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Illustrated Health Encyclopedia
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Ency. home > Surgery > F > Fat removal - by suctioning

Fat removal - by suctioning   

Overview | Recovery | Risks

Alternative names:

Liposuction

Risks

Certain pre-existing conditions should be thoroughly checked and brought under control before any surgery, including liposuction:

  • History of cardiac problems (heart attack)
  • Hypertension
  • Diabetes
  • Reactions to medications (allergies)
  • Pulmonary problems (shortness of breath, air pockets in blood stream)
  • Allergies (antibiotics, asthma, surgical prep)
  • Smoking, alcohol, or drug use

There are also inherent risks associated with receiving liposuction and these include:

  • Shock (usually from inadequate fluid replacement during the surgery)
  • Fluid overload -- usually from the procedure
  • Infections (strep, staph)
  • Bleeding, blood clot (thrombus)
  • Fat embolism (tiny globules of fat in the blood stream that block blood flow to tissue)
  • Nerve, skin, tissue, or organ damage or burns from the heat or instruments associated with liposuction
  • Asymmetry (uneven fat removal)
  • Drug reactions or overdose from the lidocaine used in the procedure
  • Scarring (skin surface may be irregular, asymmetric, or even "baggy," especially in the older patient)

Finally, make sure to review and sign any informed consent (legal) and permission for photographs.

Ency. home > Surgery > F > Fat removal - by suctioning

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