Treatment Center
The Acne
Treatment Center
The Skin Rejuvenation
and Laser Center
– Botox
Facial Fillers:
– Restylane®
– Perlane®
– Fat Transfer
– Fraxel Re: Pair®
– IPL/Photofacials/ PDT
– Laser Hair Removal
– Laser Vein Removal
– Eyelid Rejuvenation
– Liposuction
– Chemical Peels
– Microdermabrasion
Liposuction
The tumescent technique may be the reason liposuction is the number one cosmetic surgery performed in the United States today (according to the A.A.P.S.)
Developed by Dermasurgeons in the mid 1980's, tumescent liposuction was a major advancement and completely changed surgical fat removal. Use of tumescent liposuction allowed Dermasurgeons to safely and effectively remove both deep and superficial excess layers of fat with little discomfort, more rapid healing, and improved cosmetic results. Better yet, tumescent liposuction is unquestionably the safest form of liposuction.
Prior to the 1980's, extensive surgery was usually required to remove stubborn fatty deposits and treatment was often limited to a few areas of the body like the abdomen and buttocks. Now Tumescent liposuction allows Dermasurgeons to remove undesired fat from nearly all body areas including the face, neck, chin, breast, abdomen, hips, flanks (love handles), back, inner and outer thighs, buttocks, knees calves, and ankles.
What is Tumescent Liposuction?
Tumescent liposuction refers to a technique that uses large volumes of very dilute local anesthesia that is injected into the fat causing the targeted areas to become tumescent, or swollen and firm. Use of tumescent liposuction allows dermasurgeons to safely and effectively remove both deep and superficial excess layers of fat with little discomfort, more rapid healing, and improved cosmetic results.
What are the Benefits of Tumescent Liposuction?
Tumescent liposuction using local anesthesia offers the benefits of fewer skin irregularities, less bleeding, reduced bruising, and a faster recovery. This technique is designed to be performed as an outpatient procedure. Thus, the potential complications of general anesthesia and a costly hospital stay can be avoided. In addition, since the patient is awake, he or she is able to sit or stand during the procedure, allowing the surgeon to check the status of the patient and contour the procedure more effectively.
After the procedure, you are expected to stop any strenuous activities such as exercising, lifting or anything that may cause excess swelling to the region treated. After a few days you may return to work, which makes tumescent liposuction a great procedure in itself due to the quick recovery time.
The tumescent technique for liposuction is unquestionably the safest form of liposuction. When tumescent liposuction is done correctly (not excessively) it is a very safe procedure. There have been no reported deaths associated with tumescent liposuction, unlike liposuction that has been performed under general anesthesia.
Although tumescent liposuction is a great advantage to removing fatty deposits you must be a candidate to have tumescent liposuction performed. This is not an alternative to dieting and will not show improvement in those with obesity. A proper evaluation is needed to discuss realistic goals and expectations.
Safety and best outcomes is our priority at Foothill Dermatology Medical Center. This is a checklist to take into account when considering having this procedure performed:
- Check credentials to be sure the doctor performing the procedure is Board Certified and has ACGME training in liposuction. This is critical for your safety. Do not put your life in the hands of doctors who have taken week long training sessions in this procedure
- Ask Questions: How many times has this doctor performed the procedure? Is the doctor, board certified, licensed or otherwise qualified in cosmetic surgery?
- Make sure pre and post-operative instructions are clear and realistic goals are discussed in terms of measurable outcomes. How much fat will be removed? How many clothing sizes will be reduced?
In today’s health arena the patient has the ultimate responsibility in choosing safety and expertise first.
