How Safe is Liposuction

Controversy about liposuction is nothing new. Questions about the risks and safety have been swirling about the procedure for many years. Any surgery carries some risk—both reactions that are unexpected, although rare, and complications that can be mitigated. If you are concerned, get informed. Liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure which removes fat from areas of the body that haven’t responded to diet and exercise. Because it is considered surgery, it is important that liposuction be done by a well-trained and board-certified doctor such as Dr. B. Aviva Preminger in the Manhattan area, who will consult with you, address your concerns, and is experienced in performing this procedure.

Let’s take a look at what you can expect from a liposuction procedure.

The procedure

Under general anaesthesia (which means you will be asleep) a cannula or small, thin tube is inserted into the area being treated, and the fat is vacuumed out. This is the most common type of liposuction, although ultrasound-assisted liposuction uses ultrasound waves to liquefy the fat, and laser-assisted liposuction uses a laser to bust up the fat and liquefy it. Liposuction is typically an out-patient procedure, but you should plan on having someone drive you home and sit with you during your recovery until the effects of anaesthesia wear off. Candidates for the procedure should have good skin elasticity, be within 30% of their ideal weight and not have any blood flow issues, heart problems, and be non-smokers.

When you go home, you may be bruised and somewhat sore; may have to wear a compression belt for two months and take antibiotics. You should be able to resume normal activities in approximately two weeks.

The Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, risks and complications may occur. However, choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon will mitigate these issues. Certain risks, although rare, may include bleeding, complications from anaesthesia, blood clots, and others that your doctor will discuss with you during your consultation and health assessment. Dr. Preminger will advise you on how to prepare for your liposuction procedure, as well as what you should do to care for yourself during your post-op recovery.

Popularity

Liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the United States. Nearly 300,000 liposuction procedures are performed in the U.S. each year. The cost of this procedure range, depending on each case, and is not usually covered by insurance. It is important that you are thoroughly informed and assured the procedure is for you. Liposuction may be right for you if you are dealing with stubborn pockets of fat that do not respond to diet and exercise.

Liposuction in Manhattan

If you would like to explore body contouring options in Manhattan or see if liposuction is right for you, please call Preminger Plastic Surgery at (212) 706-1900 for a consultation. Our staff of caring professionals will be happy to partner with you to help you look and feel your best!

Preminger Plastic Surgery proudly serves the Upper East Side of Manhattan and New York City, NY.