Tumescent Liposuction

What are the benefits of the Tumescent Technique over more traditional methods?

With this technique, liposuction patients need no general anesthesia and rarely require intravenous sedation or narcotics. Saline solution, containing diluted local anesthetic and adrenaline, is injected into the fatty tissue. There is usually only minimal, if any, discomfort during the process of injection. The vast majority of patients receive only minor sedation to help them relax and are completely conscious and comfortable during the surgery

After surgery, patients can get up and walk out of the office themselves and are usually back to their regular routine in a couple of days. This technique allows the use of much smaller cannulas (tubes) to remove the fat, so that bleeding and bruising are also minimized. Patients frequently require only Extra Strength Tylenol or Tylenol with Codeine for post-operative discomfort after having liposuction surgery using the Tumescent Technique.

What kind of results can I expect?

Although the results of liposuction can be quite spectacular, it is not realistic to expect perfection. Liposuction is the skillful recontouring of the body by removing inches in unwanted areas, rather than pounds. Patients are often advised that while liposuction can enhance one’s appearance in clothing, it cannot be guaranteed to improve the appearance of a person who is nude or wearing a skimpy bathing suit. Skin and muscle tone, which play an important role in the overall appearance of a person are aesthetic aspects that liposuction alone cannot influence.

What areas of the body can be treated?

Fat deposits beneath the chin, on the flanks, hips, abdomen, inner and outer thighs, knees and legs are areas where body contouring with liposuction produces impressive results. The most frequently treated areas in women are the abdomen, hips, thighs, and knees, while in men, the “love handles,” abdomen and enlarged male breasts (gynecomastia) are the most often treated.

What side effects should I be aware of?

As with any surgical procedure, liposuction is associated with possible side effects such as bruising, swelling, and discomfort in the surgically-treated areas. Although irregularities of the skin are possible following liposuction, this side affect is greatly minimized by the Tumescent Technique. Swelling gradually improves one to three months after surgery, with optimum results being apparent at about six months. Bruising varies from person to person, though any noticeable amount is usually gone within a couple of weeks. Serious complications such as blood clots, infection, or allergic reactions are extremely rare. Prior to surgery, of course, all possible side effects will be discussed with you.