Tumescent Liposuction: Is It Right for You?

What do you think of when you hear the word liposuction? A painful surgery? General anesthesia? Long recovery times? Liposuction has changed a lot in the last several years. Today’s tumescent liposuction allows for excess fat removal and body shaping without general anesthesia. It is the safest and most accurate type of liposuction available. Dr. Matarasso is pleased to offer tumescent liposuction in our San Francisco offices.

What is Tumescent Liposuction?

Tumescent liposuction uses a unique type of anesthetic, making it possible to perform the procedure using local anesthesia and perhaps mild sedation. The special anesthetic also constricts the blood vessels reducing unnecessary blood loss and increasing the accuracy and effectiveness of the procedure. IV fluids are not needed during the procedure like with some other types of liposuction. Recovery after tumescent liposuction is faster than traditional liposuction with less bruising and swelling.

Dr. Matarasso enjoys using tumescent liposuction as this method gives him more control over the process with better end results. He loves helping his patients look and feel their best.

An Overview of the Procedure

Tumescent liposuction doesn’t require large cuts or stitches like traditional lipo. Instead a small incision is made in area where excess fat will be removed. A thin suction tube called a cannula is inserted into the incision while a high suction vacuum removes fatty tissue. Few stitches are needed and the minimally invasive approach is less traumatic to the body while still yielding great results.

Another benefit of tumescent liposuction is the lasting pain relief the treatment provides. The tumescent anesthesia used will provide pain relief for the first 36 hours, helping make recovery more pleasant. Dr. Matarasso will discuss your options if additional pain relief is needed.

Recovery from Tumescent Liposuction

After the procedure you may have some pain, bruising or swelling. You will also need to wear compression garments under your clothing for a short period of time. Most people can return to work 2-7 days after the procedure. You’ll start to see results in about 10 days with continued improvement for as long as a year.

If you want to shape, refine and improve your appearance, consider tumescent liposuction. We’d love to discuss your options; give us a call today and find out if this procedure is right for you.