Published reports claim that there are as little as two deaths for every 100,000 patients undergoing liposuction, yet others insist that the numbers can be as high as one hundred per 100,000. It is fair to say that death as a result of complications arising from Liposuction is extremely rare; nevertheless, always be aware of the potential risks that may cause fatal results before undergoing any type of Liposuction procedure.

Surgeons attribute the most common cause of death from Liposuction to an overdose of Lidocaine and adrenaline. Lidocaine is a topical anaesthetic which is similar in composition to the drug Novocaine, often administered by dentists before a procedure. Although far less harmful than general anaesthesia, a high dosage may lead to Lidocaine toxicity. Toxicity can occur when a patient has been administered with too much Lidocaine, or when the amount that they have been given is absorbed unusually rapidly into the blood stream. Symptoms which indicate Lidocaine toxicity and should be regarded as a medical emergency include loss of consciousness, muscle twitching, a ringing in the ears, and seizures. Should a patient suffer any of these symptoms, they must call their local emergency number immediately. Neglecting to call for a doctor or an ambulance can result in cardiac arrest and death.