Dermatologic Origins of Liposuction

A preference for local anaesthesia an aversion to the high costs of hospital operating rooms and scepticism about established surgical dogma explain why a dermatologist invented the tumescent liposuction technique.

The tumescent liposuction technique has a natural appeal to dermatologists and is uniquely compatible with traditional dermatologic surgical training. Dermatologists prefer local anaesthesia for skin surgery and abhor the complications associated with general anaesthesia. They have training, the patience and the experience to deal with patients who are awake and alert. Without such qualifications it is nearly impossible to do liposuction without general anaesthesia, IV sedation or narcotic analgesia.

The perceived value of the tumescent liposuction technique depends on the surgeons’ education. Training that inculcates a preference for general anaesthesia usually does not emphasize the benefit of having an awake patient. The distinction between necessary and convenient forms of anaesthesia is often disregarded. Extensive training with general anaesthesia does not afford much opportunity to acquire the experience and temperament needed to manage an alert patient during surgery. On the other hand most dermatologic surgeons are exclusively trained to use local anaesthesia. Using general anaesthesia is rarely necessary.