Discover the Innovation Behind Tumescent Local Anaesthesia (TLA)
The International Society for Tumescent Anaesthesia Liposuction (ISTAL) is a pioneering global organization founded in May 2025 on the island of Kos, Greece — the birthplace of Hippocrates. ISTAL is dedicated to promoting the safe, standardized, and evidence-based practice of liposuction using Tumescent Local Anaesthesia (TLA).
This revolutionary approach offers numerous advantages over traditional liposuction methods, allowing for safer outpatient procedures without the risks associated with general anaesthesia.
Why ISTAL?
Safety-First Approach
TLA eliminates the need for general anaesthesia, significantly reducing surgical risks and improving patient recovery times.
Global Knowledge Exchange
ISTAL brings together dermatologists, dermatosurgeons, and aesthetic professionals from around the world — fostering collaboration, research, and continuous learning.
Establishing Global Standards
The society is currently developing the Global Tumescent Liposuction Standards (GTLS) to ensure consistent, high-quality outcomes across all practices.
Professional Community with Purpose
Through education, certification, and international networking, ISTAL empowers professionals to deliver the highest level of care in liposuction.
What is Tumescent Local Anaesthesia Liposuction?
TLA is a technique where a specific solution (including lidocaine, adrenaline, sodium bicarbonate, and saline) is injected into subcutaneous fat, causing the area to become swollen and firm (tumescent). This allows for:
- Profound local anaesthesia without the need for general anaesthesia
- Minimal bleeding and bruising
- Faster recovery times and lower complication rates
- Outpatient procedures with same-day discharge
TLA has transformed how liposuction is performed — making it safer, less invasive, and more efficient.
Mission & Vision
ISTAL’s mission is clear: to protect, promote, and advance the practice of TLA-based liposuction worldwide. It does so by setting international guidelines, offering training programs, and creating a platform for innovation, research, and knowledge-sharing.
Whether you’re an experienced practitioner or just entering the field, ISTAL offers the tools and network to elevate your practice.
Who Should Join ISTAL?
- Dermatologists and dermatosurgeons currently using or interested in TLA
- Aesthetic and surgical clinics aiming to upgrade their safety and procedural efficiency
- Medical professionals and researchers seeking global collaboration and certification
Get Involved Today
Visit istalipo.org to explore the vision, events, and resources.
Apply for membership or fellowship and become part of a growing global movement.
Learn about the latest TLA protocols and integrate cutting-edge practices into your clinical work.
Conclusion
As patient safety and surgical precision become more important than ever, ISTAL stands at the forefront of modern liposuction.
If you’re looking to practice smarter, safer, and more effectively — join the global community leading the way in Tumescent Local Anaesthesia Liposuction.
Dr Ioannis Peros
President & Secretary-General
Dr. Ioannis Peros is a dermatologist and dermatosurgeon with over 30 years of expertise in clinical and surgical dermatology. He trained in Greece, Germany, France, Switzerland, and the USA, gaining extensive international experience. His mastery and dedication were recognized with the Outstanding Contribution to Dermatosurgery award by Prof. Lawrence Field at the ASDS Annual Meeting, 2013.
