Different techniques may be used to assist in fat removal, including tumescent liposuction, where a solution of saline, anaesthetic and vasoconstrictor is injected into the subcutaneous tissue to reduce the bleeding and swelling by constricting the blood vessels.
What are the potential side effects and risks of liposuction?
Some side effects and risks are completely normal after liposuction and are part of the body’s healing process. While most symptoms improve with time and proper aftercare, it is important to be aware of what to expect. Common side effects include:
- Post-operative bleeding: small amounts of blood mixed with clear or pinkish fluid are normal in the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery.
- Fluid drainage: some leakage of fluids such as tumescent fluid and lymphatic fluid from liposuction incision sites is normal, particularly if surgical drains have been used.
- Swelling and bruising: these are expected after surgery and may take several weeks to fully subside.
- Mild to moderate pain: some discomfort is normal and can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief.
- Numbness or sensitivity: temporary nerve irritation may cause numbness, tingling or increased sensitivity in the treated area.
- Skin firmness or lumpiness: the skin may feel tight or uneven as it adjusts to the new contours.
- Loose skin: after liposuction, the skin may not fully retract, especially if a large volume of fat has been removed or if the skin lacks elasticity.
What are the signs something has gone wrong?
While some side effects are expected after liposuction, certain symptoms may indicate complications that require urgent medical attention. It is important to monitor your recovery closely and recognise when something is not healing as it should. Warning signs that something has gone wrong during a liposuction procedure include:
- Excessive or persistent bleeding: while some bleeding is normal, prolonged or heavy blood loss that does not slow down could indicate a problem.
- Worsening or severe pain: pain that increases rather than improves over time may be a sign of infection, internal bleeding or nerve damage.
- Signs of infection: redness, warmth, swelling, pus discharge or fever could indicate an infection that requires prompt medical treatment.
- Unusual or foul-smelling fluid leakage: if the fluid draining from the incisions is thick, cloudy or has a strong odour, it may suggest an infection or abscess formation.
- Skin discolouration: dark patches of skin that do not fade may be a sign of tissue damage or poor blood circulation.
- Breathing difficulties, chest pain or dizziness: these could indicate a serious complication such as a blood clot or fat embolism, which requires emergency medical care.
If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
