4800 Montgomery Lane
Bethesda, MD 20814
Tel: 301 907-7250
Fax: 301 907-7234
email: skincare@laserderm.net
© 1999-2002, D. Green, MD
Last Updated: June 20, 2002
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Liposuction was developed in the late 1970s by Dr. Illouz in Paris, France. It was introduced into the United States in 1981. The Tumescent Liposuction technique was introduced in 1986 by a California dermatologist, Dr. Jeffrey Klein. It is considered a safe procedure and only rarely have serious side effects been reported. It is an outpatient procedure in which there is no need for general anesthesia or deep sedation. Most people are awake and have minimal discomfort. Older liposuction techniques that use non-tumescent, i.e., dry, or partial tumescent techniques have been fraught with more complications and require general anesthesia and intravenous sedation. Dr. Green utilizes Tumescent Liposuction to remove unwanted fat deposits that have been resistant to diet and exercise. It is not intended as a weight loss procedure but instead is a technique to recontour the body. After treatment, your weight may be reduced by only one to a few pounds. That's because, for any given volume, fat weighs much less than other tissue such as muscle. More important than weight loss is the way clothing fits after treatment. Sites that are most commonly treated include the inner and outer thighs ('saddlebags'), abdomen, flanks ('love handles'), waist, arms and neck. Optimal and lasting results are best maintained with a weight management program that incorporates a regular exercise regimen and an appropriate and balanced diet. |
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Who is a good candidate for Tumescent Liposuction?
The ideal candidate is someone who is in good health, actively exercises, and is of normal body weight but has localized fat deposits. Even those who are mildly to moderately overweight may be good candidates.
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When may I resume normal activities?
Normal activity may be resumed immediately if tolerated. While, some may prefer to relax for a few days after liposuction, others feel that they can resume most activities as soon as the day after liposuction.
What is the recovery period?
There may be some mild bruising and swelling, but often these are minimal. These changes may be gone within 1 to 2 weeks.
Do any special garments need to be worn?
A compression garment is worn overlying the treated sites for 2 weeks. It is removed for bathing but should, otherwise, be worn at all times.
Is Tumescent Liposuction painful?
Discomfort is usually mild and persists for a few days. Most people require only a non-prescription analgesic. However, a stronger analgesic is prescribed if required.
Am I awake during the procedure?
Yes. During the procedure you are awake but, if you prefer to be mildly sedated, an oral sedative can be given.
When can I bathe?
Bathing can be done anytime after the procedure. You may shower and bathe after liposuction just as before. After bathing the compression garment needs to be worn.
Will the fat reappear?
After puberty, it is generally agreed that new fat cells do not appear. When fat cells are removed with liposuction, they are not replaced. However, the existing fat cells will enlarge or shrink based upon any overall weight gain or loss, respectively.
How long do the results of liposuction last?
The results are long-lasting as long as there is no significant weight gain. If weight is gained, the weight is distributed proportionately, just as before liposuction. It does not preferentially redeposit at sites previously treated by liposuction.
How long does the procedure take?
Tumescent Liposuction can take from 2 to 5 hours depending upon the number of areas treated. Many people have more than one site treated, e.g., outer thighs and abdomen.
Can skin irregularities appear?
Skin irregularities are uncommon with Tumescent Liposuction. Such irregularities are more common after the non-tumescent liposuction.
Is the procedure dangerous?
There is risk with any medical procedure. However, the Tumescent Liposuction technique is considered very safe, with life-threatening complications almost unheard of.
How can I learn more about Tumescent Liposuction?
You may contact the office and schedule a consultation with Dr Green. During this visit, the procedure is discussed in detail, your skin will be examined and treatment recommendations will be outlined.
Do you have a question? - Email: skincare@laserderm.net