Diabetics and liposuction - your opinion

Hello,

I am interested in having liposuction performed on my inner and outer thighs. I'm also 41 years old and have Type1 Diabetes (for over 30 years). I have no retinal, kidney or circulatory complications and am working toward transition to insulin pump technology.

A doctor I spoke with recently did not recommend liposuction. I have seen many changes in medical opinion re: diabetics and cosmetic surgery procedures, and I know that lipo or any other "optional" surgery is not without risks. I would like to get another opinion regarding this procedure and diabetics; whether it is ever advisable. If it is now considered appropriate, I would also be interested to hear what method is most recommended.

Thank you.
Anne

[Howard Rosenberg, MD]

I have performed liposuction on Type I diabetics without problem.  Techniques vary from surgeon to surgeon.  My current preference is power assisted liposuction, which in my hands is very successful and reduces fatigue during the procedure.  I am sure you will find an excellent plastic surgeon in your area who will perform this surgery. Control of sugar levels immediately after the procedure is very important.