Possible Alternatives to Liposuction

Some alternatives to lipo may include:

• Cryolipolysis;
• Laser treatment;
• Radiofrequency; and
• Ultrasound.

First, it helps to understand what liposuction entails.

Liposuction Methods and Purpose

The procedure works best when it targets small areas of fat. Larger areas are harder to remove. During liposuction, a small tube called a cannula is inserted through incisions, and fat is removed through the tubes. The patient may receive local anesthesia and the procedure is often performed at outpatient facilities, like doctor's offices or surgery centers.

Liposuction can remove:

• Fatty tumors;
• Fatty deposits; and
• Male breast enlargement.

After the surgery, the patient may experience bruising and soreness around the treated areas. There may be swelling, numbness, and irritation or scarring around the incision site as well. Loose skin is another possible complication or side effect.

Alternatives to Liposuction

For people looking for cosmetic liposuction, doctors may first recommend diet and exercise. If that is ineffective, patients may discuss liposuction or various alternatives with their doctor.

Some examples of liposuction alternatives include:

• Cryolipolysis: A device freezes the fat cells, which eventually dissolve

• Ultrasound: Ultrasound uses sound waves to destroy fat cells. The treatment is sometimes used with liposuction to loosen the fat before the more traditional surgery.

• Low-level lasers: Lasers can liquefy fat for removal with traditional liposuction, or the body may remove it on its own.

• Radiofrequency: Radiofrequency sends radio waves into the fat, destroying it. The body will eventually remove it.

 Legal Options If Something Goes Wrong

If a liposuction or alternative procedure goes wrong and results in harm to the patient, the patient may be able to file a medical malpractice claim. To prove a medical malpractice case, the plaintiff must prove a medical professional violated the standard of care expected of other medical professionals.

 Courts generally define the standard of care as the level and type of care that a reasonably competent and skilled healthcare professional would provide under the same circumstances. So if a doctor burns the patient's skin by exposing it to the laser at a high intensity or for too long, it might be a violation of the standard of care and the doctor may be negligent and liable for any injuries.

Both economic and non-economic damages may be awarded in a medical malpractice claim. Economic damages include things like lost wages, medical bills and future lost wages. Non-economic damages are intangible things like pain and suffering, disfigurement like scarring, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Hiring a medical malpractice attorney may be a patient's best option to recover fair compensation after a faulty procedure. An attorney can review the facts surrounding the procedure and advise the client on the best course of action. Ryan, LLP is committed to protecting clients' rights in Cleveland after faulty medical procedures. Contact our office at 877-864-9495 to schedule a free consultation.

About the author of this article: Thomas Ryan