Tumescent Liposculpture
What is Tumescent Liposculpture?
Tumescent liposculpture usually refers to the original and standard liposuction tehcnique. This is the traditional procedure that doctors have used since the 1970s.
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According to the American Academy of Dermatology:
Tumescent liposuction involves the use of a diluted solution of local anesthetic and other medications to fill the fatty layer of the skin prior to removing the excess fat. This causes the tissue to become swollen and firm, allowing for excellent control. General anesthesia is not required, eliminating potential complications. The result is a sculpting of bulging areas into more attractive contours.
Tumescent liposuction is an outpatient procedure, avoiding a costly hospital stay. Since the patient remains awake during the surgery, the dermatologic surgeon can ask him/her to change positions which leads to better sculpting of the targeted areas.
Tumescent liposuction has an unprecedented safety profile, and allows dermatologic surgeons to efficiently remove both deep and superficial excess layers of fat with little discomfort, faster recovery, and improved cosmetic results. Patients see fewer skin irregularities, less bleeding, and reduced bruising.
Tumescent vs. Ultrasonic Liposuction?
Plastic surgeons are split over this issue. Some claim that ultrasonic lipo is better because there is less blood loss and less discomfort when using laser technology Some believe that tumescent lipo is better argue that blood loss is minimal with both techniques and that surgeons have more experience and therefore a higher safety incidence rate with tumescent liposuction.
If you find a surgeon you trust, consider asking for their advice. The plastic surgeon will usually recommend the technique that works best in their hands.
An in Depth FAQ on tumescent liposuction is located on an article on eMedicine