In-Office Body Liposuction Under Local Anesthesia with Minimal Downtime

By Dr. Christopher Cote and Dr. Nicolette Picerno on August 17, 2020 under Liposuction

In-Office Body Liposuction Under Local Anesthesia with Minimal Downtime

Have you been trying to get rid of stubborn fat that doesn’t go even with exercising and a proper diet? It’s a common problem that affects areas such as the thighs, underarms, abdomen area, waist, and neck. Fortunately, modern cosmetic surgery has identified minimally invasive ways to get rid of fat, and one way is through liposuction. But what is it? Are you the right candidate for it? Is it done under local or general anesthesia? These questions and many more will be answered here.

What is Tumescent Liposuction?

Tumescent Liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure that sucks out stubborn fat deposits from your body, giving you the perfect body contour you’ve been looking for.

Are You an Ideal Candidate for Liposuction Under Local Anesthesia?

Generally, most people are good candidates for Tumescent Liposuction provided you have the following:

  • You are a healthy adult with no threatening medical conditions.
  • You are a non-smoker.
  • You have realistic goals and expectations for the body contouring procedure.
  • You have excess fat deposits that won’t go away, even with exercising and diet.

Your cosmetic surgeon will examine your body and expectations to see if the procedure suits your needs.

General Anesthesia vs. Local Anesthesia

Liposuction procedures can be performed under either general or local anesthesia. With local anesthesia, you will be awake throughout the procedure, although numb. General anesthesia puts you to sleep during the liposuction procedure. While both techniques yield beautiful results, some differences could help you prefer one over the other. Basically, both approaches numb the operating site and make the procedure bearable by reducing swelling and bruising.

The Benefits of Liposuction Under Local Anesthesia

  • Much reduced risk of complications since you’ll be awake throughout the procedure.
  • Shorter recovery, less trauma to tissues, no general anesthesia fogginess
  • Often more affordable compared to general anesthesia.
  • Reduced chances of post-operative nausea.
  • Much less pain.

Liposuction Under Local Anesthesia

Although liposuction under both general and local anesthesia has its share of pros and cons, cosmetic surgeons may recommend liposuction under local anesthesia for the right candidates. The approach allows you to become more responsive to repositioning during the procedure to confirm symmetry. Your cosmetic surgeon may offer various methods such as syringe liposuction, tumescent liposuction, and laser liposuction.

The best technique for your case relies significantly on your goals, anatomy, and needs. Ensure that your cosmetic surgeon is licensed to perform liposuction under local anesthesia. You may need to take some rest after surgery. Your cosmetic surgeon will prescribe some pain medication to help you cope well with the pain once the local anesthesia in your system fades off.

Schedule a Consultation in Denver or Lone Tree

Have you been considering liposuction, but the only thing standing between you and your cosmetic goals is a list of endless concerns and questions about the safety of the procedure? Don’t worry; at FacesFirst Cosmetic Surgery, we have the right tools and expertise to make your goals achievable. Schedule a consultation today to speak to us and let us be the help you need.