What causes lipo burns?

It is very rare for this to occur, but can happen with energy devices used to perform liposuction.  I use Smartlipo (laser liposuction) and have never caused any burns.  If you go to a dermatologist or plastic surgeon with experience in these procedures, complications as such should not happen.  Seek someone with experience if you are considering these types of procedures.  The results can be fantastic if performed properly.  I wish you the best of luck, Dr. Emer.

Liposuction is sometimes accompanied by treatment of the fat with electromagnetic energy. This can Be delivered by way of laser or ultrasound. Excess heat can cause burns to the skin and should not occur with either of these techniques.

   There are a variety of things that can cause burns, but they are largely the result of thermal energy.  I have not seen a burn in thousands of cases.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA

Excellent question! Liposuction burns are from heat generated liposuction equipment such as lasers or radio wave technology and cannulas. Such energy generated cannulas first burn or melt the fat, and then the fat must be liposuction. These procedures take two steps to remove the fat and then add an additional list of complications, such as pigmentation changes of the skin and even burning the skin.
My preference is the Tickle Liposuction technology, which is infrasonic and thus generates no heat, or traditional liposuction. These procedures are faster and safer in my opinion after having performed liposuction procedures since 1982.
I hope this answers your very interesting question for you.