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