January 29, 2016 | Cellulite Treatment, Liposuction
Liposuction has been used for over three decades as a way to erase the buildup of fatty tissues throughout the body – whether it is in the stomach, thighs, or somewhere else. But it’s still a semi-invasive procedure that requires strict protocols and guidelines for the safety of my patients.
What are some of the complications that can occur if you don’t disclose your full health history, have an inexperienced provider, fail to follow home care instructions, or simply do not respond normally to the liposuction process?
Embolism
Not wearing compressive garments during your postoperative recovery period could lead to complications such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or even death. If you experience symptoms of sharp chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, or an elevated pulse – call 911.
Infection
Any inflammation or redness around the site of treatment should not be overlooked. It could indicate a deeper infection that can spread to the rest of your body. Carefully follow your home care instructions regarding the preparation and cleansing of your treatment site.
Bruising
Hematomas (bruises) occur when an increase of bleeding takes place. Altering the type of liposuction used can decrease the risk of post-treatment bleeding.
Irregular Surface Texture
The last thing you want from a liposculpture procedure is lumpy or uneven tissues. Poor technique is to blame in most cases, due to the manner that the tools are used. Unfortunately, cellulite deformities may continue to exist after liposuction, so those areas should be identified prior to treatment in order to prevent under or overcorrection.
Hyperpigmentation
Depending on the skin’s reaction to ultraviolet light, some people experience a fixation of pigmented tissue on the superficial layers of their skin. Avoiding sun exposure can limit the risk of this occurring, and some newer types of technology prevent the anomaly from occurring as frequently as others.
Necrosis of the Skin
If invasive liposuction is used in areas where deeper tissues need to be treated, it is possible that burning may cause necrosis or scarring of the skin. Wearing compression garments that are excessively constrictive may also interfere with the site.
Excessive Skin
If a large amount of fat tissues are removed, then it isn’t any surprise that it may leave an excess amount of skin in its place. Fortunately the elasticity of skin tissue can compensate for mild to moderate looseness following the procedure. The experience of your provider is key!
Although liposuction is an extremely common procedure and fairly safe to complete – it is extremely important that you work with a board-certified plastic surgeon to complete the treatment. Due to the evolution of modernized techniques and the possible risks involved, it is vital to work with someone who understands the highest quality of care standards. It’s what I would want for my own family, and it’s what I demand for patients like you.
To learn more about liposuction and complications of surgery, schedule an appointment with Dr. Agullo by calling (915) 590-7900 or filling out an online contact form.
