Understanding Risks and Recovery of Vaser Liposuction

At Levant Cosmetic Surgery, we are committed to ensuring patients have access to accurate information before making healthcare decisions. This section outlines some of the possible outcomes, risks, and recovery considerations linked to Vaser liposuction.

Please note that results vary between individuals. Factors such as skin elasticity, age, healing responses, and pre-existing body shape influence outcomes.

Risks of Vaser Liposuction

Complications can occur with Vaser Liposuction, as with any surgical procedure. The following is a non-exhaustive list of potential complications associated with Vaser liposuction:

1. Temporary swelling or bruising, which may affect the treated area as well as the scrotum, vagina, face and ankles.
2. Fluid collection under the skin (Seroma) or extensive bruising, including collections of blood underneath the skin (Hematoma), which may require multiple drainage appointments with our nursing team.
3. Anaemia (abnormally low iron levels) due to blood loss during surgery.
4. Infections at the incision sites or drains, liposuctioned areas or within the fat graft.
5. Permanent skin changes or irregularities, such as dimpling (“hail damage”), indentation, lumpiness, cobblestone appearances, and/or hardness. Most of these issues improve and often settle over time.
6. Slight asymmetry in results.
7. Minimal scarring. However, small scars can be permanently visible.
8. Hyperpigmentation or mottling, which can result in brown or red discolouration of the skin – again tends to improve with time.
9. Blisters or burns on the skin.
10. One potential risk of Vaser Liposuction is loose skin that may not retract around the treated area, which could require further medical attention
11. Excessive pain.
12. Numbness, itchiness, and increased sensitivity in the area (Paraesthesia), all of which usually resolves over 6 weeks but can take longer.
13. Temporary upper arm weakness post-anaesthesia.
14. Permanent motor nerve loss.
15. Side effects from local anaesthesia.
16. Dizziness or fainting spells.
17. Allergic reactions.
18. Rare cases of organ perforation during surgery. This is more likely under general anaesthesia.
19. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary emboli (PE), although these are not common. PE can lead to death. Please follow the instructions given to you by your doctor to reduce the risk of DVT.
20. Cellulite can improve, worsen, or stay the same.
21. It is important to understand that results from Vaser Liposuction may vary between individuals, and there may be a degree of unpredictability in the outcomes.
22. There is always a chance that you might subsequently change your mind about an appearance after cosmetic surgery, or your priorities might change in time, and your procedure may not be easily reversible – so it is important that you thoroughly consider realistic outcomes for now and the years to come.

Please keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list of potential risks. We encourage you to speak with your doctor to understand all the potential risks associated with your procedure.

Recovery from Vaser Liposuction

Recovery differs between individuals. Your practitioner will provide you with personalised recovery advice. However, Some general points to be aware of include:

• Fluid leakage: Small incisions may drain fluid (sometimes blood-stained) for several days. Drains may be used for 5–7 days. Absorbent pads, towels, or protective bedding can help at home.

• Garments: Compression garments are usually required for several weeks. In some cases, binders are used in addition to garments.

• Showering: Many patients are advised to wait 48 hours before showering. Some people may feel faint when garments are first removed, so support may be needed.

• Medication: Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics, pain relief, or other medications. These should only be taken as directed.

• Massage: Some practitioners recommend lymphatic drainage massage in the early weeks of recovery. This should only be done under practitioner guidance.

• Exercise: Light activity may resume after about a week, but strenuous activity is usually avoided for 4–6 weeks.

• Support: Patients should arrange to have a responsible adult present immediately after the procedure and overnight.

Remember, everyone’s recovery timeline is unique and these guidelines provide a general frame of what to expect. Always consult with your doctor and follow their advice regarding your specific recovery process. Your health and safety are our top priority at Levant Cosmetic Surgery.

Recovery Times & Specific Requirements

• Time off work: Most people require 7–10 days.

• Short-term changes: Initial swelling and bruising may last several weeks.

• Final outcomes: These are usually assessed at 3–6 months, once tissues have settled.

• Variability: Results are not predictable and depend on factors such as age, health, and healing response.

The Follow-Up Process

Regular follow-up appointments at week 1, week 2, week 6, 3 months, and 6 months post-surgery are essential to track your healing, administer treatment to expedite recovery, and address any potential issues. If you have any complaints or concerns, please advise our clinic staff. If your complaint or concern cannot be resolved by our team or you are not satisfied with the response, please contact our management team at 1300 138 797 or via email at [email protected].

Possibility of Further Procedures

In some cases, additional treatment may be recommended. This may involve further surgery and associated costs.

Key Takeaways

• Vaser liposuction is a surgical procedure with both common and serious risks.

• Results vary and cannot be guaranteed.

• Recovery involves swelling, downtime, and adherence to post-operative care.

• A thorough consultation with a registered health practitioner is essential before deciding whether to proceed.

Disclaimer

This information is general in nature and does not replace medical advice. Only a consultation with a registered health practitioner can determine whether Vaser liposuction is appropriate for you. All surgical procedures carry risks, and outcomes vary between individuals.