What is tumescent liposuction?
The tumescent technique is a relatively new liposuction method that can reduce post operative bruising, swelling and pain. Also, blood loss is minimized during tumescent liposuction due to the effects of the local anesthetic which is used. In the tumescent technique, areas of excess fat are injected with a large amount of anesthetic liquid before liposuction is performed. 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. This can give multiple benefits — extra precision for the surgeon, reduced loss of blood for the patient, and extended pain relief after surgery, which can reduce the need for pain medication immediately after surgery.top This document is Copyright 1998,1999 Robert A. F. Green, all rights reserved. View the complete document here.
In the tumescent technique, areas of excess fat are injected with a large amount of anesthetic fluid before liposuction is performed. The liquid causes the compartments of fat to become swollen and firm. The expanded fat compartments allow the liposuction cannula to travel smoothly beneath the skin as the fat is removed. This technique can reduce post operative bruising, swelling, and pain. Learn more about tumescent liposuction.
Tumescent liposuction is a liposuction technique which utilizes large volumes of a fluid containing saline, epinephrine, and lidocaine that is injected into the fatty tissues before the fat is suctioned out. This technique is associated with decreased post-operative bruising and swelling. It also helps with pain control post-operatively.
The term “tumescent technique” involves the injection of a large amount of fluid containing saline, adrenaline and local anesthetic into a fatty area. By “wetting” the fat this allows easier fat removal, smoother contouring, elimination of pain and reduction of bleeding, bruising and swelling. Dr. Schantz uses this type of liposuction on all patients.
The word tumescence means “tenseness”. In tumescent liposuction enough fluid is placed into the fat to make the fat feel quite tense and almost hard to the touch. As mentioned, this pressure in the fat will cut down on some bleeding that may occur during liposuction. The fluid may also contain epinephrine (adrenaline) which shrinks blood vessels and further prevents bleeding. It may also contain a local anesthetic in order to remove feeling from the area. Tumescent liposuction can be done under a local anesthetic or under general anesthesia.
