Tumescent liposuction is considered by many cosmetic surgeons and patients to be the safest and most effective form of liposuction surgery. The use of larger amounts of local anesthetic not only reduces pain after surgery, but also reduces bleeding, swelling, and skin irregularities and makes the entire procedure run more smoothly.
The Procedure
Tumescent liposuction has gained a tremendous amount of popularity in recent years, primarily because it has eliminated some of the unpleasant side effects previously associated with liposuction, resulting in a shorter
recovery period. The procedure itself is similar in method and cost, but with a few differences.
In the first step of tumescent liposuction, a large dose of liquid (composed primarily of lidocaine, a local anesthetic, and epinephrine, which helps to shrink blood vessels) is injected into the part of the body being treated. The added fluid forces the compartments of fat to swell and firm up, which lets the provider extract the unwanted fat smoothly and with minimal bleeding.
Benefits of Tumescent Liposuction
Tumescent liposuction can significantly reduce some of the unpleasant side effects of other techniques. Because the anesthetic solution temporarily reduces the size of the capillaries, it can significantly reduce blood loss
during surgery and the pain, bruising, and swelling that occurs afterward.
And because tumescent liposuction provides local anesthesia, patients can avoid the side effects of general anesthesia, such as vomiting and nausea, they can even be awake and aware of the treatment.
Risks of Tumescent Liposuction
As with any form of liposuction, complications can occur during tumescent liposuction. Two risks that are unique to tumescent liposuction are lidocaine toxicity and fluid accumulation. Lidocaine toxicity occurs when the amount of lidocaine in the tumescent solution is too high, making it difficult for the body to adequately metabolize the drug. When too much solution is injected into the treatment area, it is possible for fluid to accumulate in the lungs.
To avoid this complications and achieve maximum results the procedure must be performed by a qualified practitioner. Although tumescent liposuction has made fat removal easier and less painful than ever before.
