Body contouring is often used by people who have achieved extreme weight loss or who want to lose excess weight permanently. Doctors use the surgical procedure to remove excess fat from the abdomen, hips, and thigh region.

The procedure can also help to sculpt the body so that people can improve their figure and regain health and confidence. If you are overweight, it can lead to many health complications, and body contouring surgery is an effective way to lose the extra fat.

Although this surgical procedure can help to permanently lose weight, it is important that patients are also aware of the side effects of body contouring so that they can make an informed decision about surgery.

5 side effects of body contouring

1. Bruising and swelling – The most common side effects of body contouring are bruising and swelling. Since a significant amount of fat is removed from various places on the body, it can lead to temporary bruising and swelling. Although it can be reduced in a few days, it can still be a persistent problem in some cases. Bruises can be itchy and uncomfortable at times.
2. Risk of infection – Since surgical wounds may not heal properly, it may increase the risk of infection. If the patient suffers from other skin or health problems, it can delay the healing process and this can aggravate the condition and lead to infections. Allergic reactions to dressings and antiseptic solutions can also infect the operated area. Post-surgical care is of the utmost importance to help prevent infections of any kind. Antibiotics are commonly used to successfully treat infections.
3. Pain, scars, and change in sensation. – Since large amounts of skin and tissue are removed during the body shaping process, temporary pain may occur. Scars on certain parts of the body and change in sensation are also common side effects. Although scars are impossible to prevent in surgery, a good surgeon can keep them as discreet as possible.
4. Seroma or excess fluid – In this condition, excess fluid is trapped inside the body and begins to accumulate in certain parts of the body. The fluid is drained out of the body through tubes and this can easily cure the side effect. Depending on the amount of fluid that collects in various parts of the body, the tubes can be placed inside to drain for at least a week.
5. Risks related to anesthesia – Some patients may experience nausea after anesthesia. There may also be other risks related to anesthesia.

After surgery, you may experience a certain amount of pain and discomfort and this will most likely go away within a few days. Surgeons prescribe pain relievers based on different surgical procedures.

It is advisable to follow the postoperative care suggested by the surgeon for a quick healing. In some rare cases, multiple procedures may be necessary to achieve the desired results.

Serious complications or side effects are often rare with body contouring surgery. However, you must remember that all types of surgery have side effects and risks.

The healing process is usually slow in this surgery as large parts of the body are operated on, but with proper care and rest, common side effects can be easily controlled.