Understanding Risks and Recovery: Vaser Liposuction

Introduction

At Levant Cosmetic Surgery, we believe in providing our patients with all the necessary information to make an informed decision about their healthcare. In this section, we explore the range of possible outcomes, risks, and possible complications associated with Vaser Liposuction. Please keep in mind that individual results may vary, depending on various factors such as skin elasticity, patient age, ethnicity and preoperative symmetry and shape.

Risks of Vaser Liposuction

Complications can occur with Vaser Liposuction, as with any surgical procedure, despite our medical team’s diligence and expertise. 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

To facilitate a safe and smooth recovery process, we have compiled a list of post-operative instructions:

1. Fluid Leakage Post-procedure, small incision holes will drain blood-stained fluid for up to a week. This is normal and expected. The doctor may decide to insert drains to assist with fluid drainage, typically remaining in place for about 5-7 days. We recommend using old towels or puppy training pads for sitting and sleeping, and wearing old clothes for your trip home. We suggest purchasing a waterproof mattress protector for your bed.
2. Garments We apply a garment immediately after the procedure. This garment must be worn for 6 weeks in total: 6 weeks full-time aside from showering and massaging. If your abdomen has been treated, you will also need to wear a binder on top of your support garment for 6 weeks. The first set of garments are included in the costs, but extra sets of garments are available for purchase at the Clinic.
3. Showering For Vaser liposuction procedures, you should wait 48 hours. Assistance might be required when removing the garment for the first time, as some patients may feel faint. It is worth lying down for 5-10 minutes before embarking upon a luke-warm if not slightly cool shower.
4. Medication We routinely prescribe antibiotics, pain medication, anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea drugs, and laxatives. Please take these as directed.
5. Lymphatic Drainage Massages We recommend a total of 4 professional lymphatic drainage massages in the first two weeks post-surgery, to supplement you (and or partner) performing some daily massage for 6 weeks. For more information or to schedule a massage, please contact us directly or one of our recommended providers.
6. Follow-ups Follow-up appointments with the nursing team will be scheduled at week 1, week 2, week 6, 3 months, and 6 months post-surgery.
7. Exercise Heavy exercise should be avoided for 4-6 weeks, or 10 days if only the neck has been treated. After a week, you should be able to resume normal activities.
8. Discharge Upon discharge from the Clinic, you should return home and rest. It is crucial to be accompanied by a responsible adult for the rest of the day and overnight.

Remember, everyone’s recovery journey 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

After undergoing a Vaser liposuction procedure, you will generally need between 7-10 days off work. While most results are noticeable at the 6-week mark, the final outcomes may not be apparent until 3-6 months post-operatively. Strict adherence to pre-operative and post-operative instructions is essential for achieving the best possible results. Non-compliance with any pre-op instruction may lead to the postponement or cancellation of your procedure, which will incur costs at your own expense.

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 progress, 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 sydney@levantcs.com.au.

Possibility of Revision or Further Treatment

In certain cases, a second session or a “touch-up” might be required to achieve the best possible results. Additional costs may apply, starting at $1100, an is determined by the time needed in theatre