TUMESCENT LIPOSUCTION

WHAT IS TUMESCENT LIPOSUCTION?

Liposuction was first developed in the late 1970's to remove undesired fat from nearly all body areas, including the face, neck, chin, breast, abdomen, hips, flanks (love handles), inner and outer thighs, buttocks, knees, and ankles. Developed by dermatologist in the late 1980's a major advancement called the tumescent technique completely revolutionized the procedure.

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Before and After

The use of tumescent liposuction allows the dermatologists to safely and effectively remove deep and superficial layers of fat under local anesthesia with relatively little discomfort, virtually no complications and improved cosmetic results. The procedure involves the removal of unwanted fat by using a small, straw-like instrument called a cannula which is attached to suction machine. The fat layer to be treated is injected very slowly with large volumes of fluid. This "tumescent fluid" contains dilute anesthetic, physiologic saline, and a medication called epinephrine which causes small blood vessels to reduce in size. The combination of these three fluids allows the procedure to continue without discomfort or any significant blood loss. The fat layer under the skin is then converted into a network of tunnels by manipulating a small cannula within th fatty layers. After the sculpting is completed, an elastic compression garment is worn for several weeks as healing occurs. The result is a smoothing of the bulging areas into more natural and pleasing contours.

IS IT SAFE?

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Before and After

Patient safety is of paramount importance. Since the tumescent liposuction technique is performed without discomfort under local anesthesia the risk associated with general anesthesia or intravenous sedation is eliminated. The fat layer to be treated is injected very slowly with a mixture of fluids containing a dilute anesthetic for numbing the area, saline solution to enlarge the fat layer and epinephrine to decrease blood loss. The combination of these three fluids are what makes this procedure so safe and revolutionary.

A recent study involving dermatologist surgeons showed that in more than 15,000 patient treatments with tumescent liposuction, no complications occurred which required hospitalization.

IS IT FOR ME?

Liposuction is not a treatment for general obesity. It is also not a substitute for regular exercise and a good healthy diet. Some patients tend to utilize liposuction as a " springboard", thrusting themselves into a new and more healthy lifestyle. Tumescent liposuction has been performed on patients from 14 to 90 years of age, all with great success.

Patients best suited for the procedure are individuals who are in good general health and have easily identifiable and localized "pockets" of fat. Best results are achieved in patients who are close to their ideal body weight and still have bulging areas that are exercise resistant. A preoperative consultation is required to explain the technique and assure that both patient and doctor expectations are reasonable.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?

The procedure is performed in the office and will take half of the day to complete. Multiple areas can be treated in the same session so this is the primary determining factor in how long it takes to complete the procedure. Gentle care is given and we take time to assure that you are not in any discomfort and that the procedure proceeds with your safety in mind. The liposuction procedure is painless and you will be able to participate in conversation, or even talk on the phone during the procedure.

Post procedure garments, supplies and instructions will be supplied to assure an uneventful and smooth recovery period. The garments are comfortable and will give gentle compression during your recovery period.

WHAT ABOUT RECOVERY?

Results can be seen immediatly after tumescent liposuction but final results may take as long as three months to fully appreciate. Most patients need no more than Tylenol for pain management but narcotic analgesics may be used for any discomfort. Every patient is different but most patients resume normal activities in one to two days. Exercise can resume as early as 48 hours and can be performed as tolerated. The garments are not uncomfortable and are unnoticeable under clothing. Dr. Hollabaugh will need to see you in follow-up appointments to assure that the goals set in the initial consultation are achieved.

E-Mail

skindoc@planoderm.com

Plano Dermatology Associates
6300 West Parker Road Suite 424
Plano, Texas 75093
972/608-0330

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