What to know before liposuction?

Liposuction, like any other surgery, has its risks, which can range from infection (considered rarer, but can happen), bleeding, and thrombosis, the latter being the most dangerous if not identified and treated in time.

Before any procedure, it is very important to research the plastic surgeon, especially if they are board-certified by the Sociedade Brasileira de Cirurgia Plástica (SBCP). It is fundamental that liposuction be performed in a hospital setting, which is prepared for any complications during surgery. The doctor's follow-up in the postoperative period is of extreme importance, as complications can also appear after surgery.

Often, the patient wants the surgeon to perform a larger liposuction than is possible. We, doctors, need to respect rules and limits for each surgery. In cases of liposuction without infiltration, the limit of up to 5% of body volume is followed, and for liposuction with infiltration, this limit is 7%.

*Dr. Fernando Amato is a plastic surgeon, a full member of the Sociedade Brasileira de Cirurgia Plástica, a member of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).