Complications can occur after all surgery and liposuction is no exception
Contour or surface irregularities: these may be indentations or fine pitting like a cellulite pattern. Cellulite is not usually improved by traditional liposuction and may be made worse.
Pigmentation change: the skin above the area of fat removal may develop a brownish discoloration.
Loss of skin: extensive liposuction can damage the blood supply to the skin leading to loss of skin.
Bleeding: traditional liposuction can cause bleeding which may be severe. In some cases this may collect as a blood clot called a hematoma under the skin. This may require surgery to remove.
Seroma: especially when large volumes of fat are removed a space is formed between the skin and the underlying muscle. This may become filled with serum producing a seroma. Drainage may be required to correct this.
Swelling or Edema: persistent swelling may occur especially in the lower leg and when suctioning extends circumferentially around the leg.
Bruising: almost all patients develop bruising after surgery which can persist for several weeks.
Pain or unusual nerve sensations: during liposuction nerves may be bruised and damaged. As they regenerate the patient often experiences an aching pain and unusual sensations like pins and needles.
Satisfaction after surgery: whether or not you like the result depends on your expectations. For example, you should discuss with the surgeon the location of the fat, because fat under the abdominal muscle will not be removed with liposuction. Lax abdominal muscles will only be tightened if you have an abdominoplasty.
In large volume extraction risks due to volume loss and fluid changes can occur.
Ultrasonic liposuction is a relatively new procedure and may have additional complications.
All surgery has the risk of anesthetics, local or general, and unusual reactions to drugs and medications do occur. Unknown or undiscovered medical problems or illnesses can also cause serious or life threatening problems. You must tell your surgeon about any medical problems that you know of or have had in the past.
- copyright Patrick Hudson MDPA 505/242 0070 -
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