Liposuction is a common plastic surgery technique that is often combined with other plastic surgery procedures. Liposuction is the process of removing fat from the body. It is major surgery and comes with some major risks.

Liposuction is usually done with a tool called a cannula. A cannula is a hollow tube. The cannula is attached to s suction device which allows the suctioning of fat cells. The cannula is guided under the skin and into the layers of fat where the suctioning process via the cannula is peformed by the surgeon.

Liposuction involves risks due to the fact that it is a major surgical procedure where the patient is under general anesthesia.  Some of the major risks of liposuction Include the following:

- Bruising. This is common and painful. It happens due to the cannula disturbing the skin and blood vessels of the skin. It will last about two weeks and goes away on its own.
- Swelling. a common side effect that will go away on its own.
- Scarring. The scars will be the result of the incisions. Depending on the actual amount of liposuction and if it was combined with other procedures, the severity of scarring will vary. Scars will fade with time but probably never completely disappear.
- Numbness. This occurs due to microscopic nerve damage and will usually go away with time.
- Allergic reaction to medication. This may occur and is usually avoided by careful patient screening for preexisting allergies. If allergic reaction occurs, the patient should inform their surgeon immediately.
- Infection.  Infection is a risk with any surgical procedure.  It can be minimized by careful surgeon selection and following all post operative instructions.
- Damage to skin and puncture of internal organs.  These are rare but known complications of the liposuction procedure and are usually related to the experience and skill level of the plastic surgeon and the surgical team. 
- Irregular results. This can occur when an unskilled surgeon or suctions too much or too little fat during the procedure.
- Lidocaine toxicity.  Lidocaine is used as a local anestheic and toxicity is usually avoided by careful calculation of the amount used in each are of the body based on the patient's weight.

Most complications are usually avoided by choosing an experienced and  skilled board certified plastic surgeon. Additionally, following all of the physician's orders will also help to minimize risks. Finally, being a good patient, choosing a board certified and experienced surgeon, and being honest with your surgeon are your best tools to getting a complication free liposuction surgery.