Current status of tumescent liposuction in the United States. National survey results.

BACKGROUND

Tumescent liposuction is an extremely safe method of liposuction that can be performed entirely under local anesthesia.

OBJECTIVE

To determine evolving trends in the current practice of tumescent liposuction in 15,336 patients treated by 66 dermatologic surgeons.

METHODS

A survey questionnaire was sent to 1,778 Fellows of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery in February 1994. The comprehensive questionnaire requested information on the number of patients treated with tumescent liposuction, complications, and various practice issues.

RESULTS

Sixty-six dermatologic surgeons provided data on 15,336 patients; 44,014 body areas were treated. The complications that developed were infrequent and minor and have been reported previously. The average amount of fat removed per patient was 1,276 cc. An average of 33 cc of blood was lost per patient per procedure. Cannulas of 4.0 mm or less in diameter were commonly used. The abdomen and outer thighs were the most common areas treated in women. The flanks/love handles and abdomen were the most common areas treated in men. Intraoperative monitoring of vital signs was common.

CONCLUSIONS

Tumescent liposuction is an evolving technique that has virtually eliminated blood transfusions and the major complications of liposuction under general anesthesia. Large amounts of fat can be removed using small diameter cannulas. The fat can be safely removed with a minimum risk of minor complications.