Does adding Renuvion to liposuction add risk?

In liposuction consultations, I often hear, “What if my skin sags after the fat comes out?” Liposuction removes fat, but it doesn’t shrink the skin over it. Where a lot of fat is removed or the skin is naturally thin, the skin may not shrink back enough and can sag. In these areas, Renuvion is used alongside liposuction to help the fibrous tissue under the skin contract.

That naturally leads to the next question: if you add one more thing, don’t you also add one more risk? A study published in 2024 in the US journal Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum looked at this question.

The research team collected and analyzed the records of 483 patients who had Renuvion after liposuction at several clinics between 2018 and 2021. Women made up 71%, the average age was 44.7, and many areas were included, such as the arms, abdomen, back, face, flanks, legs and neck. The team then compared these results with earlier studies that summarized complication rates for liposuction alone.

Compared with liposuction alone, there were no new or increased risks. The combined rate of hematoma (a collection of blood) and seroma (a collection of fluid) was 4.6% (22 of 483), and 1 case was classified as a burn or blister. There were 2 cases of temporary nerve changes, and both resolved on their own. There was also no need to change the device settings much from one area to another.

The same paper also cited the results of another study: patients who had Renuvion after liposuction needed 8.8% fewer repeat surgeries to remove excess skin than patients who had liposuction alone.

Of course, this study has its limitations too. It looked back at records of procedures already performed, and it was sponsored by the device manufacturer. “No increase in risk” does not mean “no risk.” Swelling, bruising and a firm feeling for a while are common, and in rare cases a hematoma, seroma or burn can occur.

At LINE ON Clinic, we don’t add Renuvion to every liposuction. If your skin is firm, liposuction alone is often enough. We look at how much fat will be removed and the condition of your skin during the examination, and recommend it only for areas that tend to sag.

References

Shridharani SM, Ruff PG, Doolabh VB, Zimmerman EM. The Safety of Contraction of Subcutaneous Tissue Following Liposuction Procedures. Aesthet Surg J Open Forum, 2024. doi:10.1093/asjof/ojad112