Every surgery has possible risks, and the same is true even with a liposuction treatment. There are several liposuction complications that you need to know and discuss with your doctor. Even new liposuction techniques that use new and advanced technology still have risks involved. One example is Vaser. Although it is safer compared to traditional lipo methods, the use of ultrasonic energy may injure the skin and deeper tissues when used excessively. Other Vaser liposuction complications may include fat and blood clots. Severe forms of these risks can lead to the development of serious illness especially if the fat and blood clots migrate to the lungs.
Several surveys and studies have been done to record and show liposuction complications. One of such survey was conducted by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, which was published in Aesthetic Surgery Journal on May 2001. The survey presented the nonfatal complications from lipoplasty and lipoplasty combination procedures for 94,159 lipoplasty procedures done by ASAPS members from Sept 1, 1998 to through Aug 31, 2000. This include skin slough, ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty burns, deep vein thrombophlebitis, pulmonary embolus, excessive blood loss, fluid overload, fat emboli, cannula penetration of abdominal cavity, lidocaine toxicity, and surgical shock.
It was stated in the survey that there was a 0.0021 percent mortality rate, or 1 death per 47,415 liposuction procedures. Another study conducted by Barillo DJ et al, which is entitled ‘Fatal and Near-Fatal Complications of Liposuction’, presented two cases of extensive necrotizing fasciitis, a very fatal condition. One patient died and the other one required lengthy hospitalization, extensive debridement, and split-thickness skin grafting of 22% of the total body surface area. Although these complications rarely manifest, it is still wise to be informed about the more serious risks involved with such type of fat removal treatment, especially it is one of the most performed cosmetic procedures in many hospitals and clinics these days.
Liposuction complications must be taken seriously. Information and awareness are very vital especially that your body and safety is the subject of the matter. Remember that you are likely to experience these potential dangers and risks, therefore, you have to evaluate things carefully before making a decision. These dangers and risks are heightened if you have several procedures done in one day. You need to understand all the possible risks and how to avoid them. If they are unavoidable, then at least know the probable measures to minimize and remedy these liposuction risks. In this regard, do not hesitate to address your concerns to your surgeon and never be afraid to ask questions. Doing so will allow you to know more about the procedure that you are getting yourself into.
Traditional Liposuction