Tumescent Liposuction: A Safer Procedure

Many people seek out liposuction procedures to attain a more contoured figure. Most of these people want to undergo an effective, yet safe procedure. It goes without saying, that safety is paramount during any type of liposuction procedure. While most procedures are considered safe, traditional, older techniques often have risks such as blood loss and long recovery times associated with them. Today, there is a safer procedure — tumescent liposuction.

What is Tumescent Liposuction?

Tumescent liposuction procedures will not require hospital time, blood transfusions or other risks associated with older liposuction techniques.

This procedure is performed using local anesthetics, rather than general anesthesia. This eliminates the risks that come with undergoing general anesthesia. Tumescent liposuction can be performed on almost any body part including face, neck, abdomen, hips, breasts, back, thighs and legs. It can also be used to remove benign fatty tumors and lipomas.

The Tumescent Liposuction Procedure

The tumescent lipo procedure starts with a diluted solution of epinephrine and lidocaine being injected in the treatment area. The solution is injected directly into the fat that will subsequently be removed. The epinephrine will shrink blood vessels to minimize any potential bleeding. The lidocaine will provide pain relief. The solution will also cause the fat to swell, which will allow for easier, faster fat removal. This plumping effect also allows the surgeon more control over the contouring.

Small cannulas are then inserted through tiny incisions and then gentle suction is used to remove the fat.

After the Procedure

Due to the anesthetic nature of the injected solution, the area will remain numb for many hours, providing pain relief that can last up to 24 to 36 hours. There may be some discomfort after the anesthetic wears off that can be controlled by over-the-counter pain relievers.

Because there is no general anesthesia, patients will not experience grogginess or nausea that is often caused by general anesthesia. Patients will be told to get up and walk immediately after the procedure to promote healing. Patients can return to their normal routines within just a few days. Heavy lifting or high-levels of exertions will need to be avoided for a couple of weeks.

Benefits of Tumescent Liposuction

Less blood loss
The lidocaine may decrease the risk of possible infections
The tumescence or swelling of the treatment area will magnify any defects that can be corrected during the procedure, reducing the possibility of needing a second procedure.