Experience with tumescent technique in lipoplasty.

Tumescent injection of tissues in preparation for suction lipectomy appears to be safe and effective. It allows lipoplasty of a wide range of volumes and areas in an office setting under oral sedation and without the need for fluid replacement. Few plastic surgeons believe this or have experience with the technique. This article documents the study of the characteristics of tumescent injection, demonstrates its effectiveness and utility, and addresses issues raised by those who doubt that this is a major improvement in accomplishing suction lipectomy. One hundred consecutive cases were treated over two and a half years without using any intravenous fluid or intravenous medication. Results of this survey are tabulated and discussed. They show the safety and advantages of this adjunct to lipoplasty.