Tumescent liposuction permits the suction of large amounts of fat without the use of general anesthesia. The technique differs from traditional liposuction in that tumescent fluid is injected into the treatment area prior to the removal of fat. This solution anesthetizes the area, and makes the fat easier to remove.

Local Anesthesia

Tumescent liposuction involves the use of local anesthesia. Conventional liposuction requires general anesthesia, which is associated with more side effects and complications. Patients who undergo local anesthesia have a decreased risk of experiencing the nausea and vomiting associated with general anesthesia. Local anesthesia is very effective and overall the procedure is considered to be less painful than with other forms of liposuction. The injection of diluted lidocaine often renders the addition of general anesthesia unnecessary.

Lidocaine

The use of lidocaine as a local anesthetic results in decreased systematic absorption of anesthetics; the body is required to metabolize less medication this way. Additionally, the effects of the lidocaine lasts throughout the day, resulting in far less pain for the patient.

Vasoconstriction

The solution injected during tumescent liposuction (which contains epinephrine) causes significant vasoconstriction. This means that blood vessels constrict and prevent blood loss. Vasoconstriction also causes the anesthesia to last longer. Because the capillaries are constricted, the lidocaine stays in the targeted adipose tissue for longer. The treated area can remained numbed or dull to pain for up to 36 hours after the procedure.

Saline Solution

The saline solution that is contained in the tumescent fluid causes the fatty tissues to swell, making them easier to target and remove.

Microcannulas

Cannulas are the tubes that suction the fat in liposuction. The cannulas used in tumescent liposuction are much smaller than the ones used in traditional methods. As a result, the scaring in tumescent liposuction is very minimal. The incisions, after they are healed, are often barely visible. Microcannulas also produce a much smoother effect than larger cannulas. Patients are less likely to suffer from lumps and unevenness after they heal from surgery.

Adits

Traditional liposuction methods require larger incisions, which need to be sutured at the end of the surgery. With tumescent liposuction, incisions are only about one millimeter in length. Because these incisions, called adits, are so small, they are often left open. After surgery, this allows the area to drain more efficiently. Those who undergo other forms of liposuction often experience prolonged bruising and swelling.

General Tips

To improve the results of tumescent liposuction, patients should heed the following tips:

• Liposuction is not a treatment for obesity. Those who are considering liposuction should lose all the weight they need to before pursuing cosmetic enhancement. Being of a stable weight optimizes the patient's health as well as the outcome of their surgery.
• Quit smoking for at least a month in advance of surgery. Nicotine limits circulation and prevents healing after cosmetic procedures.
• Do not take blood thinning medications for several weeks before or after surgery. They can cause excess bleeding during and after a procedure. These may include Coumadin, aspirin, ibuprofen, or St. John's Wort. Consult your doctor before making any changes to your regular routine.
• Avoid salty foods and stay hydrated. Dehydration actually causes water retention, which may result in weight gain and unevenness.
• Wear compression garments to reduce swelling, decrease the risk of clotting, and maximize the new contour.
• Mobility after liposuction may be limited.
• Swelling may be reduced by icing the area.
• Take prescriptions as directed. Most prescriptions may be alternated with acetaminophen (Tylenol).
• Patients may need assistance in the first 24 hours.

Contact the practice of Dr. Paul Pin to find out if you are a good candidate for liposuction.