Complications

Complications are infrequent, although there can be considerable discomfort, particularly if a large amount of fat has been removed. Pain, bruising, swelling and numbness are normal consequences of liposuction and will usually settle within a few weeks. The following are commonly experienced by patients:

  • Nerve damage (<1% risk of permanent numbness)

  • Reaction to medications

  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

  • Shock (rare, can occur in large volume liposuction)

  • Fat embolus (<0.1% risk) and blood clots

  • Perforation of organs

  • Abnormal scarring (Hypertrophic)

  • Death secondary to liposuction is a very rare event (<1 in 100,000)

  • Infection

  • Haemorrhage (bleeding)

  • Seroma (fluid under the skin)

  • Lumpy appearance as remaining fat settles

  • Dimpling of skin and uneven surface contour

  • Over / Under correction (subjective judgment)

  • Unusual sensations

  • Fine thread veins

  • Alteration in skin pigmentation

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