Bariatric surgery has gained popularity in recent years, but it comes with surgical risks, a substantial recovery period, and delayed results. Dr. Ariel Ostad, a Board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon, explains when and why tumescent liposuction is a better choice for some NYC patients.

What is the tumescent technique?

Liposuction removes fat with suction. Common treatment areas include:

• Face
• Neck
• Hips
• Thighs
• Buttocks
• Abdomen
• Arms

With the tumescent technique, a substantial amount of liquid (two to six times the volume of fat to be removed) is infused into fat. This solution contains lidocaine, a local anesthetic, and epinephrine to shrink capillaries, diluted with saline. Fat is broken up with mechanical suction. Then the solution and fat are suctioned out with tubes inserted through small incisions.

Tumescent liposuction dramatically increases patient comfort to the point that general anesthetic is not usually needed. It also reduces risk of post-procedure complications from bleeding.

When tumescent liposuction makes sense

While you lose inches and some weight with liposuction, it is not a cure for obesity. Other programs such as bariatric surgery may be necessary for individuals who need to lose 100 pounds or more for health reasons.

Tumescent liposuction is ideal for those who carry no more than 60 excess pounds, and have zones of fat that stubbornly resist healthy eating and exercise. Dr. Ostad is extremely skilled in using tumescent liposuction to sculpt body contours for attractive results. Depending on the treatment area, this outpatient procedure takes just a few hours. Recovery time is about a week, and results emerge within three months. Since the adult body does not produce new fat cells, improvement is long-term.

NYC residents are fortunate to have several non- and minimally-invasive fat reduction techniques including tumescent liposuction available. To learn more, call 646-798-9494 for a consultation.