With all of the different types of liposuction out there, it can be difficult to keep track of what's what. Unfortunately, though, if you're considering undergoing liposuction, knowing what you're buying--and what your body will be undergoing--is of the utmost importance. This article will help explain tumescent liposuction, which is one of the most popular forms of liposuction on the market.
Tumescent liposuction was developed in the mid-eighties. In tumescent liposuction, large quantities of liquid are injected into the target area. These fluids include lidocaine, which is a local anesthetic which helps to numb the pain, and epinephrine, which acts to shrink the blood vessels. The use of lidocaine eliminated the need for general anesthesia, which significantly reduces the dangers of surgery. Because epinephrine shrinks the blood vessels, blood loss also tends to be minimized in tumescent liposuction. All of these factors made tumescent liposuction more appealing than the dry liposuction which previously had been performed.
The large quantities of fluid injected during tumescent liposuction cause the fatty tissue to tumesce, or become firm and swollen. When the fat is swollen and firm, the surgeon can more easily and accurately remove it.
However, there are still definitely risks associated with tumescent liposuction. As with all types of liposuction, there is the danger of minor or cosmetic complications. Scarring and bruising are relatively common. There is also the possibility of a lumpy appearance or saggy, excess skin if too much fat is removed at a time.
The large amounts of fluid used in tumescent liposuction are one of its benefits, but they can also lead to problems. Sometimes the amount of lidocaine injected is too high, and this leads to a problem called lidocaine toxicity. This is a potentially serious problem. Also, if the surgeon injects too much fluid into the target area, it is possible for this to lead to an accumulation of fluid in the lungs.
While the potential for complications cannot be eliminated entirely, they can be drastically reduced. One thing you can do to help reduce risks is to make sure that you choose an experienced and skilled surgeon. The quality of your liposuction will depend in large measure on the skill of your surgeon. Research different offices in your area, and realize that it doesn't always pay to go with the very cheapest. You're much better off going with someone that you know will do a good job.
Also, as with any surgery, you will want to have a certain base level of health. The healthier you are, the better you will recover from your surgery, which will also improve your results.