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* Infections happen after any surgery and some physicians prescribe an antibiotic to patients having liposuction so it is important to keep
wound clean. Infections may be life threatening such as necrotizing fasciitis (bacteria eating away
tissue) or
toxic shock syndrome caused by bacteria associated with surgery.
* Embolism occurs when tiny globules of fat trapped in
blood stream blocks
blood flow to
tissue. This may cause permanent disability. Signs of pulmonary embolism are shortness of breath or difficulty of breathing.
* Drug reactions or overdose from lidocaine is fatal. Lidocaine is a drug that numbs
skin and large doses of this is used during liposuction. The effects of lidocaine are lightheadedness, restlessness, drowsiness, slurred speech, muscle twitching, and convulsions. Overdose of this drug may cause
heart to stop which is naturally fatal.
* Burns caused by
ultrasound probe during ultrasound assisted liposuction.
* Visceral perforations or puncture wounds in
organs may require another surgery and can be fatal. During liposuction,
physician does not see where
probe (canula) is, so it is possible to harm internal organs.
* Skin death (skin necrosis) occurs when skin changes color and fall off. This may also cause infection.
* Paresthesias is an altered sensation at
site of liposuction. This may be in
form of increased sensitivity in
area or loss of feeling. Some cases of this are permanent.
* Swelling
* Death
Given that
surgery had no major complications, recovery from liposuction can still be difficult.
The liposuctioned area appears larger than before because of swelling.
Special compression garments must be worn for two to three weeks to reduce swelling, bleeding, and to help contour
new body. The patient starts to feel better after a week or two after liposuction.
Walking is recommended after liposuction to prevent blood clots forming in
legs. Finally, exercise and diet will help keep your new shape.
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©Charlene J. Nuble 2005. For up to date links and information about liposuction, please go to: http://liposuction.besthealthlink.net/ or for updated links and information on all health related topics, go to: http://www.besthealthlink.net/