Tumescent Liposuction in Beverly Hills
The tumescent technique is a relatively new liposuction method that can reduce post operative bruising, swelling and pain. Blood loss is minimized during tumescent liposuction, and the entire process is more comfortable. At Rodeo Drive Plastic Surgery, all liposuction procedures are done with this technique.
In the tumescent technique, areas of excess fat are injected with a large amount of anesthetic liquid before liposuction is per-formed. The liquid causes the compartments of fat to become swollen and firm or “tumesced.” The expanded fat compartments allow the liposuction cannula to travel smoothly beneath the skin as the fat is removed.
CANDIDATES FOR TUMESCENT LIPOSUCTION
Any person who is a candidate for traditional liposuction is also a good candidate for the tumescent technique. Although the technique can be used on any area of the body, it is commonly used on areas that require enhanced precision, such as the face, neck, arms, calves and ankles.
Individuals who have large areas of excess fat may also be good candidates for tumescent liposuction.
UNDERSTANDING THE RISK
Although the anesthesia requirements are lessened and blood loss is minimized with tumescent liposuction, patients undergoing the procedure still face the same risks and cosmetic complications associated with traditional liposuction surgery.
There are also risks specifically associated with the tumescent technique. These rare complications include pulmonary edema (the collection of fluid in the lungs), which may occur if too much fluid is administered; and lidocaine toxicity, which occurs if the solution’s lidocaine content is too high.
ANESTHESIA
For many patients, general anesthesia is the best option. For others, the anesthetic contained in the solution combined with sedation may provide sufficient comfort during the procedure. Or, if your doctor feels it’s appropriate, the tumescent solution itself may serve as the sole means of anesthesia.
THE SURGERY
In tumescent liposuction, the warmed tumescent liquid — a dilute solution containing lidocaine, epinephrine and intravenous fluid — is injected into the area to be treated. As the liquid enters the fat, it becomes swollen, firm and blanched. Liposuction is then performed on the tumesced areas.
AFTER SURGERY
The long-acting effects of the anesthetic solution help to provide pain relief after the procedure and decrease the need for additional pain medication.
For the first day or two after surgery, most patients experience swelling in the treated areas, as well as some fluid drainage from the incision sites.
Light activity is usually resumed within the first few days after tumescent liposuction; normal activity can be resumed within a few weeks.
Patients are usually very pleased with the results of the procedure. By eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise, you can help to maintain your slimmer figure or leaner physique.
Rodeo Drive Plastic Surgery performs plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery in Beverly Hills, California.
Content courtesy of American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
