Liposuction: Risks, Disadvantages & What to Consider

Liposuction is a procedure done by a surgeon, who suctions excess fat from certain areas of the body. Although liposuction is a common and usually safe procedure, there are risks and disadvantages to this operation. People considering liposuction should consider their overall health, lifestyle and financial situation before making a decision.

Weight Gain

• Liposuction does not prevent weight gain, and new weight may accumulate in other areas where liposuction was not performed.

Cost

• Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure and generally not covered under health insurance policies, requiring the patient to pick up the full cost of care.

Body Shape

• After liposuction, the body may appear asymmetric or lumpy if fat cells were not removed evenly.

Swelling

• According to the Food and Drug Administration, swelling may persist for several months after liposuction, resulting in a lack of improvement of physical appearance.

Pain

• Pain or numbness from anesthetics and at the incision site may linger for several months after liposuction has been performed.

Infections

• Incisions may become infected, and infection can spread to the internal organs, which can become a life threatening condition.

Recovery

• Depending on what area of the body liposuction is involved, it may take patients several weeks to regain full range of motion and muscle strength.