Minimally Invasive Tumescent Liposuction

Tumescent liposuction refers to a technique of liposuction that uses larger volumes of very dilute local anesthesia fluid which is injected into the fat, causing the targeted areas to become tumescent, or swollen and firm.

The tumescent technique has allowed liposuction to be performed with the patient under local anesthesia while minimizing blood loss and the risks of general anesthesia. Since its inception, liposuction performed with the tumescent technique has had an excellent safety profile.The tumescent technique for liposuction is unquestionably the safest form of liposuction when performed correctly (not excessively). As opposed to general anesthesia techniques for liposuction, there have been no reported deaths associated with tumescent liposuction totally by local anesthesia techniques.

Tumescent Liposuction vs Traditonal Liposuction

Traditional liposuction cannulas (stainless steel tubes) have a relatively large diameter and remove large volumes of fat rather quickly. However, with the use of large cannulas (diameter greater than three millimeters), there is an increased risk of irregularities and depressions in the skin post procedure.

The tumescent technique permits the use of small microcunnulas which in turn yield smoother cosmetic results. Microcannulas with a diameter less than three millimeters allow fat to be removed in a smoother and more uniform fashion. Some plastic surgeons prefer larger cannulas under general anesthesia because it allows liposuction to be performed more quickly. But with any artistic media, quick is not necessarily better.

Tumescent Liposuction: Am I a Candidate?

The ideal candidate for tumescent liposuction is physically fit and eats well-balanced meals, but is unable to reduce a fatty deposit that is well localized and often seems to involve a genetic susceptibility.Tumescent liposuction patients must have realistic expectations. The ideal candidate is only 20-30 lb. overweight with focal adipose accumulations unresponsive to diet and exercise. The most common liposcution treatment areas include the upper and lower abdomen, the flanks (love handles), breast, outer and inner thighs, inner knees, arms and back, the neck, ankles and calves.