Even though recovery after laser liposuction surgery is much easier and smoother than after traditional liposuction, patients may experience some minor side effects during the healing process. It is important that they are aware of these potential complications and know how to deal with them.
Most Common Post-surgical Annoyances
- Itching – Factors such as damage to tissues and skin, compression garments, regeneration of nerve fibers, etc., can contribute to itching. This is normal during the healing process and can be annoying. It is important to resist the urge to scratch as it can cause damage, infection and even make itching worse. Taking antihistamines or a hot shower can help manage the itching to some extent.
- Nausea – Laser liposuction using SmartLipo Triplex is usually carried out under local anesthesia. In some patients, local anesthesia, pain killers, antibiotics and general discomfort can cause temporary nausea. If such issues occur, it is advisable to take rest rather than resume normal activities soon after the procedure.
- Slight Temperature – Slight temperature elevation during the first couple of days after the surgery is the body’s natural reaction to the surgical trauma, which is absolutely normal. However, if temperature persists or occurs late in the recovery period, then it is a sign of infection and needs to be viewed seriously. Medication should be taken only after consultation with the surgeon.
- Swelling and Discomfort – Swelling due to the surgical trauma is common after the surgery, which usually subsides after two weeks. In laser liposuction, the laser energy minimizes bleeding and blood loss and there will be less bruising after the surgery. Discomfort and soreness will be high a few days following the surgery and will improve each day. Surgeons may prescribe mild pain medications for discomfort and if the pain or swelling persists, patients must notify the surgeon immediately.
- Irregular Periods – Hormonal balance can be temporarily affected by the removal of large volume of fat cells. Even though laser lipoysis is a non-invasive procedure, it can alter the body signals temporarily, causing premature or delayed onset of monthly menstruation. This irregularity may continue for a month or so after liposuction.
Being prepared is best way to deal with such complications and side effects of laser liposuction. Gather as much as information as you can about the procedure and follow your surgeon’s instructions for a smooth recovery. Side effects are minimal and complications rare when the procedure is performed by a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon in a reliable AAAASF-accredited plastic surgery facility.
