Dr. Saber’s Blog

Is Liposuction Safe? How to Reduce Your Risk of Complications

To say that liposuction (lipoplasty) is popular would be an understatement. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, liposuction was the most popular plastic surgery procedure last year.

Liposuction (or lipo) is so popular because it’s such a versatile cosmetic surgery. The plastic surgeon uses a long, thin tube called a cannula to remove excess fat deposits and improve body contours. This technique can be used on just about any area of the body, including:

  • abdomen
  • calves and thighs
  • buttocks
  • neck and chin
  • upper arms
  • hips and “love handles”

What are the different types of liposuction?

Liposuction has been around since the 1980s, meaning there has been plenty of time for this cosmetic procedure to evolve. The type of liposuction surgery you receive will depend on your individual goals as well as the preference of the plastic surgeon you work with. Most of these surgeries are performed outpatient — meaning you won’t have to spend the night in the hospital. Dr. Saber’s office uses the PAL Lipo Machine for optimum patient safety and minimal recovery time.

Each of these liposuction techniques has its own benefits and risks.

Tumescent liposuction

Tumescent liposuction is the most common form of liposuction. It is safe, effective, and has a short recovery time. This procedure starts with an injection of local anesthetic and epinephrine into the treatment area. The solution makes the fatty layer firmer and easier to sculpt and constricts the blood vessels to reduce blood loss.

Is liposuction safe?

Power-assisted liposuction

The surgeon uses a special cannula that moves in a quick back-and-forth motion to break down the fat cells before suctioning them out. The advantage of this procedure is the smaller incision that targets the specific areas of the body without damaging the surrounding tissue. Unlike traditional suction-assisted liposuction, the cosmetic surgeon does not have to manually move the cannula; this makes the procedure faster and more efficient.

Dr. Saber now uses a PAL Lipo Machine in-office, eliminating the need and expense of a procedure being done at a surgery center.

Ultrasound-assisted liposuction

Sometimes used in conjunction with traditional liposuction, ultrasound-assisted liposuction (or ultrasonic liposuction) utilizes sound waves to break down fat cells in the target area. This makes the fat easier to extract.

While this type of liposuction is precise, it does have an increased risk of scarring.

Laser-assisted liposuction

This procedure uses a high-intensity laser inserted through a small access site to break down body fat. The laser energy liquefies fat deposits without damaging the surrounding tissue. When the fat is liquified, removing it is easy. 

Is liposuction safe?

Liposuction is generally safe for most people. During your initial consultation, we will review your medical history, goals, any current medical conditions, and potential risks of liposuction.

To avoid complications, the following people should avoid liposuction:

  • smokers 
  • patients with weakened immune systems
  • people with saggy or excess skin
  • patients on blood thinning medications
  • people with a history of cardiovascular disease, deep vein thrombosis, diabetes, or seizures

Good candidates for liposuction will be within 30% of their ideal weight and have good skin elasticity. Liposuction is not a weight loss procedure and cannot treat loose skin, cellulite, or stretch marks.

Is liposuction safe?

What are liposuction risks and complications?

Make no mistake, liposuction carries risks just like any other surgical procedure. Working with a highly-qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon can help mitigate your risk and decrease the likelihood of serious side effects.

Potential complications include:

  • Bleeding – in rare cases, a blood vessel may be damaged, resulting in post-procedure bleeding.
  • Reaction to anesthesia – while some liposuction procedures can be performed under local anesthesia, more invasive procedures may call for general anesthesia, which some patients are sensitive to.
  • Contour irregularities – skin elasticity is important as it decreases your risk of irregularities. Irregular contours can occur as a result of uneven fat removal or poor healing.
  • Fluid accumulation (seroma) – fat removal can create pockets under the skin which fill with fluid. If this occurs, we can remove the fluid with a needle.
  • Changes in skin sensation – you may experience some decreased skin sensation or numbness around the treated area. In rare cases, this can indicate nerve damage.
  • Fat embolism – another rare but severe side effect, loosened fat can break away and enter a blood vessel. From there, fat can enter the heart, lungs, or brain and cause a medical emergency.

How do I make sure liposuction is safe?

The first step to ensure your personal safety during this surgical procedure is to work with a skilled, trusted surgeon. Dr. Saber is a board-certified plastic surgeon with admitting privileges at area hospitals. This means that in the rare case of a complication, she can quickly and easily get you any additional care you need. When getting liposuction at a medspa or from a non-certified surgeon, you would have to go to the emergency room on your own in the case of a complication.

To ensure your safety, Dr. Saber will never remove more than the safest amount of fat possible. While it would be nice if liposuction was a miracle surgery that could remove all your excess fat, that just isn’t feasible.

After your procedure, you will be equipped with compression garments to reduce swelling and maximize your results. During your recovery period, you will also be instructed to walk a little bit every day. Keeping your body moving will reduce your risk of blood clots.

Why trust Dr. Saber for liposuction in the Los Angeles area?

Some cosmetic and plastic surgery procedures are effective, while some are non-surgical or not invasive. Yet there are always risks to be considered. 

Any facial plastic surgery or cosmetic body procedure should be left only to trained professionals. Being a board-certified plastic surgeon with years of experience means you’re not only extraordinarily well trained but also have admitting privileges at a local hospital should rare complications arise.

Whenit comes to your health and appearance, only work with someone you trust and know is qualified.

Have questions about liposuction? Call us at (877) 205-4100 or schedule a consultation online.

The practice of Dr. Saber is located in Encino, CA for patients throughout the Los Angeles area. We are also convenient to Encino, Woodland Hills, Sherman Oaks, Calabasas, Burbank, Glendale, Hidden Hills, Agoura Hills, Northridge, North Hollywood, Malibu, Topanga, Canoga Park, Reseda, Valley Glen, Chatsworth, West Hills, Winnetka, Universal City, Bel Air, Beverly Hills, Downtown Los Angeles, Silverlake, and Echo Park.

Dr. Saber graduated from Stanford University’s world-renowned medical school and did her plastic and reconstructive surgery residency at the equally lauded University of Southern California. She then completed a fellowship at New York University in the extremely challenging and delicate disciplines of hand surgery and microsurgery.

Dr. Saber offers a more sensitive, female perspective for patients of all ages, genders, and orientations. Former patients from all walks of life have praised not only their treatment outcomes but her caring, thoughtful approach to a wide array of appearance and health-related matters.
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    Dr. Sepideh Saber, MD, FACS

    👩🏻‍⚕️ Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
    🏫 Stanford/USC/NYU Trained
    🏥 Encino, CA | Book a Free Consult
    ☎️ (833) 215-0500
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    ✨ Our patient is 4 weeks post Tummy Tuck and Breast Reduction.

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Give us a call to set up a complimentary consultation with #DrSaber who will create a customized plan for you!
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    ✨ Our patient is 3 months post-op from our Tummy Tuck and Fat Transfer for her Breast Lift procedure. 

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We are absolutely thrilled with her results✨

Give us a call to set up a complimentary consultation with #DrSaber who will create a customized plan for you!

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  • What patients say about Dr. Saber

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    I was fortunate to find Dr. Saber after researching board-certified surgeons who specialize in breast cancer reconstruction revision surgery. I knew I was in good hands from the moment I spoke with the lovely and efficient Marlene, Dr Saber's office manager. Dr Saber patiently listened to my concerns and, after examining me, explained what I could realistically expect the outcome to be from another surgery. She also explained to me that she would need to review my previous surgery notes before we could discuss a possible further surgery, which I found comforting and highly ethical. I also discussed a couple of other procedures that I would like done, including fat removal from my large upper arms that had caused me great embarrassment for several years. Dr. Saber is an excellent surgeon who is incredibly kind and genuine. She truly understands the female body and the emotional aspect of body insecurities yet, she is transparent about what can and cannot be done and takes time to discuss realistic expectations and outcomes. My breast reconstruction revision surgery will take place in the New Year, but in the meantime, I have the most fabulous upper arms that I recently flaunted in a strapless dress (something I have not done in years). Dr Saber is truly one of a kind, and I still cannot believe how fortunate I am to have found her. I highly recommend Dr Saber.

    Linda DeCarlo November 29, 2023

    I don’t have enough wonderful words to describe Dr Saber and Marlene! I had a tummy tuck done this year and from start to finish the entire experience was amazing. Marlene is always so helpful and works so hard to make every detail a breeze for you. When I had my consultation with Dr Saber I was at a point of complete agony with my body. She instantly took that stress and frustration off my shoulders! As a woman not being heard by doctors for years I left that consultation with happy tears knowing I had finally found my Dr. It was a major surgery and I felt completely zen and at peace going in because she really does make you feel that safe. I didn’t think I would ever look the way I do now! She gave me the gift of having the body I kept fighting for. I will never stop recommending her.

    Monica Prusa October 9, 2023

    I saw Dr. Saber when I broke my wrist. I ended up having to have surgery. She did an excellent job and I am healing nicely. She was very professional, but was also very kind and compassionate. I would highly recommend her!!

    Sandy Schaupp September 13, 2022

    I LOVED DR SABER!!! There are a few reasons why I chose her. One was because she’s a female Doctor that was my goal who also did a good job (which I was able to confirm with all her before and after photos) and what sold me was my safety in mind. She made me feel like I was in the best hands ever along with Marlene who coordinated everything THANK YOU LADIES! Dr Saber helped me get back the body I have always desired. I had a lot of stomach fat from weight gain and I lost weight so a lot of my weight was in my front lower and upper abdomen. Now I have a super beautiful curvy body like an hourglass after a tummy tuck and lipo she did. She understood the assignment hahaha . I’m 32 years old no kids just wanted to enjoy my younger body looking and feeling beautiful and she really took good care of me. Even after hours I had an emergency due to my fault but she was there and got back to me very quickly and I’m very grateful. I also think her work says a lot because I stopped taking pain medication on the 3rd day after surgery and was fine with very minimal pain I was able to tolerate the healing process. Highly recommend going with her I just had a wonderful experience and would do it all over again if I had too. Maybe after I have kids. Thanks Dr Saber and team <3

    STEPHANIE d July 15, 2022

    Dr.Saber is by far one of the best plastic surgeons. I love how she takes her time to explain any procedure to the patients understanding. She always makes sure to answers any and all questions.From fillers to body contours she’s the one you want.

    Katherine Melara February 15, 2022

    Dr Saber is amazing! She is caring and very informative. I went in for fillers and she explained procedure step by step. I highly recommend her and look forward to future visits.

    Amanda Vazquez December 18, 2020

    Dr. Saber was friendly, knowledgeable and professional. She took time to listen, answer all my questions and was forthright in her recommendations. Her staff was friendly and helpful. I was very happy with the results and plan on going back. If you are looking for a first rate professional experience look no further she is the doctor for you!

    T R December 18, 2020

    Dr. Saber is one of a kind plastic surgeon with a heart of gold. She is a well verse plastic surgeon that puts her patient's needs before anything else. She genuinely cares about every single patient, and her work speaks for itself. I notice every post-operative result on her Instagram (@saberplasticsurgery) the patients have this glow that radiates through. I have been going to Dr. Saber for my Botox for the past 3 years, and love the results every time. I know who I will be going to for any future plastic surgery needs, and will confidently refer family and friends to Dr. Saber for any Botox, fillers, and plastic surgery consultations.

    Rudy Garcia December 16, 2020

    I have nothing but great things to say about Dr. Saber! I am so pleased with my results from a breast augmentation she performed on me back in late June! She answered all my questions and concerns before and after my surgery. She’s very easy to get in contact with and she’s so nice. She made feel so comfortable throughout the whole process. 100/10 Lover her work!!

    Amanda Villegas October 15, 2020

    Dr Saber is hands down the best surgeon! She took her time answering my questions and explained procedure in detail. After doing liposuction six months ago, I am extremely happy with my results and I appreciate her so much.

    Marlene Cosentino October 15, 2020

    Dr. Saber is so kind and thorough with her patients! She is an amazing doctor and genuinely cars about everyone she comes in contact with. I would recommend her to anyone for any hand surgery or cosmetic procedure.

    Rachel Meach October 15, 2020