Liposuction Health Article

Why the Procedure Is Performed

The following are some of the uses for liposuction:

• Cosmetic reasons, including "love handles," fat bulges, or an abnormal chin line.
• To improve sexual function by reducing abnormal fat deposits on the inner thighs, thus allowing easier access to the vagina.
• Body shaping for people who are bothered by fatty bulges or irregularities that cannot be removed by diet and/or exercise.

Liposuction is generally NOT appropriate for these uses:

• As a substitute for exercise and diet, or as a cure for general obesity. However, it may be used to remove fat from isolated areas at different points in time.
• As a treatment for cellulite (the uneven, dimpled appearance of skin over hips, thighs, and buttocks).
• In certain areas of the body, such as the fat on the sides of the breasts, because the breast is a common site for cancer.

Many alternatives to liposuction exist, including a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), removal of fatty tumors (lipomas), breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty), or a combination of plastic surgery approaches.

Risks

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

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

There are also risks associated with liposuction, including:

• Shock (usually when not enough fluid is replaced during the surgery)
• Fluid overload (usually from the procedure)
• Infections (strep, staph)
• Bleeding, blood clot
• Tiny globules of fat in the bloodstream that block blood flow to tissue (fat embolism)
• Nerve, skin, tissue, or organ damage or burns from the heat or instruments used in liposuction
• Uneven fat removal (asymmetry)
• Drug reactions or overdose from the lidocaine used in the procedure
• Scarring (skin surface may be irregular, asymmetric, or even "baggy," especially in older people)

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