Liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure that involves the removal of fat from various parts of the body. There have been variants of liposuction that have been practiced over the years, but the most common and popular option is tumescent liposuction. This technique has been practiced for many years and is considered the gold standard for fat reduction.
What Makes Tumescent Liposuction the Gold Standard?
Tumescent liposuction has become the gold standard in liposuction for a number of reasons. First, it avoids the need for general anesthesia, thus making this procedure safer and more patient-friendly. General anesthesia comes with a number of potential side effects, including temporary nausea, dry mouth, headache, shivering, and blurred vision. Local anesthesia avoids these.
The reason why general anesthesia is not necessary is because of the tumescent solution that is injected at the start of the tumescent-liposuction procedure. The tumescent solution includes lidocaine, a local anesthetic, which numbs the area before the treatment is performed.
The tumescent solution is made up of three components: normal saline, lidocaine, and epinephrine. Epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, constricts blood vessels in the region undergoing liposuction in order to lessen the amount of bleeding that occurs during surgery.
Traditional liposuction involves more bleeding, which results in more swelling and bruising. Because less swelling and bruising occur during tumescent liposuction than traditional liposuction, the recovery process is shorter and more comfortable for the patient.
The tumescent solution results in the fat becoming swollen and firm. This makes it easier for the surgeon to remove the unwanted fatty tissues in the trouble areas. Traditional fat removal involves the use of a sharp cannula, which loosens the stubborn fat from the surrounding tissues. When fat is harder to remove, the surrounding tissues can be damaged. Making removal easier results in less trauma to the surrounding tissues and thus less swelling and bruising after surgery.
The Tumescent-Liposuction Process
Tumescent liposuction can be used to remove fat from various parts of the body. These include:
• Neck
• Upper arms
• Breasts
• Back
• Abdomen
• Flanks and love handles
• Hips
• Buttocks
• Thighs
• Ankles
Once the tumescent solution is injected, a very small incision is made in the area where the fat is to be removed. A microcannula – a small thin tube with a blunt end – is then inserted. Medical suction is used to remove the targeted swollen fatty tissue in order to contour the area and reduce it in volume.
Results of Tumescent Liposuction
After the tumescent-liposuction procedure, a compression garment may be worn on the treated area. This should be in place for around a week. The surgeon then evaluates the progress of the recovery and removes the compression garment. Where required, medication is given to reduce any pain.
Once all swelling and bruising has ameliorated and recovery is complete, the full results of the procedure can be seen in the form of reduced and natural-looking contours. Once removed, fat cells do not grow back, meaning the results are permanent.
Arrange Your Tumescent-Liposuction Consultation
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Lu-Jean Feng is a highly regarded medical professional with years of experience. Dr. Feng is your ideal choice for quality fat reduction and body contouring. To schedule your consultation with Dr. Feng, contact us and set up a consultation.
