Lipo (commonly referred to as liposuction, lipoplasty or liposculpture) is a cosmetic surgical procedure used to remove unwanted fat and reshape targeted areas of the body. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, some swelling, bruising and discomfort is normal after surgery, and it can take up to six months for the full effects of the surgery to become final. In some cases, lipo can cause additional bothersome or serious side effects.
Cosmetic Side Effects
Liposuction procedures can result in a number of undesirable cosmetic changes to the skin.
Uneven contours (including lumps or irregularities), loose or rippling skin, abnormal pigmentation and skin discoloration and unwanted scarring may occur, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. In addition to removing excess fat, liposuction is used to contour areas of the body. In some cases, this contouring can lead to asymmetries so that parts of the body are reshaped unevenly.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, a certain technique known as ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty can cause a thermal burn or heat injury to the skin.
Unwanted cosmetic disfigurations and poor results can lead to the possibility of revision surgeries or additional surgeries to correct problematic results.
Pain, Bruising and Swelling
While it is normal for lipo procedures to cause some pain and discomfort following surgery, some people may experience persistent or severe pain. Persistent swelling in the legs can also occur, along with severe bruising. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, hematomas--accumulations of blood under the skin--can develop and, in some cases, require surgical removal.
Damage to Deep Structures
Liposuction can cause serious and potentially life-threatening damage to deep structures within the body, including muscles, lungs, abdominal organs, blood vessels and nerves, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Nerve damage can lead to temporary or permanent changes in skin sensitivity.
Clots and Infection
Liposuction can cause potentially serious or life-threatening side effects, including blood clots and deep vein thrombosis (DVT)--a blood clot that occurs in a vein (commonly in the legs) that can break off, travel through the bloodstream and make its way to the lungs, where it can cut off blood flow. Lack of blood flow prevents oxygen from getting to other parts of the body and can lead to organ damage or death. Serious infections, excess fluid loss or accumulation and heart and lung complications can also occur.
Allergic Reaction
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that requires the use of anesthesia. Rarely, some people may experience side effects related to anesthesia, including an allergic reaction. An allergic reaction to anesthesia can cause life-threatening drops in blood pressure and impairment in breathing.
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