A Look at Tumescent Liposuction

The tumescent technique involves injecting a rather large amount of anesthetic liquid into the excess fat being treated. This fluid injection causes the fat pockets to swell, thereby leaving a pathway between the excess fat and the muscle tissue.

Liposuction is also referred to as lipoplasty, suction-assisted lipectomy and liposculpture.  It is the most commonly performed cosmetic surgery today. Since its inception in 1974, great methodological and technological advances have created more options for patients. One of the most utilized techniques in liposuction is the tumescent technique.

In the past, liposuction required patients to have pre-operative blood transfusions, since the loss of blood was so significant. The tumescent technique is relatively recent and is considered one of the safest options in liposuction; this technique can greatly reduce the swelling, pain, and bruising usually associated with the surgery. Though not completely risk-free, the tumescent method is a good option for many patients.

Any patient that is a good candidate for traditional liposuction is considered a good candidate for tumescent liposuction. The tumescent method can be used on any area of the body but is usually performed on areas that require more detailed sculpturing, such as the face, neck, ankles, arms and calves. A patient that has a large area of fat needing treatment may also be considered a good candidate. This should be an option that is discussed in detail with the qualified physician.

The tumescent technique involves injecting a rather large amount of anesthetic liquid into the excess fat being treated. This fluid injection causes the fat pockets to swell, thereby leaving a pathway between the excess fat and the muscle tissue. This enables a hollow steel tube, called a canulla, to move with ease and precision through the treated area. This method assists in controlling blood loss and swelling.

General anesthesia can be a risk in any surgical procedure; doctor and patient should carefully consider any underlying health issues when discussing anesthesia. Typically, patients undergoing the tumescent method require only a local anesthetic, and many doctors may allow the tumescent solution used in the procedure as the only means of anesthesia.

As with nearly everything regarding plastic surgery, options and results will vary from person to person. Advertisements portraying dramatic before and after results are not always a reflection of reality. A reputable physician should make clear that results vary. Maintaining an open mind is a key factor in being satisfied with the results of the surgery.

Liposuction provides comprehensive information on the costs of standard, tumescent, and abdominal liposuction, before and after information, liposuction alternatives, and more. For more information go to Liposuction and/or visit its sister site at Tummy Tuck Web for related information.

Alternatives When Considering Liposuction

One alternative method to traditional and tumescent liposuction is mesotherapy. Mesotherapy involves a series of injections of varying ingredients. According to advocates of this method, the injected fluid breaks down fatty pockets effectively and is the most minimally invasive of the liposuction techniques.

Generally, it is not a more cost-effective method of getting rid of fat; on average each session costs around $500, and requires multiple repeat sessions to achieve the desired affect. This technique is controversial, and doctors encourage patients to carefully research options prior to deciding on this technique.

Doctors who regularly perform mesotherapy on patients claim that the mixes of chemicals injected under the skin literally melt the fat away. They also claim that not only does mesotherapy fight fat, it can also be used to treat backaches, headaches and neck pain. These surgeons are quick to cite a 1994-95 study claiming that those receiving the injections lost weight even without diet and exercise.

The American Association of Plastic Surgeons (AAPS) says that mesotherapy is not a guaranteed safe or effective method of removing excess fat, citing a lack of research data and evidence. Other critics call the method too good to be true, and do not find the claims to melt fat away credible. They also say that while mesotherapists assert that risk factors are slim and downtime virtually non-existent, no one is quite sure what ingredients these chemical cocktails contain. Some may use various plant extracts, others chemical combinations or mixes of both. The general consensus among physician members of the AAPS is that it cannot be determined to be safe or effective until more hard data and case studies are performed.

Many other alternatives to liposuction are available to consumers. Most are unsupported by the AAPS but are widely available on the Internet and through TV Informercials. These methods tend to have extremely varied results, and are not supported by medical research or studies. Most of these alternative methods are based on the do-it-yourself principle and are backed by testimonials from past and present users of the product.

In the fast-paced world as we live in, many are not satisfied unless they achieve immediate results. Liposuction or liposuction alternatives seem to be the best route to go for many. It is safe to say that liposuction is not for everyone and often the risks will outweigh the benefits. According to the Food and Drug Administration, the only safe and effective alternative to liposuction is the tried and true route of diet and exercise. The FDA also suggests that people learn to accept the way they look and embrace who they are. The bottom line is that as one begins his or her search, they will likely be overwhelmed with advertisements and an overload of information to process. The best advice is to consult with a qualified cosmetic surgeon who will objectively review an individuals needs and weigh the risks and benefits of any given procedure.

Liposuction provides comprehensive information on the costs of standard, tumescent, and abdominal liposuction, before and after information, liposuction alternatives, and more. For more information go to Liposuction and/or visit its sister site at Tummy Tuck Web for related information.