Procedures that are not too extensive can be performed on an outpatient basis on patients under local anesthesia, although some surgeons may use an epidural block instead. Extensive procedures are usually performed on patients under general anesthesia. Fluids as well as fat are lost during the procedure, so the patient will receive intravenous fluid replacement. The treated area may feel numb for a few months. Risks include bleeding, infection, excessive fluid loss leading to shock, fluid accumulation, injury to the skin, baggy or rippled skin, asymmetry, pigmentation changes, blood clots, fat embolism and organ perforation.
Major complications are rare.
Although it is extremely uncommon, death is also a risk. After suction-assisted lipectomy, patients can generally go back to work within one to two weeks and can resume strenuous activity in two to four weeks. Swelling and bruising may persist for up to six months. The best and most longlasting results from liposuction are in those patients committed to a healthy lifestyle, which includes proper nutrition and physical activity. It is similar to traditional liposuction procedures.