Background: Tumescent local anesthesia (TLA) with lidocaine or prilocaine solutions is widely used in dermatology. Objective: Comparison of efficacy and safety of lidocaine and prilocaine in liposuctions with TLA. Methods: TLA was performed using defined dilutions of lidocaine or prilocaine. Half-side comparisons were applied on 26 patients undergoing symmetric liposuction. Pain reduction (overall sensation and pain at lancet prick) and tolerance were assessed before, during and 2-24 h after liposuction. Results: No differences in overall pain sensation between the substances were detected during and after liposuction except a more rapid onset with lidocaine (less pain after 15 min, p <0.043). Local tolerance of both substances was excellent. Conclusion: Lidocaine and prilocaine used in TLA for liposuction show good efficacy and tolerance. A fixed combination of lidocaine and prilocaine may reduce the risk of side effects when great quantities of TLA are needed.
