Is Tumescent liposuction lymph sparing?

Question

I'm 22 and have stage 1 lipedema, where the body stores abnormal exercise resistant fat. I'm going to get liposuction for it and have read that if you have lipedema the liposuction has to be lymph sparing. I know WAL, vaser, pal are considered lymph sparing but what I really need to know is if tumescent liposuction with traditional syringe/canula Lipo is considered lymph sparing also? Does using tumescent in itself make it as lymph sparing? Even as much as something like Wal Lipo? Thank you

David Amron, MD · Answer

Hello there,Thank you for your question. Tumescent liposuction is not by itself lymphatic sparing. To me, what lymphatic sparing signifies the surgeon’s skill to only stay in the certain subcutaneous layer and not damage deeper branches. General anesthesia I feel would be more difficult to do this surgery, a surgeon can potentially poke into deeper tissues and damage the lymphatics. To me, tumescent liposuction has a greater chance in not damaging the lymphatics. Please be sure to seek a board-certified surgeon for your medical needs and proper treatment. Thank you and best wishes.

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

Of all of the techniques, the least damage is caused to the lymphatics by the tumescent liposuction procedure.

Mariusz Sapijaszko, MD, FRCPC · Answer

Pure tumescent liposuction (developed by Dr. Jeff Klein) is the procedure that spares lymphatic tissues the most. I recommend that you seek a consultation and an assessment from a doctor experienced with all kinds of liposuction prior to proceeding with any procedures.I hope that helps and best regards, Dr. Sapijaszko.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  As lipedema becomes more readily recognized as a distinct fat cell issue, and patients no longer have to reiterate "no, lipedema, not lymphedema" liposuction as a treatment will only grow in prevalence.  You will find various answers to your question on this website, but in general, traditional tumescent liposuction can be lymph sparing, by avoiding the major lymphatic basins in the body, and using a delicate technique.  Traditional tumescent liposuction uses tapered cannulas that help push arteries, veins, and lymphatics away from the area being suctioned.  I hope this helps.

David Finkle, MD · Answer

All tumescent liposuction techniques are lymph sparing,  it also spares the blood vessels and the nerves.

Is Tumescent liposuction lymph sparing?

Answers (5)