Tumescent Liposuction
Tumescent Liposuction Procedure
Tumescent liposuction refers to a technique that uses large volumes of diluted local anesthetic solution (lidocaine with epinephrine) that is injected into the fatty areas where the surgery will be performed. This local anesthetic method eliminates some of the risks and side effects associated with general anesthesia, which is used for traditional liposuction. The tumescent solution helps numb the area before and after the procedure. Next, the surgeon inserts a thin tube called cannula through small incisions into the fatty tissue, right beneath the skin, to remove fat. After the liposuction is complete, a supportive garment with or without a board is worn by patients to maximize the results of the liposuction. Some surgeons also recommend massages for a few weeks after the procedure to encourage draining of the area(s). The results of tumescent liposuction are typically dramatic and permanent.
Advantages of Tumescent Liposuction- Less blood and fluid loss, which means less swelling after the procedure and quicker recovery time
- Cannulas used for tumescent liposuction are small so there is less trauma to the area, therefore, less chance of bruising and scarring.
- The incision sites typically do not require sutures, which means better aesthetic look overall
- Bacteriostatic lidocaine may lower the possible infections
- The tumescent solution allows better view of the areas in need of liposuction, therefore, it reduces the chance of a secondary procedure.
- Neck and Jowls
- Arms
- Abdomen
- Buttocks
- Hips
- Inner and outer thighs
- Knees
- Legs
- Flanks (love handles)
- Enlarged male breasts
Contraindications
Some of the more common contraindications are listed below. Please consult with your physician to see if you are a candidate for Tumescent liposuction. A thorough review of your medical history and review of lab work and EKG are typically required to determine if you are a candidate for liposuction.
- Pregnancy
- Morbid obesity
- Heart or lung disease
- Blood clotting disorders
- Lupus
- Collagen or connective tissue disorders
Recovery Time
Most patients can return to normal activities after two days post liposuction, but some require 6 or 7 days. As mentioned above, the supportive garments are worn after the procedure to help the skin contract and to achieve better results. Results will be visible typically within ten to thirty days and they continue to show for up to a year.
Tumescent Liposuction Cost
Compared to traditional liposuction, Tumescent Liposuction is more affordable since it does not require general anesthesia. The cost varies based on the body area being treated. Typically, the cost is higher for large areas such as abdomen and lower for areas such as outer thighs, neck and arms. The cost usually includes lab work, physical examination, medications (pain medications, antibiotics, etc) supportive garment, and post liposuction follow- up. Some physicians offer discount if you are having more than one area done at the same time. This procedure is considered cosmetic in nature, therefore, it is not covered by insurance. However, many surgeons offer interest free financing and payment options to make the procedure more affordable to patients.
