Possible Side Effects

Temporary bruising, swelling, numbness, soreness or burning sensations.

Risks

• Asymmetry, rippling of the skin.
• Published data indicates this may occur in up to 15% of cases and may require small 'touch-ups'.
• Infection, pigmentation changes (hypo/hyper), injury to the skin, fluid retention and/or excessive loss of blood and fluids.

Recovery

The patient usually returns to work after five to ten days. More strenuous activity may be resumed after two to four weeks. Full recovery from swelling and bruising may take one to six months depending upon the amount of fat that is removed and the areas that were treated.

Pressure garments are required to be worn for 3 weeks post operatively, day and night and then a further 3 weeks at night only.

Results

The effect is permanent and must be augmented with a sensible diet and consistent exercise. Weight gain will result in some recurrence of the fat excess, however there will be a disproportional increase in fat deposition in areas not previously suctioned.