In tumescent liposuction, areas of excess fat are injected with a large amount of anesthetic liquid before liposuction is actually made. The anesthetic liquid causes the compartments of fat swollen and firm or “tumescent.” Fat compartments allow the liposuction cannula cover travel smoothly beneath the skin, remove fat. This type of liposuction can be used in any area of the body but is most common in areas that require precision such as facial, neck, arms, calves and ankles.
The tumescent technique is a relatively new method to perform liposuction to reduce post-operative bruising, swelling and pain. Blood loss is minimized during tumescent liposuction, and this technique also reduces the chances that a blood transfusion will be needed during the procedure.
Although blood loss is minimized with tumescent liposuction, patients undergoing the procedure still face the same risks associated with traditional liposuction. Some of the risks with this type of liposuction include pulmonary edema (fluid in lungs) and lidocaine lidocaine toxicity (too much).
General anesthesia is often the best option for the tumescent liposuction procedure. Or, if appropriate, the tumescent solution may serve as the sole means of anesthesia for the procedure. Your plastic surgeon will examine all options of anesthesia with you at your appointment.
The process
The warm tumescent fluid (containing lidocaine, epinephrine and intravenous fluid) is injected into the treatment area. As the liquid enters the fat, swollen, firm and pale. Liposuction is then performed in areas tumescent.
The anesthesia used in the procedure can help relieve pain after a liposuction and decrease the need for additional analgesics to be determined. For the first two days after surgery, most patients experience swelling in areas that have been treated and drainage of fluid from the incision sites. Patients usually resume light physical activity in the first days after surgery, and normal physical activity can be resumed within weeks.
Patients typically see a noticeable difference almost immediately after surgery. After three weeks, further improvements can be observed by most of the swelling has disappeared. After about three months, any persistent swelling disappears, and its shape and contour will be visible.
Since all the liquid that is injected during the procedure was withdrawn, the weight after Tumescent liposuction can be the same or less than their original weight. As excess fluid and swelling of the tissues are treated by your body, your weight should normalize.
Drainage from the incision is common with liposuction. Sometimes a small rubber tube drain is inserted under the skin for a few days to prevent fluid from accumulating. You may have to take antibiotics while the drains are in place, and as the main drain has stopped completely, you may need additional gauze pads to keep your clothes are wet.
To learn more about liposuction and lipsculpture treatments available in the Atlanta area, Georgia, please contact Dr. Rusca in reconstructive plastic surgery and cosmetic surgeons, PC today to schedule your appointment you original.
