Tumescent liposuction is a relatively new liposuction method that can reduce postoperative bruising, swelling and pain. Any person that is a good candidate for traditional liposuction is also acceptable for tumescent liposuction. The technique can be used on any part of the body but is most frequently used on areas that call for precision, such as the face, neck, arms, calves and ankles. Tumescent Liposuction is also good for patients with large deposits of excess fat.

In the tumescent technique, areas of excess fat are injected with a large amount of anesthetic liquid, containing lidocaine, epinephrine, and intravenous fluid, before liposuction is performed. The liquid causes the compartments of fat to become swollen and firm or "tumesced." The expanded fat compartments allow the liposuction cannula to travel smoothly beneath the skin as the fat is removed. Because blood loss is minimized during tumescent liposuction, use of the technique reduces the chance that a blood transfusion will be needed.

The effects of the anesthetic solution help provide pain relief and decrease the need for further pain reliever. For the next few days following surgery, patients experience swelling, some pain and drainage from the incisions.