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Liposuction

• Overview
• Recovery
• Risks

Alternative Names:

Fat removal - suctioning

Risks:

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

• History of heart problems (heart attack)
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Allergic reactions to medications
• Pulmonary problems (shortness of breath, air pockets in bloodstream)
• Allergies (antibiotics, asthma, surgical prep)
• Smoking, alcohol, or drug use

There are also risks associated with liposuction, including:

• Shock (usually when not enough fluid is replaced during the surgery)
• Fluid overload (usually from the procedure)
• Infections (strep, staph)
• Bleeding, blood clot
• Tiny globules of fat in the bloodstream that block blood flow to tissue (fat embolism)
• Nerve, skin, tissue, or organ damage or burns from the heat or instruments used in liposuction
• Uneven fat removal (asymmetry)
• Drug reactions or overdose from the lidocaine used in the procedure
• Scarring (skin surface may be irregular, asymmetric, or even "baggy," especially in older people)

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

• Review Date: 5/3/2007
• Reviewed By: Robert A. Cowles, M.D., Assistant Professor of Surgery, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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