Liposuction Side Effects

Liposuction is a common, generally safe surgical procedure. However, as with any invasive surgical procedure, there are a number of unwanted, usually temporary side effects that are associated with it. To make an informed decision on whether to undergo the surgery, you should be aware of liposuction side effects and discuss them with your doctor.

Bruising

• You may experience noticeable bruising that usually goes away within 2 to 3 weeks. Bruising will vary from one person to another.

Swelling

• There will be swelling in the surgically treated areas, which gradually settles over the next one to three months. You may also have swollen ankles following the surgery.

Dimpling

• Depending on the amount of fat that is removed, there will be some dimpling of the skin at the surgically treated area. If a lot of fat is removed, the skin may have an unsightly, lumpy appearance.

Scars

• There may be noticeable scars that are about 1 to 2 inches long that gradually become finer after a few weeks.

Thrombophlebitis

• You may experience thrombophlebitis--or inflammation of the veins--if the liposuction surgery is performed in the upper thigh area. This usually settles after a few weeks.

Discomfort

• You may experience some discomfort and temporary numbness in the surgically treated areas.