Liposuction

• A
• B
• C
• D
• E
• F
• G
• H
• I
• K
• L
• M
• N
• O
• P
• R
• S
• T
• U
• V
• W

Fat layer in skin

Liposuction - series

Fat removal - suctioning

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

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

There are also inherent risks associated with receiving liposuction and these include:

• Shock (usually from inadequate fluid replacement during the surgery)
• Fluid overload -- usually from the procedure
• Infections (strep, staph)
• Bleeding, blood clot
• Fat embolism (tiny globules of fat in the blood stream that block blood flow to tissue)
• Nerve, skin, tissue, or organ damage or burns from the heat or instruments associated with liposuction
• Asymmetry (uneven fat removal)
• Drug reactions or overdose from the lidocaine used in the procedure
• Scarring (skin surface may be irregular, asymmetric, or even "baggy," especially in the older patient)

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

Review Date: 06/10/2005
Reviewed By: Joseph P. Hart, MD, Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.