The Risks of Tumescent Liposuction

Liposuction is a procedure that has become cheaper and less invasive as demand for it has grown. Liposuction involves the surgical removal of fat from areas of the human body which have accumulated fatty deposits. Tumescent liposuction is a variation of liposuction in which a solution comprised of saline and a local anesthesia are injected into the area prior to the liposuction procedure. It is widely touted as being less painful, less obvious after the surgery, and easier to complete rapidly and with less recovery time. However, as with any major medical procedure, there are risks associated with tumescent liposuction.

Lidocaine Poisoning

• One risk of tumescent liposuction is lidocaine poisoning. In tumescent liposuction, large amounts of anesthesia, including lidocaine, are injected into the area to be liposuctioned prior to performing the surgery in order to keep potential swelling and bleeding from occurring by filling the area with fluid and dilating small blood vessels. However, if too much lidocaine is injected, serious reactions or even death can result.

Fluid Accumulation

• Another risk of tumescent liposuction is the possibility of fluid accumulation in the body. Any excess of injected fluids during the anesthesia procedure prior to the surgery can potentially result in excess fluids accumulating around the heart and lungs, which can result in breathing problems, heart problems, or even death. The effects of excess fluid are essentially equivalent to severe pneumonia or pulmonary failure.

Blood Loss

• As with traditional liposuction procedures, there is also a risk of blood loss. If the anesthesia is not properly administered, excess bleeding and hemorrhaging can result. Other risks of liposuction in any form include bruising, swelling, and the potential for remaining fat to move or shift after the procedure, causing unsightly lumps or other cosmetic issues. Before undergoing any cosmetic medical procedure, be aware of the risks and choose a competent and qualified surgeon to perform the procedure.