proper precautions and consideration of potential complications must be taken.  The most common complication is likely contour irregularities or skin laxity.  These can be prevented with proper technique and patient selection.  Infection and bleeding risks are quite low, again with proper technique and the sterile setting of an accredited operating room.  More serious problems, involving fluid overload (and resultant heart or lung issues) can be avoided by limiting the amount of liposuction performed in a single, outpatient session to less than 5 liters - and by obtaining appropriate pre-op medical evaluation of all candidates.

Thank you for your question. Fortunately, significant complications from liposuction surgery are infrequent. Liposuction surgery is one of the two most common procedures performed by plastic surgeons. Most often this surgery is performed without experiencing any major problem.The subject of risks and potential complications of surgery is best discussed on a personal basis with you when you visit us during your consultation and your preoperative appointment. The risks in most surgeries are similar. Some of the potential complications that may be discussed with you include hematoma (an accumulation of blood under the skin that may require removal), infection, changes in sensation, scarring, allergic reactions, damage to underlying structures, need for revisions, unsatisfactory results possibly necessitating additional procedures and medical risks. Other risks more specific to liposuction may include indentations and irregularities.You can help minimize certain risks by following the advice and instructions we provide, both before and after your liposuction surgery. Best of luck!Dhaval M. Patel Double board certifiedPlastic surgeonHoffman EstatesBarringtonOakbrookChicago