Thigh Liposuction and Varicose Veins safety, precautions? Is it possible to undergo lipo if you have varicose veins?

Question

Dear Docs, I started to develop Varicose veins due to the use of BCP (I believe this is when it 'started'). Have stopped using the pills, I have lost a good amount of fat and weight and want to proceed with Thigh lipo to reshape my lower body. My calves are quite slim but I have a 'bulgy' varicose vein which is more aesthetically problematic for me but my thighs are still quite large but I can 'feel' one large varicose vein in my inner thigh but it is covered in fat still. Is Lipo a problem?

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

To my knowledge there is no contraindication to liposuction of an area if varicose veins exist. They might become more apparent in the wake of the removal of fat as this camouflage is taken away.

Thomas S. Taylor, FACS · Answer

I have performed liposuction in several patients who had significant varicose veins without any problems except perhaps a bit more bruising in one case. The varicose veins are very superficial and the liposuction would be done deeper to them. In addition, epinephrine is always pre-injected into the area as part of the tumescent technique to vasoconstrict the blood vessels in the area including the varicose veins so they are less susceptible to injury.  I hope this helps. Good luck!Thomas Taylor, MDPasadena, CA

Michael Constantin Gartner, DO · Answer

Varicose veins don't usually cause much of a problem for thigh liposuction, however it's best to see a plastic surgeon in person to determine if yours would be problematic.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Liposuction performed properly should not effect your varicose veins.  Water-assisted liposuction is the most gentle in this situation but a formal in person consultation will determine what is best.  Dr. Emer.

David Hansen, MD · Answer

Liposuction can be done easily even if you have varicose veins. Be sure to go to a doc who has experience doing lipos under local so he/she can stand you up during the procedure to fine tune everything.

Jeffrey A. Sweat, MD · Answer

The liposuction should be done more deeply in the soft tissue than the level of the varicose veins, so the answer is probably yes, but a physical exam would be necessary to confirm.  I would recommend that you consult with a board certified plastic surgeon or two in your area so you can be examined.  Best of luck!

Thigh Liposuction and Varicose Veins safety, precautions? Is it possible to undergo lipo if you have varicose veins?

Answers (6)