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Smart Lipo
What Happens when Liquefied Fat is Not Suctioned Out?
Liposuction techniques like ultrasonic or laser transmit energy to the fat to liquefy it. Once this fat is liquefied the body treats it as something to get rid of. If it is not removed then it becomes the body's job to get rid of it. Now it is impossible to remove every last bit of devitalized fat with liposuction (or any other technique) and the body is quite good at "cleaning up" small volumes of devitalized tissue spread throughout a wide area. The problem could come if there were collections of devitalized fat. This could lead to scar (lumps, bumps, contracture and change in shape long term) or infection (devitalized tissue is an excellent medium for bacteria).
Clinical Context
Small amounts of leftover liquefied fat are common and usually resolve on their own over several weeks as the body reabsorbs it. Mild firmness, swelling, or small lumps in the treated area during early healing are typically part of this normal process. Contact your surgeon if you notice increasing redness, warmth, fever, or a growing firm area, since these can signal infection or a larger collection that may need drainage. Wearing your compression garment as directed helps tissue heal evenly.
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