Like any other surgery, body contouring procedures have inherent risks and possible complications. More detailed risks vary depending on the surgery, but majority of the body contouring procedures share a common set of risks and possible complications.

Infection is one of the biggest complications that a patient might experience. Procedures that require many incisions or have few but large incisions are prone to infection, depending on the patient’s own physiology, his or her diligence in taking the prescribed medication to combat infection, and the environment where the patient is recovering.

Swelling and bruising is also common, especially in procedures that inflict physical stress to the body whether through incisions, or pulling of the skin. Swelling is usually abated by medication, or topical creams. Excessive swelling or bruising, however, might indicate a deeper problem, and should be brought to the attention of the surgeon if it does not subside.

One critical problem to look out for is the performance of the surgery itself. Asymmetry is a risk that is ever-present, especially when using the services of less experienced or less skilled surgeons. While the initial asymmetric appearance might not be visible outright, either because it is hidden by bandages or coverings, or is offset by swelling, once recovery goes on, asymmetry can be visible, and by then, it might be too late to fix, and might require another a repeat of the procedure.

Asymmetry can be caused by many things, whether by a mistake made by the surgeon during the procedure, defective implants, or even patient-caused reasons like excessive physical movement before final recovery takes place.

These possible risks and complications go on top of the specific risks and complications brought about by each body contouring procedure, so it is important for the patient to be well-informed beforehand.