Tumescent liposculpture is a new form of liposuction.  Sterile fluid is infused into the fatty tissues, softening and liquefying the fat making for easier removal and body shaping.

How does it differ from conventional liposusction?

 Conventional liposuction does not soften the fat with large volumes of fluid.  Because the fluid contains anesthetic no general anesthesia is required.  Conventional liposuction utilizes general anesthesia.  Tumescent liposculpture utilizes local anesthesia.  At our clinic we give the patients “twilight” anesthesia (intravenous sedation) in addition to the local anesthesia for the patients comfort.

What other differences are there?

 The “softening” of the fat allows for the use of a smaller, non-sharp suctioning tubes (cannulas).  Thus the fat can be removed more gently with tumescent liposculpture and more safely too.

Why is tumescent liposculpture safer that conventional liposuction?

Blood loss with tumescent liposculpture is minimal whereas blood loss can be substantial and life threatening with liposuction.  The more gentle removal of fat also allows for faster recovery, less bruising and a better cosmetic result.

How soon can I return to work and activities?

 Most patients return to work in two to three days and the gym for workouts in a week!

What is a cannula and how big is it?

The cannula is the instrument used to remove the fat.  The cannula is approximately a third of a width of a pencil.  If Dr. O’Neil is doing the face, he will use a thinner cannula.

How big are the incisions?

The incisions are about 1/4  to 1/3 inches long.

Do the incisions leave scar?

Anytime you cut the skin, there will be a small scar.  You can bring a bathing suit, so that the Dr. can try and make the incisions more inconspicuous.

Is there a lot of pain?

What you feel is actually more of discomfort than pain the first day or two.  The anesthetic that is injected decreases the pain and discomfort.  The discomfort is usually upon movement, not a constant pain.  Dr. O’Neil does prescribe medication in case you need it for discomfort.

What kind of pain?

The muscles will feel stiff and sore, similar to starting a strenuous workout and over doing it.

When can I start exercising?

You may begin walking and light activity the day after the procedure progressing to your tolerance level.  It is generally ok to start exercising a week after the procedure.

Can I get a tummy tuck with Lipo?

What makes you think that you need a tummy tuck?
If young, you will probably not need a tummy tuck.  The skin will retract back.  You can discuss this with Dr. O’Neil during your consult.

What if I have high blood pressure and diabetes?

You will need to visit your personal physician to get a physical exam.  If  you are over 50 you will need an  EKG and your Doctor would have to clear you for the procedure.  Once your personal physician says it is okay, then we will proceed.

• Will my skin be “loose” after liposculpture?

 Tumescent liposculpture will cause your skin to shrink and tighten.  Dr. O’Neil may also add laser lipolysis or “Smart Lipo” to further tighten your skin. Our patients rarely need a tummy tuck or abdominalplasty.