Liposuction helps create a more shapely body by removing fat through a surgical procedure. The plastic surgeon inserts a tube through tiny incisions in the skin and suctions out excess fat. Good candidates for liposuction are those who have a stable body weight and are relatively close to their desired weight but still wish to be rid of unwanted fat in specific areas. The dangers of liposuction increase when treating a large area or several areas, but, fortunately, severe complications are rare.
Skin Effects
Liposuction can have permanent unattractive effects on skin, according to the Mayo Clinic. Skin in the treated area may appear bumpy or wavy. If your skin is thin with poor elasticity, skin in treated areas is likely to appear loose, sagging or withered. Another possible negative effect is permanent dark spots caused by damage beneath the skin. Severe skin infections are rare, but may require an additional surgery, which can leave significant scarring.
Anesthesia Reactions
Although rare, some patients have a negative reaction to general anesthesia that can be life-threatening. Most liposuction procedures involve local anesthesia, which is much safer. Nevertheless, a small number of liposuction patients have developed lidocaine toxicity, as noted by the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), and deaths have occurred. Lidocaine is a nerve blocker used to suppress pain.
Blood Clots
As with any major surgery, blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or the lungs (pulmonary embolism) are possible, according to the Mayo Clinic. Fat clots also can occur. Thankfully, this side effect is rare with liposuction procedures.
Fluid Imbalances
Shifts in fluid levels can occur during liposuction, as fluids are injected and suctioned out. These fluid shifts can cause negative effects on the heart and kidneys. In rare cases a fluid and electrolyte imbalance may lead to shock. Additionally, too much fluid injected during liposuction can cause fluid to accumulate in the lungs. People with heart or kidney problems may not be able to safely have liposuction.
Organ Injury
Very rarely, a tube may penetrate too deeply during liposuction and perforate or otherwise injure an organ, according to the Mayo Clinic. These injuries may require surgery for repair, and can be dangerous or even fatal.
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