Complications of aesthetic liposuction and evidence-based risk-reduction strategies: A systematic review
Keywords:
liposuction, aesthetic surgeryAbstract
Liposuction is considered one of the most frequently performed aesthetic procedures around the globe. The reason behind it is that it is safe but contains some complications like infection, seroma, hematoma, contour deformities, and venous thromboembolism continue to occur, particularly in high-volume procedures or combined surgeries. However, for improving patient outcomes, there is a need for detailed assessment of complication patterns with evidence-based risk reduction strategies. The objective of the study is to systematically review all complications linked with aesthetic liposuction and summarize evidence-based and validated strategies that minimize perioperative risks. A systematic search of MEDILINE, Cochrane CENTRAL, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus was conducted from inception to the search date. The required eligible studies included undergoing aesthetic liposuction, preventive strategies or reporting complications. Moreover, two reviewers independently screened, assessed risk, and extracted data of bias using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and ROBINS-L Data were synthesized proportionally and narratively. Key findings are that complication rates were changed substantially by volume, patient factors, techniques used, and whether liposuction was combined with other procedures. From them, infection, seroma, hematoma and contour irregularities were highly common. Also, thromboembolic events are extremely rare but considered clinically significant. Strong evidence is required to support optimized tumescent techniques, early mobilization, careful patient selection, and risk stratified VTE prophylaxis. Our conclusion is that most of the liposuction complications are preventable by meticulous surgical techniques, structured risk-reduction protocols, and perioperative optimization. However, a standardized safety framework can easily minimize variability in outcomes and enhance patient safety.
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