Safety issues in ultrasound-assisted large-volume lipoplasty

Ultrasound-assisted large volume lipoplasty is controversial because of the potential for increased morbidity and mortality. The plastic surgeon must pay attention to details in patient selection, anesthesia considerations, intraoperative fluid balance, and the technical aspects of ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty to be consistently successful. The avoidance or early detection of complications such as intracavitary penetrations, fluid overload, hypovolemia, deep venous thrombosis, and lidocaine toxicity requires frequent examination by the surgeon. When properly executed, large volume lipoplasty can be gratifying to both patient and surgeon.