subject: What Liposuction Techniques Are Available To Me? [print this page] As the technology of cosmetic surgery has evolved, new and varied methods of suction lipectomy have arisen to make the procedure more effective and comfortable for patients. It's the fastest way to get or keep the smart figure of New York fashion models or Los Angeles movie stars.
Tumescent liposuction is currently considered the safest and most effective method by most cosmetic surgeons; however, there are several other techniques that are also widely used, often in conjunction with tumescent liposuction. Some of these other methods include Ultrasonic liposuction, Power Assisted Liposuction, and laser assisted liposuction.
Tumescent liposuction involves an injection of tumescent fluid--containing mainly lidocaine to act as an anesthetic and epinephrine to close capillaries and reduce bleeding--that causes fat deposits to swell and become firm. This effect makes the fat easier to remove. Tumescent liposuction is generally the preferred method because it reduces, if not eliminates many of the unpleasant side effects of other methods.
Ultrasonic Assisted Liposuction (UAL) utilizes high-frequency sound waves to liquefy fat deposits. It is particularly useful in removing fat from otherwise hard-to-treat areas of the body such as the neck, chin, cheeks, knees, calves, and ankles, generally making it a popular supplement to tumescent liposuction. However, ultrasonic liposuction does produce heat which may cause burns, blisters or scars. Of course, an experienced surgeon will be able to minimize those risks.
Another method available is called Power Assisted Liposuction, or PAL. This methods incorporates specialized tools that give the surgeon more precise control, making it easier to remove unwanted fat. These tools use small, high-speed vibrations to break up fat and make it easier to remove. PAL is considered the one of the gentlest forms of lipoplasty because the vibrating cannula reduces the amount of force the surgeon must use to remove fat.
Laser assisted liposuction is a relatively new form of fat removal. It uses a small laser, inserted through the cannula, to melt unwanted body fat without harming surrounding tissue. The melted fat may then be drained away. This particular fat-removal operation also helps to firm up the skin around the target area. Until now, patients wishing to firm skin or tighten muscles had to undergo a more intensive (and expensive) operation, usually a Tummy Tuck.
Whichever procedure you are having, it is important to select a trained and experienced surgeon. An experienced surgeon will do more to minimize the risks of complication and give you satisfactory results than any particular technique.
