Impact of Large-Volume Liposuction on Inflammatory Cytokine Interleukin-6 Levels: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Liposuction is a widely performed surgical procedure for fat removal, showing increasing popularity for body sculpting purposes. Surgical interventions typically trigger an inflammatory response, but in the context of overweight and obesity, excess adipose tissue can perpetuate systemic inflammation. Adipose tissue, recognized as an endocrine organ, secretes adipokines, influencing metabolic and inflammatory processes. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a key cytokine involved in inflammation, notably elevated in obese individuals.

Objectives: The aim of this study is to understand the impact of liposuction on IL-6 levels and its correlation with different follow-up points.

Methods: This cross-sectional study involved patients undergoing liposuction between January and December 2023. Exclusion criteria included metabolic or chronic diseases. IL-6 levels were measured preoperatively and at 1, 3, and 6 months postsurgery. Data on liposuction volume, BMI, and demographic variables were collected.

Results: Twenty-seven patients participated, predominantly female (21/6) with a mean age of 36.42 years. Significant reductions in BMI were observed postoperatively, with a notable increase in IL-6 levels immediately postsurgery followed by a decline at 1 month. IL-6 levels remained stable and were significantly lower than the baseline preoperative levels on the third and sixth follow-up visits.

Conclusions: Liposuction induces a temporary inflammatory response, as evidenced by elevated IL-6 levels postsurgery, which subsequently normalize within the first month. Although liposuction may offer short-term improvements in inflammatory response, larger studies are needed to understand its long-term impact on inflammation and metabolic health.

Level of evidence 2 risk: