Frequent Questions About Tumescent Liposuction

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Below you will find a list of frequent questions about tumescent liposuction from our Miami and Fort Lauderdale patients. If you do not find the information you are looking for, feel free to contact us with your questions. Please remember to include the name of the procedure you're considering along with your question.

• How is tumescent liposuction performed?
• How do I prepare for tumescent liposuction?
• How long does this procedure take?
• What form of anesthesia is used?
• Can I return home the same day?
• How long before I can return to normal activity?
• Does tumescent liposuction also remove cellulite?
• Will my fat come back after tumescent liposuction?

How is tumescent liposuction performed?

In general, our Fort Lauderdale and Miami cosmetic surgeons perform liposuction by using small incisions to insert a tiny vacuum that removes fat cells. After the fat is removed, the surgeon will stitch (suture) the treated areas and apply a bandage or garment to help re-drape the skin and contain swelling.

The tumescent technique involves injecting a saline solution and local anesthetic into the areas to be treated prior to suctioning. Injecting this fluid makes the area "tumescent," or swollen, to allow for easier separation of fat cells from other tissue. An incision is made near the area from which the fat will be removed and a specially designed surgical tube (cannula) is placed through the incision into the fat. The cannula is attached by flexible tubing to a vacuum pump that removes the fat by suction as the cannula is manipulated beneath the skin. Compared to conventional liposuction techniques offered in Miami and Fort Lauderdale, the tumescent technique is more precise, involves less blood loss, facilitates the removal of more fat and shortens patient convalescence time. This is an excellent method for adult individuals of all ages with excessive fat deposits—even those with very loose skin.

How do I prepare for tumescent liposuction?

During your initial preoperative visit with your surgeon, we ask that you provide a complete medical history, including all known allergies, current medications and previous surgical procedures. You will undergo a thorough physical examination and blood tests. An electrocardiogram is required for patients over the age of forty.

Photographs are very helpful aids when planning and performing your liposculpture. They become a permanent part of your patient record and are taken both before and several months after your procedure.

During your consultation, you will be given specific steps to take in preparation for your procedure. These instructions may include cautions about taking certain medications or drinking alcohol, and protocols for shaving and using antibacterial soap.

You must stop smoking and taking aspirin or diet pills at least two weeks prior to the procedure. You also must not eat or drink anything eight hours before your procedure. If you take daily medication, ask your surgeon if it is safe to take before your procedure. If you have any sores on your body, a common cold, a sore throat or an allergic condition, it is important that you inform your surgeon so that you may be examined prior to your procedure.

How long does this procedure take?

Tumescent liposculpture cosmetic plastic surgery generally takes between two and four hours at our Miami or Fort Lauderdale locations, depending on how many areas are treated and the total volume of fat being removed.

What form of anesthesia is used?

A local anesthetic will be blended into the saline solution that your surgeon will inject into areas between your fat and muscle tissues. This local anesthetic will enable you to remain awake and pain-free during your procedure, and will greatly reduce any discomfort during the first 72 hours that follow your surgery. Additional medications will be subscribed to keep you comfortable throughout your recovery.

Can I return home the same day?

Yes. However, you must make arrangements for someone to pick you up, take you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours.

All Patients must schedule check-up appointments for the following times:

• 1 day
• 1 week
• 1 month
• 3 months
• 6 months
• 1 year

How long before I can return to normal activity?

Most of our Fort Lauderdale and Miami liposuction patients return to work and everyday activities within a week, depending on the extent of the areas treated.

Does tumescent liposuction also remove cellulite?

No. Tumescent liposuction only removes deposited fat. However, cellulite can now be treated with a procedure that involves a series of roller-like massages known as endermologie.

Will my fat come back after tumescent liposuction?

The human body produces all of its fat cells when we are young, totally halting production at puberty. When we gain or lose weight, the cells get bigger or smaller but the total number of cells will never change. Liposuction permanently removes fat cells. They will never come back and new fat cells cannot be produced. You can, however, gain weight in your body’s remaining fat cells. But you will gain that new fat evenly over your entire body rather than suffering another disproportionate buildup of fat in your "problem area."