Although liposuction is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgeries in the U.S., prospective patients need to be aware that their individual results may vary. Many who are considering the surgery begin with false hopes that the surgery can transform their bodies into the firm and toned images portrayed in the media. Although most patients are satisfied with the end results of the surgery, it needs to be understood that with any surgery, there is a risk of infection, swelling, and bruising as well as other, more serious, side effects. Liposuction usually gives the best results to healthy people of normal weight with firm, elastic skin. Those who are overweight or who have skin that is not as firm may not achieve the results they hope for.

Though fatalities seem to be rare, very little data exists to give a solid number. Some studies suggest that approximately 3 of every 100,000 liposuctions performed result in death. Other studies suggest that number to be much higher