What Safety Standards Are Followed in Liposuction Procedures in Australia?

Are you considering a liposuction procedure? It’s important to know that in Australia strict safety standards are in place to protect your health and well-being ¹https://www.ahpra.gov.au/News/2023-04-03-cos-surgery-update.aspx. This page will guide you through these standards, helping you understand what to expect if you decide to undergo liposuction surgery.

Who Oversees Liposuction Safety in Australia?

In Australia, several key organisations work to make sure your liposuction procedure is completed safely.

Medical Board of Australia

The Medical Board of Australia sets the rules for doctors performing liposuction. They ensure that all procedures meet high safety standards so you can trust your care.

Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)

AHPRA keeps an eye on doctors to make sure they’re properly trained and qualified. They also handle complaints and investigate any issues to protect patients like you.

Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

The TGA checks that all the equipment and products used in liposuction are safe and high quality. From the tools to the anaesthesia, they make sure everything meets strict safety guidelines.

Safety Standards Before the Procedure

What Happens in a Consultation

In Australia, when you’re considering liposuction, the process starts with at least two preoperative consultations ² [https://www.health.vic.gov.au/guideline-for-providers-of-liposuction]. Your first consultation will be with the surgeon who will perform the procedure or another health practitioner in their team—not a patient advisor or agent.

This is a chance to discuss your medical history, goals, and what you hope to achieve. The surgeon will explain the procedure, the risks involved, and the liposuction recovery process. You’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions and address any concerns you may have.

Read more: Everything You Need to Know About Liposuction Recovery

At least one of the two consultations must be conducted by the surgeon who will perform your procedure.

How Doctors Decide If You’re a Suitable Candidate

• Health Check: They’ll make sure you’re in good health and don’t have any conditions that could cause complications.
• Weight and BMI: You should be at or near your target weight with firm, elastic skin. If your BMI is too high, the surgeon might recommend losing some weight first through diet and exercise.
• Mental Health: Your reasons for wanting liposuction will be discussed, and your mental health will be assessed to ensure you have realistic expectations and are in a positive frame of mind​.

Steps to Prepare for Surgery

1. Healthy Habits: Try to maintain a stable weight and stop smoking at least a few weeks before the surgery. Smoking can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications.
2. Medical Prep: Talk to your surgeon about any medications or supplements you’re taking. Some might need to be paused before surgery to prevent issues like increased bleeding​.
3. Practical Arrangements: Plan to take some time off work or other responsibilities to rest and recover after the surgery. Make sure you have someone to drive you home and help you out for a day or two post-surgery.

Safety Standards During the Procedure

In Australia, there are strict safety standards to ensure that liposuction is performed safely and effectively. These standards are in place to protect your health and provide the best possible outcomes.

Clean and Safe Environment

Liposuction must be done in accredited facilities such as day surgeries or hospitals. These places follow strict rules to keep everything clean and safe. Regular inspections ensure that all equipment is properly sterilised, and the environment is well-maintained to prevent infections and other complications​.

Safe Use of Anaesthesia

The type of anaesthesia used can be local (numbing a specific area) or general (putting you to sleep), depending on how much fat is being removed and from where. Qualified anaesthetists or surgeons will administer the anaesthesia. They’ll keep a close eye on your vital signs, like heart rate and blood pressure, throughout the procedure to make sure you’re safe. The Medical Board of Australia has strict guidelines to ensure anaesthesia is used safely​ ³https://www.medicalboard.gov.au/Codes-Guidelines-Policies/Cosmetic-medical-and-surgical-procedures-guidelines.aspx.

Monitoring Your Health

During the procedure, advanced monitoring equipment tracks your vital signs to catch any issues right away. Surgeons follow guidelines to avoid doing too much liposuction at once or combining it with other surgeries in a single session, which can increase risks. After the procedure, you’ll be moved to a recovery area where you’ll continue to be monitored until you’re stable enough to go home​.

Safety Standards After the Procedure

Care Immediately After Surgery

Right after your liposuction procedure, you’ll be monitored in a recovery area to ensure you’re stable as the anaesthesia wears off. You might experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which are normal parts of the healing process. Painkillers can be prescribed to manage any pain. You’ll also receive detailed aftercare instructions from your surgeon, including how to care for your surgical site and any medications you might need to take. These guidelines help reduce the risk of infection and promote quicker healing​.

Watching for Complications

Post-surgery, it’s crucial to be vigilant about any signs of complications. Watch for symptoms like excessive swelling, severe pain, unusual discharge, or fever, which could indicate an infection or other issues. Your surgeon will provide specific signs to look out for and instructions on what to do if you notice anything concerning. Following these guidelines and keeping in close communication with your healthcare provider helps ensure any potential complications are addressed promptly.

Follow-Up Visits

Follow-up visits with your surgeon are an essential part of the recovery process. These appointments allow your doctor to monitor your healing, address any concerns, and ensure that everything is progressing as expected. Typically, the first follow-up visit is scheduled within a week after the surgery, with additional visits over the next few months as needed. During these visits, your surgeon can check for any irregularities, adjust your care plan if necessary, and give you advice on maintaining your results.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Doctor

Choosing the right surgeon for your liposuction procedure is just as important as the procedure itself. At Levant Cosmetic Surgery, we offer you the unique opportunity to choose your liposuction doctor, with each bringing their unique strengths to your care:

FRACS-Qualified Surgeon

What They Bring to Your Care: A Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) has completed extensive medical and surgical education, including at least five years of specialist training. This title signifies a high level of expertise and commitment to excellence in surgical practice.

Why Choose a FRACS Surgeon: These surgeons are recognised for their ability to handle complex cases with a deep understanding of human anatomy and surgical ethics. Their comprehensive training ensures they can manage any potential complications with skill and confidence.

Plastic Surgeon

What They Bring to Your Care: Plastic surgeons in Australia are medical doctors who have completed medical school followed by specialised training in plastic surgery, including reconstructive and cosmetic procedures.

Why Choose a Plastic Surgeon: Plastic surgeons combine technical skill with an aesthetic eye, making them ideal for achieving specific cosmetic outcomes.

Liposuction Doctor

What They Bring to Your Care: Liposuction doctors are General Practitioners who have focused their practice on liposuction techniques. They have extensive experience in the latest liposuction methods and technologies.

Why Choose a Liposuction Doctor: For those solely seeking liposuction, these doctors offer specialised knowledge and experience.

Read more: Comparing Plastic Surgeons, FRACS Surgeons & Liposuction Doctors

Tips for Choosing a Reputable Liposuction Surgeon

1. Research the Clinic: Look for accredited clinics with a strong reputation for safety and quality care.
2. Check Reviews and Testimonials: Reading experiences from past patients can give you insight into the surgeon’s skills and patient care.
3. Ask the Right Questions:
   • What are your qualifications and experience with liposuction?
   • How many procedures have you performed?
   • What can I expect during the recovery process?
   • Can you provide before and after photos of previous patients

Choosing the right doctor is a significant step in your liposuction journey. At Levant Cosmetic Surgery, we are here to support you in making the best choice for your health.

Liposuction Risks & How They’re Managed

Possible Risks

Liposuction, like any surgical procedure, comes with potential risks. Some of these include:

• There’s a risk of infection at the incision sites.
• Excessive bleeding can occur during or after surgery.
• Reactions to anaesthesia can range from mild to severe.
• Blood clots can form and potentially lead to more serious conditions like deep vein thrombosis.
• Removing fat can sometimes lead to uneven or wavy skin.
• Nerve damage, which can cause numbness or changes in skin sensation.
• You may experience scarring, but these are typically small​.

How Doctors Handle Complications

Doctors take several steps to manage and mitigate these risks:

• Preoperative Screening: Thorough health evaluations are conducted to ensure you’re a suitable candidate for surgery, minimising risks.
• Sterile Techniques: Strict sterilisation protocols are followed to prevent infections.
• Skilled Anesthesia Administration: An experienced anaesthetist monitors your vital signs to manage and mitigate anaesthesia-related risks.
• Careful Technique: Surgeons use precise techniques to minimise the risk of bleeding.
• Postoperative Monitoring: You are closely monitored immediately after surgery for any signs of complications, such as unusual pain or swelling.

Reassurance About Safety

While the risks are real, it’s important to remember that liposuction is generally safe when performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon. Here are some ways to ensure your safety:

• Choose a Qualified Surgeon: Ensure your surgeon has extensive experience in liposuction.
• Follow Postoperative Instructions: Carefully follow your doctor’s aftercare instructions to promote healing and reduce risks.
• Report Any Concerns: Communicate any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider immediately.

By choosing a reputable clinic and following your surgeon’s advice, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of complications and enjoy the results of a well-executed liposuction procedure​.

Understanding Your Rights as a Patient

Your rights as a liposuction patient, as outlined by AHPRA, include:

Understanding Informed Consent

Before undergoing liposuction, your surgeon must make sure you fully understand the procedure, including all potential risks and benefits. This is called informed consent. You should receive detailed information about what the surgery entails, the recovery process, and any possible complications. It’s important to ask questions and get clear answers until you feel comfortable making your decision.

Your Right to Ask Questions

You have the right to ask as many questions as you need to feel confident about your procedure. Don’t hesitate to ask about the surgeon’s experience, the specifics of the procedure, and what to expect during recovery. It’s your body, and you should feel empowered to understand everything about the surgery.

Clear Information on Risks and Results

Your surgeon should provide clear and honest information about the risks and possible outcomes of the procedure. This includes discussing common complications and how they are managed. Understanding these details will help you set realistic expectations and make an informed choice.

Consent for Photographs and Videos

If your surgeon wants to take photos or videos during your consultation or surgery, they must ask for your consent. You should be informed about how these images will be used—whether for medical records, teaching, advertising, or other purposes. You have the right to view these images and refuse their use in advertising. Your consent for photos and videos should be separate from your surgical consent, and you can withdraw your consent at any time, ensuring the images are no longer used.

Consent for surgical photos is different from consent for surgery. Source | Levant Cosmetic Surgery

Making a Complaint

If you’re unhappy with your surgery or care, you have the right to make a complaint. Your surgeon should provide you with information on how to do this, including:

• Resolving the issue directly with the surgeon
• Using the clinic’s complaint process
• Contacting the health complaints entity in your state or territory
• Reporting to AHPRA, the Health Care Complaints Commission, or the Medical Council of NSW if you are in New South Wales, or the Office of the Health Ombudsman if you are in Queensland.

Even if you’ve signed a non-disclosure agreement, you can still make a complaint to these bodies. Your rights to report and resolve issues are protected. Find out more here. 

Additional Patient Rights

• Privacy: Your medical records and personal information should be kept confidential and only shared with your consent.
• Second Opinions: You have the right to seek a second opinion if you’re unsure about the procedure or your surgeon’s recommendations.
• Transparent Fees: Fees should be clearly explained before the procedure, and you should receive an itemised bill afterwards. Hidden fees or booking charges are not allowed​.

Understanding and exercising these rights ensures you’re fully informed and comfortable with your healthcare decisions. At Levant Cosmetic Surgery, we strive to provide all the necessary information to help you make the best choice for your health and well-being.

Patient Resources

• National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards
• AHPRA Guidelines for Cosmetic Surgery
• Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons
• Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care
• NSQHS Standards

Liposuction Safety FAQs

What is the safe limit for liposuction?

In Australia, the safe limit for liposuction typically involves removing no more than 5 litres of fat in one session⁴https://plasticsurgery.org.au/procedures/surgical-procedures/liposuction/. This limit is set to reduce the risk of complications and ensure patient safety. Procedures should be performed in accredited facilities that follow strict safety standards.

What precautions should you take after liposuction?

After liposuction, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s advice to ensure a smooth recovery. This includes wearing compression garments to minimise swelling, avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a few weeks, and keeping the surgical area clean to prevent infection. Attending follow-up appointments is crucial to monitor your progress and address any concerns promptly.

Is liposuction 100% safe?

No surgical procedure, including liposuction, is completely without risk. While liposuction is generally safe when performed by a qualified surgeon in a regulated facility, there are potential risks such as infection, bleeding, and complications from anaesthesia. Choosing an experienced surgeon and following all pre- and post-operative instructions can help minimise these risks​.

Is it possible to have liposuction twice? 

Yes, it is possible to have liposuction more than once. However, it’s important to wait until your body has fully healed from the first procedure before considering a second one. Your surgeon will evaluate your health and the results of the initial surgery to determine if and when another session is safe and appropriate​

References:

• 1. https://www.ahpra.gov.au/News/2023-04-03-cos-surgery-update.aspx
• 2. [https://www.health.vic.gov.au/guideline-for-providers-of-liposuction]. Your first consultation will be with the surgeon who will perform the procedure or another health practitioner in their team—not a patient advisor or agent.
  
  This is a chance to discuss your medical history, goals, and what you hope to achieve. The surgeon will explain the procedure, the risks involved, and the liposuction recovery process. You’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions and address any concerns you may have.
  
  Read more: Everything You Need to Know About Liposuction Recovery
  
  At least one of the two consultations must be conducted by the surgeon who will perform your procedure.
  
  

  How Doctors Decide If You’re a Suitable Candidate

  Doctors look at a few key factors to decide if liposuction is right for you:
  
  

  • Health Check: They’ll make sure you’re in good health and don’t have any conditions that could cause complications.
  • Weight and BMI: You should be at or near your target weight with firm, elastic skin. If your BMI is too high, the surgeon might recommend losing some weight first through diet and exercise.
  • Mental Health: Your reasons for wanting liposuction will be discussed, and your mental health will be assessed to ensure you have realistic expectations and are in a positive frame of mind​.

  Steps to Prepare for Surgery

  Getting ready for liposuction involves a few important steps:
  
  

  1. Healthy Habits: Try to maintain a stable weight and stop smoking at least a few weeks before the surgery. Smoking can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications.
  2. Medical Prep: Talk to your surgeon about any medications or supplements you’re taking. Some might need to be paused before surgery to prevent issues like increased bleeding​.
  3. Practical Arrangements: Plan to take some time off work or other responsibilities to rest and recover after the surgery. Make sure you have someone to drive you home and help you out for a day or two post-surgery.

  There must be a cooling-off period of at least seven days after the patient has had two consultations and given informed consent (signed consent forms), before the surgery can be booked or a deposit paid²https://www.health.vic.gov.au/guideline-for-providers-of-liposuction
• 3. https://www.medicalboard.gov.au/Codes-Guidelines-Policies/Cosmetic-medical-and-surgical-procedures-guidelines.aspx
• 4. https://plasticsurgery.org.au/procedures/surgical-procedures/liposuction/