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Liposuction is now easier and safer than ever before,
and, as a result, its popularity has soared. Navigating
the new liposuction options can be a challenge, however.
For information about liposuction procedures, please
refer to this list of frequently asked questions and
then speak with an experienced liposuction surgeon about
your specific case.
What is liposuction?
Liposuction is a surgical procedure designed to remove
pockets of fat in order to contour specific areas of the
body. It is frequently performed to reduce fat in the
hips, thighs, abdomen, upper arms, and other areas. In a
typical liposuction procedure, up to 10 pounds of fat is
removed using suction and a small tube called a cannula.
A small incision will be made near the area to be
treated to allow the cannula to fit through the skin.
Using suction, the surgeon will remove unwanted fat
cells. The incision will then be closed, and the patient
can enjoy their improved body shape.
What are the different liposuction techniques?
The four most commonly used liposuction techniques today
are tumescent liposuction, ultrasound assisted
liposuction, and power assisted liposuction.
Tumescent liposuction utilizes a large amount of saline
fluid to loosen fatty tissue from muscle for easier fat
removal. Ultrasound assisted liposuction, also known as
ultrasonic liposuction or UAL, uses ultrasonic energy to
break up fat prior to removal. Liposuction is a
type of ultrasound assisted liposuction in which grooved
probes and a specialized cannula are used. Power
assisted liposuction is a type of tumescent liposuction
which involves a vibrating cannula. This powered cannula
breaks up fat quickly for easier suction.
What is tumescent liposuction?
Tumescent liposuction involves the injection of large
amounts of fluid into the area to be treated. It allows
for easier removal of the fat and reduces blood loss.
Super-wet liposuction is similar to tumescent
liposuction, but with less fluid injected into the
treatment area. The saline fluid separates fat from
muscle, making it easier for the liposuction surgeon to
remove fat. This procedure takes longer than basic
liposuction, also known as suction assisted liposuction,
because the saline fluid must percolate before fat
removal can begin.
What is ultrasonic assisted liposuction (UAL)?
Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL) involves the use
of a special cannula which emits ultrasonic energy. The
energy breaks up the fat and liquefies it, making
removal easier. Fat is then suctioned out using
traditional liposuction techniques. Ultrasonic assisted
liposuction is particularly useful in treating areas
like the upper back and male breast, where fiber makes
fat dense and difficult to remove. |
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