Tumescent liposuction has been around since the mid 1980s. But what is it, exactly? And how does it compare to other methods of liposuction?

Tumescent Liposuction Defined

Tumescent liposuction is a fat removal surgery that utilizes large volumes of highly diluted solutions of local anesthesia mixed with saline. This solution is injected into the fatty tissue and numbs the liposuction area. Invented by Jeffrey Klein, MD, this technique allows surgeons to perform liposuction with the patient fully conscious.

Tumescent liposuction is considered a major advancement that has completely changed fat removal surgery. Although patients who feel overly nervous may require a mild sedative, liposuction by tumescent solution virtually eliminates the need for general anesthesia and reduces the amount of blood lost during surgery, a common problem associated with more traditional methods of liposuction.

How Tumescent Liposuction is Performed

First, an anesthetic is injected into the skin where the incision is to be made. After the skin is nice and numb, a small incision is made in the area with a scalpel, needle, or punch. It is through this incision that the liposuction tube will be inserted. This tube is attached to a surgical vacuum, which suctions out the fat.

After widening the skin incision, a small catheter is inserted. It is through this catheter that the anesthetic or tumescent solution is administered, using either a needle or pump. After the local anesthetic has been administered, one or two liposuction tubes are inserted and the fat is sucked out.

Once the surgeon determines the procedure to be complete, a small suture or two will be placed to close the incision site. A compression bandage is then applied. After that, the patient can get dressed and go home.

Risks and Side Effects of Tumescent Liposuction

As is the case with every surgical procedure, tumescent liposuction has its risks.

The following are those most commonly reported:

• Loose skin or skin folds.

• Uneven skin, with depressions and lumps.

• Skin numbness.

• Uneven pigmentation.

• Blood clots.

• Excessive fluid retention or fluid loss.

• Infection.

• Burn or injury from ultrasound device.

• Bleeding.

• Skin discoloration.

• Pain.

• Damage to deeper tissue structures.

• Inadequate wound healing

• Deep vein thrombosis.

It is quite normal for patients to feel some form of discomfort after the numbing effect of the tumescent liposuction solution wears off. However, most patients are able to enjoy their regular activities of daily living within a few days, with the exception of exercise, which is not recommended until a week or two after the surgery.