Is Liposuction Safe? What Are the Most Common Risks Associated with Lipo?

Question

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

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 certified Plastic surgeon Hoffman Estates BarringtonOakbrook Chicago

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

Keeping in mind that liposuction of any type is surgery, a qualified surgeon will emphasize safe practices. Historically the biggest risk was removing too much fat at one time, so there is a safe limit that has been established. With laser lipo (for example "smart lipo") there is a risk of burns and scars from the laser. There are 3 anesthesia options, all of which are safe if done properly and the patient is healthy. The most common is probably intravenous sedation plus tumescent. Regardless of the choice of anesthesia type or "brand" of lipo, it should be done in an accredited surgical facility even if it is tumescent only.

David Hansen, MD · Answer

Liposuction is a fairly safe procedure with minimal risks when done under local tumescent anesthesia in a healthy and appropriate patient.  The biggest risk with almost any cosmetic procedure is general anesthesia. There are more minor risks involving allergies, contour irregularities, infections, etc... but when done in an appropriate setting and with appropriately experienced docs, you should have a good experience with good results.  Sincerely,

	David Hansen,MD

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Liposuction is safe as long is it is performed by a well qualified surgeon.  The main complications are irregularities, contour deformities, fluid collections, to name a few.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Liposuction is a safe procedure when performed by an experienced Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

	The most common complications are:

	
		Contour Deformities-depressions or wavy lines in the skin caused by removal of fat too close to the skin
	
		Seroma-a collection of fluid under the skin
	
		Loose Skin-this occurs when Liposuction is done on patients who have too much fat and are not candidates  for Liposuction until they loose weight

Is Liposuction Safe? What Are the Most Common Risks Associated with Lipo?

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Answers (5)

More Liposuction Questions

Can I Get Liposuction After Coolsculpting?

Are There Special Considerations for Liposuction on Asian Patients? I Scar Easily.

Can't Live with Divots & Wavy Thighs 5 Years After Bad Lipo, What Can Be Done?

Does Less Fat Removed Means Faster Recovery? When Will I See The Final Result?

Is It a Good Idea to Get Lipo Before Marriage and Having Children?

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS