subject: Learn About The Different Types Of Liposuction [print this page] Liposuction is a popular cosmetic surgery procedure. It is used to remove unwanted fat from several different areas of the body. The procedure involves placing some solution into the fat area, and then the area is probed using a suction device to remove the fat.
This tool, called a cannula, removes the fat cells from the body, often leaving the patient with a much more flattering shape and improved contour.
Ideal patients for liposuction are those that have realistic expectations. Patients cannot be grossly overweight for the procedure to be beneficial. Moderately good skin tone is also important to have as the procedure also relies on the ability of the skin to retract and tighten. Loose or hanging skin with fat deposits will require other procedures in addition to liposuction to correct. Liposuction is great for patients that have stubborn areas of fat deposits that do not respond to diet or exercise.
If you think that you are a good candidate, a consultation with a surgeon will confirm this and the many options will be discussed. The biggest decision is what type of liposuction is best for you.
There are seven main types of liposuction. The gold standard is called tumescent liposuction which requires infusing a dilution of anesthetic agents and salt water into the area to be suctioned. This helps break up the fat and makes suctioning easier and has the most predictable results. Ultrasonic liposuction is another option. It involves a suctioning device that uses ultrasonic sound waves that are directed in the fat to help break up the deposits. Power assisted liposuction utilizes a suctioning device that uses vibrations to break down the fat for easier removal.
Laser liposuction is becoming very popular. It also involves a cannula, which inserts a laser beam into the fat deposits for simple removal. Liposelection uses suction with ultrasonic energy to allow for easy removal of the undesired fat cells. The last type of liposuction is a catch-all category for non-invasive techniques. They minimize the fat, without any incisions or surgeries. Examples include Zerona, Thermage, Mesotherapy, VelaShapeTM, and LipodissolveTM.
The general principles of liposuction are the same despite the techniques used. Some doctors offer most or all options, and some offer few. For the most part in medicine, when too many options are available, the older and traditional method works the best, and this is probably true regarding liposuction as well, using the original tumescent technique. There is a lot of media coverage and magazine marketing directed at the consumer regarding liposuction devices. The various options make the selection of the appropriate method sometimes confusing for the patient, and this is why a consultation with your cosmetic and plastic surgeon is so important to review your case as it relates to the methods used to improve fat collections and body contour
Liposuction is not considered to be a weight loss procedure. It does not prevent a patient from regaining weight in any way. A proper diet and exercise regimen must be maintained for the patient to keep his or her new shape.
