The Potential Risks & Complications of Liposuction

Liposuction is a surgical procedure used to remove fat from targeted areas of the body. It is not a treatment for weight loss and is not suitable for everyone. Like all surgery, liposuction involves risks, side effects, and a recovery period. This page outlines possible complications, signs to watch for after surgery, potential long-term considerations, and the importance of ongoing care.

Liposuction General Risks

• Infection: As with any surgery, infection can occur. Treatment may involve antibiotics and, in some cases, further care.

• Bleeding: Some bleeding is expected, but excessive bleeding may require urgent attention.

• Anaesthesia reactions: Some patients may experience mild to severe reactions to anaesthesia.

• Swelling and bruising: Common and often lasting weeks.

• Blood clots: Immobility after surgery increases the risk of clots, which can be serious.

Procedure-Specific Risks

Vaser Liposuction:

• Burns or Skin Damage: The ultrasound technology used in Vaser liposuction can sometimes cause burns or damage to the skin if not handled correctly.
• Seromas: Fluid pockets can form under the skin after the procedure, which might need to be drained.
• Skin Irregularities: There’s a risk of skin dimpling or uneven results if the fat removal is not uniform.

Vaser HD Liposuction:

• Increased Risk of Irregularities: Because Vaser HD is designed for high-definition results, there’s a higher risk of outcome irregularities if not performed by an experienced surgeon.
• Longer Recovery Time: The more detailed and extensive the procedure, the longer the recovery time can be.
• Potential for More Significant Bruising and Swelling: Given the intensity and precision of the procedure, you might experience more pronounced bruising and swelling.

Read more on liposuction risks & recovery. 

Signs to Watch For

After undergoing liposuction, it’s crucial to monitor your recovery and be aware of any symptoms that might indicate complications. Here’s what to watch for and when to contact your healthcare provider.

Post-Surgery Symptoms That Require Immediate Medical Attention:

• Severe Pain: While some discomfort is normal, severe pain that doesn’t improve with prescribed painkillers needs attention.
• Excessive Swelling or Bruising: Some swelling and bruising are expected, but if these symptoms are extreme or worsen significantly, it could indicate a problem.
• Fever or Chills: A high fever or chills can be a sign of infection and should be reported to your doctor right away.
• Redness or Warmth at the Incision Site: These can also be signs of infection. If the area around your incisions becomes red, warm, or starts to drain pus, seek medical advice immediately.
• Shortness of Breath or Chest Pain: These symptoms could indicate a blood clot or other serious complications and require urgent medical attention.
• Unusual Discharge or Odour from the Incision Site: Any unusual discharge, especially if it’s accompanied by a foul smell, needs to be checked by a healthcare provider.
• Numbness or Tingling: While some temporary numbness is normal, persistent or worsening numbness or tingling should be evaluated.

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider:

• Persistent Symptoms: If any mild symptoms persist beyond what your surgeon has advised as normal, it’s better to be safe and get them checked.
• Worsening Symptoms: If you notice any of your symptoms getting worse rather than better, don’t wait to seek medical help.
• New Symptoms: Any new or unexpected symptoms should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately.
• Concerns About Healing: If you’re worried about how your incisions are healing or if they appear to be opening up, contact your surgeon.

When in Doubt, Reach Out

It’s always better to err on the side of caution. If you’re unsure whether a symptom is normal or if you just don’t feel right, contact your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance and, if necessary, arrange for you to be seen sooner.

Potential Long-Term Complications

As with any surgery, it’s important to be aware of potential long-term complications. Understanding these risks and the importance of follow-up care can help you maintain your health and the results of your surgery.

Potential Long-Term Side Effects

• Skin changes: Irregularities such as dimpling or uneven texture may develop.

• Altered sensation: Numbness or tingling can last for months, and in some cases may persist.

• Scar tissue: Firm areas or changes in texture can occur due to scar formation.

• Persistent swelling: May last for several months, particularly after larger-volume procedures.

• Fat redistribution: If weight is regained, fat may appear in different areas than before.

• Infection: Although uncommon, infection can occur in the longer term.

Importance of Follow-Up Care & Consistent Monitoring

• Regular reviews: Follow-up appointments allow your practitioner to monitor healing, address complications, and provide guidance.

• Lifestyle factors: A balanced diet, regular activity, and stable weight help maintain results and overall health.

• Skin care: Hydration, moisturisers, and sun protection may support skin quality after surgery.

• Monitoring changes: Report persistent swelling, numbness, or skin irregularities to your practitioner.

Reducing Liposuction Risks & Complications

• Pre- and post-operative instructions: Following your practitioner’s guidance is critical to reduce risks.

• Health optimisation: Avoid smoking and alcohol, and maintain good nutrition to support recovery.

• Hydration and wound care: Drinking water and caring for incision sites may support healing.

• Compression garments: Often recommended to help control swelling and support tissues

Read more on the medical by laws of liposuction surgery. 

Setting Realistic Expectations

Liposuction can remove localised fat deposits but does not replace weight management. Results vary, and outcomes depend on factors such as age, skin elasticity, and overall health. Some patients may require additional procedures over time.

Read more on Levant CS’s open disclosure policy. 

Liposuction FAQs

Is liposuction considered high risk?
It is a significant surgical procedure with recognised risks. Serious complications are uncommon, but they can occur.

What types of liposuction are available?
Different methods exist, such as Vaser or Vaser HD liposuction, which use ultrasound energy. Each has its own risk profile, which should be discussed with a health practitioner.

Is liposuction suitable for weight loss?
No. It is not intended as a treatment for obesity or general weight reduction. It is usually considered for people near their stable weight who have localised fat deposits.

Who may not be suitable for liposuction?
Those with certain health conditions (such as uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, or immune problems) may not be suitable. Suitability can only be assessed during consultation.

Does age matter?
There is no fixed upper age limit, but health status and skin elasticity affect candidacy and outcomes.

What is the recovery time?
Many people return to daily activities within 1–2 weeks, though full recovery and settling of swelling may take several months.

Disclaimer

This information is general and not a substitute for medical advice. Only a consultation with a registered health practitioner can determine if liposuction is suitable for you. All surgical procedures carry risks, and outcomes vary between individuals.