Are There Any Warning Signs I Should Watch for After Liposuction?

Liposuction surgery remains one of the most popular and in-demand cosmetic surgeries each year — helping patients of almost every age and walk of life get rid of stubborn fat and finally enjoy the slimmer, smoother contours they desire. Fortunately, the vast majority of liposuction procedures are free of complications, but patients should still keep in mind that liposuction is a form of surgery and has some associated potential risks — as most all surgeries do. By choosing an experienced plastic surgeon, however, patients can help to minimize these risks and enjoy more efficient healing and an optimal outcome. Here, double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Andre Marshall and the knowledgeable team at Andre P. Marshall Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills, CA share important information about the potential complications of liposuction surgery, including what warning signs may mean you need to call your surgeon or seek immediate evaluation and care.

Is liposuction safe?

Liposuction is widely considered a safe, effective, and even routine procedure designed for the minimally invasive removal of stubborn fat cells that have become resistant to diet and exercise. When performed by a qualified and experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon on a healthy patient, liposuction can be safe and highly transformative. Like any surgery, however, there are some risks associated with liposuction, including anesthesia-related risks, prolonged swelling and tenderness, delayed healing, infection, and others. With proper aftercare, many of these side effects can be avoided.

What are the symptoms of a complication after liposuction?

Normal and expected symptoms during liposuction recovery can include discomfort and tenderness at the incision or treatment sites, swelling, bruising, and minimal bleeding or discharge from the healing incisions. Once the incisions close, any bleeding or discharge should subside. Swelling and bruising may persist for several weeks, but these symptoms should become better over time. If post-liposuction side effects persist or become worse, it may be a sign of a complication, including infection. Additional signs of infection or complication after liposuction that warrant a call to your surgeon may include:

• Prolonged pain
• Reopened incisions (or incisions that do not close)
• Green or yellow pus or discharge from the incisions
• Warmth or redness around the incision or treatment site
• Red streaks around the incision or treatment site
• Worsening pain, swelling, or bruising
• Fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fever

If you experience more severe symptoms, including loss of consciousness, trouble breathing, signs of a blood clot, excessive bleeding, and others, visit your nearest ER or urgent care as soon as possible.

Fortunately, side effects — and especially serious complications — are rare with liposuction surgery. Again, some of the most effective ways to avoid liposuction complications include being at a healthy weight prior to the procedure, being a non-smoker, choosing a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon, and following your liposuction aftercare instructions closely.

Prioritize your health and safety by choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon for liposuction in Beverly Hills, CA

While many cosmetic surgeries are considered relatively routine in modern times, no surgery is without some level of risks — and your choice of surgeon matters. To learn more about our commitment to patient health, safety, and satisfaction in all cases, call Andre P. Marshall Plastic Surgery to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Beverly Hills board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Andre Marshall today.