Page 88 - Read Online

Brochu et al. Art Int Surg 2024;4:411-26 https://dx.doi.org/10.20517/ais.2024.61 Page 415

• Anesthesia risks
• Bruising
• Cannula breakage
• Change in skin sensation that may persist
• Damage to deeper structures such as nerves, blood vessels, muscles, lungs, and abdominal organs
• Deep vein thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications
• Fluid accumulation
• Infection
• Irregular contours or asymmetries
• Irregular pigmentation
• Need for revision surgery
• Poor wound healing
• Rippling or loose skin, worsening of cellulite
• Swelling
• Thermal burn or heat injury from ultrasound with the ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty technique

In comparison to this list, the ChatGPT response is similarly comprehensive, but both lists include
complications not specifically listed by the other source. The ASPS article does not include explanations like
the ChatGPT’s response does. Both ChatGPT and the ASPS article address the importance of discussing
risks with your surgeon, though only ChatGPT discusses how individual differences may play a role.

How long of a recovery period can I expect, and what kind of help will I need during my recovery?
This response begins with a statement about how recovery time can vary depending on the individual
patient. It then describes the general recovery timeline, which is divided into 6 periods [Figure 2]. Each
period is accompanied by a couple of sentences on what the patient may be experiencing in terms of
recovery. This section is followed by a few general types of assistance the patient may need during their
overall recovery. This response ends with a statement on the importance of following the surgeon’s advice
and understanding that everyone’s recovery varies.

In comparison with an ASPS blog on liposuction recovery, the ChatGPT information on the recovery
period is similarly organized (by time period) but less detailed. It covers the main points but is missing
some specifics on aspects such as drains, when compression garment use can be discontinued, and when
work can be resumed. The ASPS was much less detailed about help a patient may need following
liposuction, and only mentioned information contained in ChatGPT’s “help at home” point.

Can fat return after liposuction?
This response begins by explaining that liposuction is not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle and that fat can
return after the procedure [Figure 3]. It elaborates on this by further explaining liposuction and the
importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle following the procedure. The last paragraph is a statement on
the importance of the surgeon’s skills, the patient’s postoperative instructions, and the importance of
discussing goals with the surgeon.

Compared with a blog by the ASPS, the response by ChatGPT is less detailed. It covers the main points of
the ASPS article: liposuction permanently removes fat cells, but that fat can return if the patient gains
weight. Both responses recommend maintaining a healthy lifestyle as a way of preserving postoperative
results, but the ASPS includes more specific tips on how this can be achieved.