Liposuction is a technique utilized to remove certain problem areas where fat just won’t go away, even with a diet and exercise regimen. While it can be very effective, liposuction also comes with some risks and is an intensive surgery. Fortunately, there are some alternatives which people can turn to if they do not want to undergo a liposuction surgery either due to the possible complications or because they want something less invasive.
Possible Dangers of Liposuction
Because liposuction involves an intense surgical procedure, there are some risks involved. Due to these reasons, many people are unwilling to utilize liposuction to get rid of stubborn fat deposits. Listed below are some of the possible side effects and complications of liposuction:
- Swelling, bruising and soreness in the treated area
- Irritation and scarring at the incision site
- Uneven skin on the treated area, including baggy or rippling skin
- Damage to the tissues under the skin
- Burning of the skin
- Permanent skin color changes in the treated areas
- Excessive blood or fluid loss, which could lead to shock
- Pulmonary edema (buildup of fluid in the lungs)
- Infection
- Fat clots
- Blood clots
- Toxic reactions to injected fluids
- Punctures to internal organs or cavities
The more serious potential risks of liposuction, such as blood clots, infection or pulmonary edemas, are very rare. However, these serious side effects could be fatal – there have been several deaths linked to liposuction. Keep in mind that the risk for these more serious side effects is much greater for individuals who are having very large amounts of fat removed, who are obese or who have certain health problems.
Liposuction Alternatives: Pros and Cons
Most liposuction alternatives are created to be safer than liposuction since potential risks of surgery and anesthesia scare people away from getting the procedure done. However, the most important thing to keep in mind when choosing a liposuction alternative is whether it has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Here is one liposuction alternative which has received this important “approved” status from the FDA:
- Zerona: This method involves a medical laser. When the laser is used on problem areas like the waist, hips or thighs, it utilizes cold energy to force fat out of the cells. Then, the body eliminates the fat on its own. Because Zerona is non-invasive, it poses fewer risks that liposuction surgery. Plus, patients report little to no pain and can remain active during their treatments since no recovery time is required. It does come with some potential side effects, however, including possible uneven skin surfaces in the treated areas. However, this is not a common side effect and there appear to be no serious health risks associated with the procedure as long as protective eyewear is worn to avoid any possible eye damage from the lasers used during the procedure.