Liposuction is a procedure that uses a special tool to reduce inches and contour the body. A plastic surgeon makes small incisions in the skin and inserts tubes to probe and suction out fat in the stomach, sides, buttocks, neck, hips, upper arms and other areas. As with all surgical procedures, risks and complications accompany the benefits of liposuction. Complications occur more frequently with liposuction over large areas of the body, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Irregular Appearance
Liposuction may leave behind an uneven layer of fat. The result of this unevenness causes an irregular appearance to the affected area. The skin and underlying fat may appear lumpy, bumpy or wavy. This uneven appearance may be permanent. The instrument used to perform the procedure may also create pockets of fluid under the skin. The irregular appearance is more common in elderly individuals undergoing liposuction as they tend to have a loss of elasticity in the skin.
Tissue Damage
During the procedure, damage may occur to surrounding tissues. This damage is most common with ultrasound-guided liposuction. The damage to the other tissues occurs due to the heat from the ultrasonic waves emitted during the procedure. Damage to the surrounding nerves may also occur. Nerve damage may result in numbness of the liposuctioned area. This damage may be permanent or temporary.
Infection
An infection may result in the area of liposuction. Although rare, the skin infection can be severe and require possible surgery for treatment, according to MayoClinic.com. The infection increases the risk for permanent scarring.
Embolism
Embolisms are small bits of fat or blood clots that travel through the blood stream. An embolism may occur following a liposuction procedure. Blood or fat embolisms may cause permanent damage to the body or possibly death if the embolism reaches a vital organ such as the lungs, brain or heart.
Fluid Imbalance
During liposuction, the surgeon injects fluid into the area to ease the fat out of the body. Too much fluid injected into the body that can not be absorbed will cause a fluid overload in the individual. Too much fluid in the body causes organs in the body to work harder. The fluid can collect in the lungs, worsen heart conditions and cause strain on the kidneys.
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