Minimally invasive cosmetic surgery, also known as “cosmetic surgery”, refers to surgical procedures created to improve the appearance of the face or body. These procedures are generally less invasive than traditional surgery and often involve smaller incisions, shorter recovery times and fewer complications. An example of minimally invasive cosmetic surgery is awake liposuction, or “tumescent liposuction”.

Awake liposuction is a technique that involves the use of local anaesthesia to numb the treatment area, rather than general anaesthesia, which puts the patient to sleep. This allows the patient to remain awake and alert during the procedure while reducing the risks associated with general anaesthesia.

Awake liposuction was developed in the 1980s by a dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Jeffrey Klein. Klein’s technique involved injecting a large volume of a dilute anaesthetic solution (known as a “tumescent solution”) into the treatment area, reducing bleeding, swelling and discomfort during the procedure.

Since its introduction, awake liposuction has become famous for patients seeking to reshape their figure and reduce body fat. The procedure involves using a thin, hollow tube called a cannula inserted through a small incision in the skin. The cannula is used to suction excess fat from the area to be treated, resulting in a slimmer, more shapely appearance.

Awake liposuction offers several advantages over traditional liposuction techniques. In addition to the use of local anaesthetic, awake liposuction also involves smaller incisions, resulting in less scarring and faster recovery time. The procedure is also less painful, with less risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, and numbness.

In conclusion, awake liposuction is a minimally invasive cosmetic surgery that has evolved over the last few decades to become a safer and more comfortable alternative to traditional liposuction techniques. Local anaesthesia and smaller incisions have made the procedure more accessible and convenient for patients wishing to reshape their figure and reduce body fat.

For more information about Minimally Invasive liposuction, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Jonathan Kanevsky at his Beverly Hills plastic surgery clinic. To book, call 424-222-9352.

1. Klein, Jeffrey. “Tumescent Technique for Local Anesthesia Improves Safety in Large-Volume Liposuction.” Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, vol. 77, no. 1, 1986, pp. 146-154.
2. Fodor, Paul B., et al. “Awake Liposuction: A Review.” Dermatologic Surgery, vol. 36, no. 3, 2010, pp. 313-318.
3. Motakef, Shahram, et al. “Awake Liposuction: A Safe and Effective Alternative to Traditional Liposuction.” Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, vol. 128, no. 4, 2011, pp. 823-830.
4. Rohrich, Rod J., et al. “Awake Liposuction: A Comprehensive Review.” Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, vol. 130, no. 4, 2012, pp. 809-820.