Tumescent Technique

The tumescent technique is a rather new liposuction method that injects a large amount of anesthetic liquid into fatty areas. The liquid causes the fat to swell which allows the liposuction tube to move smoothly under the skin to remove the fat. There is less post-treatment bruising, swelling and pain with this technique. Also, the possibility of the patient needing a blood transfusion during the procedure is minimized because the fluid injected into the fatty tissue constricts the blood vessels in the treatment area greatly reducing blood loss.

Candidates for Tumescent Liposuction

Anyone who is considering traditional liposuction would be a good candidate for tumescent liposuction. Tumescent liposuction can be used on many areas of the body. Because of the precision involved, it is most common used to treat areas such as the chin, neck, face, arms and legs. It can also be used to treat larger areas as well.

View before and after liposuction photos.

Knowing the Risks

Risks associated with anesthesia and blood loss are minimized with this procedure. However, patients undergoing tumescent liposuction can still face the same risks and post-treatment complications as with traditional liposuction. Risks associated particularly with tumescent liposuction, although rare, can be serious. A pulmonary edema or collection of fluid in the lungs is possible because of the chance that fat clots or blood clots could develop and move to the lungs. This is caused if too much liquid is injected into the treatment site. Ensuring the physician is experienced will minimize this risk. Lidocaine toxicity is another risk that can result of the solutions lidocaine content is too high.

Types of Anesthesia

A patient undergoing tumescent liposuction may receive local anesthesia which means they will remain awake during the procedure. The tumescent solution may serve as the only anesthesia or it may be mixed with a sedative. Depending on the extent of the treatment, a patient may receive general anesthesia which means they will sleep through the procedure. This is usually the best option for those undergoing this procedure.

During Surgery

The tumescent liquid that is injected into fatty tissue contains a combination of lidocaine, epinephrine and intravenous fluid. Warmed tumescent solution is injected into fatty tissue making it swollen and firm. Liposuction is then used to remove the fatty tissue.

Post Surgery

The anesthetic solution which was injected during the procedure provides pain relief long after treatment which reduces the need for pain medication.

Patients will notice swelling within the first couple of days following treatment and may experience drainage of fluid from the treatment area.

Patients are able to do light activity just a few days after surgery. Normal activity can resume a few weeks after surgery.

Post-Surgery Results

Most patients can see results immediately following surgery. However, because there may be some swelling, more results can be seen within three weeks following treatment. Full results are noticed after three months when any mild swelling disappears and the normal figure is visible.

Patients are generally pleased with the results of their treatment. Leading a healthy lifestyle through a good diet and regular exercise can help one to maintain their weight and slimmer figure.

Estimated Cost

Liposuction costs vary depending on the amount of treatment received and the area to be treated. Generally, treatment of the abdomen and flanks can cost $5,500 to $10,000. The arms and outer chest can cost anywhere from $4,500 to $7,500. Treatment of the thighs can cost $6,000 to $12,000. The neck and face can cost between $2,800 and $5,000. Treatment of the buttocks can cost $5,500 to $10,000. The calves can cost $4,500 to $7,500. These are estimated costs. Costs will vary depending on the treatment received.

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