Tumescent liposuction technique  involves fluid injection prior to liposuction. Basically, this fluid contains physiologic saline, local anesthesic and vessel narrowing agents. The amount of fluid may be equal to (wet technique) or larger (super wet technique) than the amount of fat to be suctioned. Aim of this manuever is to reduce bleeding, relieve pain and take out fat easily.

In classical liposuction, adipose tissue is released by mechanical movement of the blunt ends of the cannula under the skin and extracted with negative pressure. In laser, ultrasonic, radiofrequency liposuction techniques, the breakdown of fats is achieved with high energy exposure. Finally, the released or emulsified fat cells are pulled out with negative pressure and removed from the body. 

Some of the fluid injected and  fragmented fat cells will retain subcutaneously. An oily, pinkish drainage over the first few days or removed by the lymphatic system over time.