Complications Can Arise With Fat Reduction Surgery

All invasive surgeries involve at least some risk. Even plastic surgery, often considered fun surgery, carries risk and sometimes complications. But the risk of complication can be minimized or avoided with some research, planning, verifying doctor credentials and following post op restrictions.

Surgeries for fat reduction such as liposuction or a tummy tuck carry risk. Statistically, less than 5% of patients who receive a tummy tuck, suffer complications. Some of the risk arises from the surgery itself, while some arises during the recovery and healing process. Research shows that some complications come from a patient's prior health before surgery. A patient in good health generally has less recovery time and less complications during recuperation. However, a person with heart disease, high blood pressure or diabetes, can develop serious problems and should be monitored.

A surgeon should have the complete medical history of a patient prior to beginning surgery. Medical history should include all medications, if the patient smokes and diet and exercise involvement. Patients who do smoke are advised to cut back on smoking at least four weeks prior to surgery and for at least three weeks after surgery. Doctors also advise no sun tanning during recovery and no major weight loss before surgery. Especially for a tummy tuck or liposuction, where the patient may be left with sagging skin.

Risks during surgery include adverse reactions to anesthesia. Although rare, it does happen. Other risks include blood clots in the legs and lungs, which is prevented by having the patient get up as soon as possible after surgery. This helps keep the blood flowing instead of clotting. Though the chances are slim, respiratory, heart disorders or even death, are possible.

Most complications occur during the healing process. Pain, swelling, soreness and bruising can last up to six weeks post tummy tuck. This is considered normal, but if discomfort lasts longer than six weeks and becomes infected or continues to bleed, it can pose a serious problem. These problems are usually controlled with medication. Other serious complications include, fluid buildup, skin loss or the formation of a large amount of scar tissue requiring a second surgery. It is very important to make the doctor aware of these situations as soon as possible. Complications are rare and not common and can be prevented or minimized with pre planning and being honest about your health. Do not hide anything from your doctor both pre surgery and post surgery.