Pain is usually quite moderate and can easily be controlled with oral medication. Any surgical procedure carries certain risks, However, liposuction has been performed in this country for over ten years, and serious complications are very uncommon. The primary limitation of the operation is that the operated area may not be completely smooth after the procedure. This light wrinkling or wavy appearance generally tends to diminish with time. The operated area is frequently numb for some time after the surgery and on occasion there are collections of fluid which gradually absorb.
Infection is very rare.
The postoperative patient who has been well informed has a lower level of anxiety, a greater sense of confidence, and a better disposition toward the postoperative phases of discomfort. The operations producing the greatest satisfaction and fewest postoperative complaints is lateral thigh removal. The operation producing least patient satisfaction is arms, followed by calves and ankles.