What are complications associated with the liposuction?

Question:
What are some of the more common complications associated with the liposuction procedure that you use in your practice?

Answer:
All surgical procedures have with them associated risks and potential complications. Liposuction is no exception to this. In my practice I use laser lipolysis with the SlimLipo system by Palomar lasers. Although the risks and potential complications are limited, they are still very real. these include, but not limited to, pain, bleeding, and infection. Seromas (accumulation of fluid), hematomas (accumulation of blood beneath the skin), and skin irregularities and residual deposits of fat are complications that are more specific to the liposuction procedure than other surgical procedures. One of the biggest potential complications is not establishing reasonable surgical expectations for the patient. I spend a great deal of time counseling patients regarding the outcome they can expect from their procedure. I explain to them that liposuction is not a weight loss surgery, but, is more of a body sculpting procedure. My patients have been estremely pleased with their SlimLipo results and I feel that we exceed their expectations.

Posted by Dr. Philip Schoenfeld