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The answer to the question “is liposuction safe?” depends on the surgeon you choose. As long as you select a skilled and experienced cosmetic surgeon, it is a relatively safe procedure. Surgeons have been performing liposuction treatments for decades. Today’s techniques are state-of-the-art in terms of outcomes and safety.

Also Read: Is Arm Liposuction Safe?

Is Liposuction a Safe Procedure for Everyone?

Not only does a patient need a good surgeon, but they also need to be a good candidate. Otherwise, liposuction isn’t safe. Not everybody can have liposuction.

There are several reasons for not being able to have liposuction. Some of these include:

  • You aren't at your ideal body weight or near it. Liposuction isn’t a weight-loss procedure. Instead, it is a body-sculpting surgery. If you aren’t close to your ideal weight, it won’t achieve the desired effect. Liposuction only removes small pockets of excess fat from one area of the body.
  • Your skin lacks sufficient elasticity to spring back after the procedure. Liposuction removes fat from beneath the skin. If the skin isn’t elastic enough, it will sag and droop after the procedure. That could result in you needing more surgery to correct the result.
  • You have unrealistic expectations of the outcomes of the surgery. It’s important to know what the result of your procedure will look like and be happy with it. If you expect to be several sizes slimmer or a totally different shape, you’ll be disappointed.
  • You have certain medical conditions. Some conditions such as heart problems or bleeding disorders make liposuction dangerous.

Is it Safe to Have Liposuction Under Local Anesthetic?

At one time, surgeons always carried out liposuction under a general anesthetic. Those days have now gone. The best surgeons today use local anesthetics when performing liposuction on patients. Many patients worry about this as they will be awake and alert during the procedure. However, this is actually far safer.

General anesthetics come with their own risks. Patients are more likely to have allergic reactions to the anesthetic. They may also suffer from vomiting and nausea afterward. There are also greater risks of serious medical problems, such as strokes or heart attacks. Patients cannot go home on the same day as having a general anesthetic, and their recovery time is also longer.

Also, the outcome of the liposuction surgery may not be as good. Surgeons must work quickly when the patient is unconscious. They cannot take their time or use the smallest tools. As a result, they may achieve a less impressive result due to the removal of less fat.

Under a local anesthetic, the surgeon doesn’t need to rush. They can take their time and use gentler techniques and smaller implements. They can also continually assess the patient’s condition, as they are awake throughout. Patients have better outcomes under local anesthetic, with shorter recovery times and the ability to go home the same day. That is why surgeons today choose to use local anesthetics for their surgeries.

What Are The Potential Risks Of Liposuction?

All surgery comes with its potential risks. Some side effects of liposuction are very common and doctors consider them normal. These include:

  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Tingling or numbness
  • Small scars at the incision sites
  • Inflammation of the treated area

In most cases, these subside rapidly within a few weeks or months. They are nothing to worry about and are usually relatively mild.

Sometimes, there may be more long-lasting issues such as:

  • lumpy and uneven skin
  • hematomas
  • persistent numbness
  • changes in skin coloring
  • Excess bleeding
  • Blood clots
  • Infection

Luckily, these effects are rare. If you choose the correct surgeon, they can minimize the risks.

How to Minimize the Risks of Liposuction

There are several ways to minimize the possible risks of having liposuction. These include:

  • Choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon. A talented surgeon will produce the best outcomes and will take greater care.
  • Following the surgeon’s advice before and after the procedure. That will help to promote a good and speedy recovery with the best possible result.
  • Avoiding smoking or vaping before and after surgery. Nicotine hinders recovery, as it affects the blood vessels.
  • Avoiding drinking alcohol or taking certain medications before and after surgery. Your surgeon will tell you about what to avoid before and after your procedure. It’s essential to follow their instructions.
  • Wear your compression garment as prescribed. Your compression garment is essential to speed recovery, reduce swelling, and achieve the best outcome. Wearing it as advised is, therefore, key.

Dr. Su at ArtLipo is a highly skilled specialist in the liposuction field. His cutting-edge techniques produce impressive results and ensure safe outcomes for his patients. Contact ArtLipo now to find out more and to arrange your consultation.