Grease off- after effects

After liposuction, observation and follow-up care by the attending physician is required. If bruising, swelling or severe pain occurs, the doctor should be available to assess the wound healing.

Prospects of success

An improvement through liposuction can only be seen once the swelling has subsided. This usually takes about six weeks. The final result is only visible after several months, depending on the size of the procedure.

Since the removed fat cells do not grow back, the fat deposits should be permanently removed. However, the few remaining fat cells can of course still store fat. In addition, a redistribution of the fat tissue can take place when weight gain occurs again.

As a result of the increase in weight in other parts of the body than before, new “problem zones” form, which may lead to greater cosmetic problems than before liposuction. In the case of liposuction on the thighs, for example, more fat can then be stored in the arms. The redistribution can also lead to an increased proportion of visceral fat.

The visceral fat accumulates in the abdominal cavity. As it increases, the risk of diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure also increases. Therefore, sufficient discipline and striving of the patient to maintain his or her weight after the surgery is necessary.

The success of a liposuction on the thighs to reduce cellulite (“orange peel” skin) also depends on the additional measures taken by the patient – namely sports activity and a healthy diet (see: Exercises against cellulite). Whether liposuction can effectively remove cellulite is controversial. In the long term it can only be seen as a supporting measure.

Complications and risks

General risks such as infections, thromboses, allergies or a temporary numbness are present with liposuction, as with other operations. Complications that limit the outcome of the procedure such as small dents, skin irregularities or asymmetries may require follow-up treatment. A rare complication can be a state of shock after excessive amounts of suctioned fatty tissue.

Patients with previous illnesses (e.g. diabetes) or smokers may experience delayed wound healing. To prevent dents, bumps or sagging of the skin, the fat must be removed evenly and gently. A thin layer of fat must remain between the muscles and the skin, otherwise adhesions may occur. In addition, not too much fat should be removed, as the skin will become wrinkled without subsequent tightening. The above-mentioned risks occur more frequently in cases of poor hygiene or, for example, incorrect thrombosis prophylaxis, as well as when risk factors such as heart failure, allergies or wound healing disorders of the patient are not taken into account.