Liposuction Techniques
In the past, liposuction was performed with a high-powered vacuum and small metal cannulas. The small metal cannulas were inserted into fatty areas of the body and the fat was literally sucked out of the body with the vacuum. Over the years, the instruments used for a liposuction procedure were reduced in size. This meant that patients would have less noticeable scars and a faster healing time. Newer technology makes the removal of fat from the body during a liposuction procedure much easier.
Currently, liposuction is one of the most requested cosmetic surgery procedures in the United States. With recent advances in liposuction, the surgery is likely to remain popular for years to come.
Ultrasonic liposuction
Ultrasound Assisted Liposuction is a technique that uses ultrasound waves to melt or emulsify the fat that is to be removed from the body. Unfortunately, there can be a higher rate of complications with the ultrasonic liposuction method.
Laser liposuction
Another advance is laser liposuction or SmartLipo. A tiny cannula is placed under the skin to melt the fat and tighten the skin with the laser. The fat can then be removed with gentle suction.
Tumescent liposuction
Tumescent liposuction saturates the targeted fat with a special solution, containing the anesthetic lidocaine. The tumescent technique is widely used by plastic surgeons because it improves patient comfort and allows for easier manipulation of the fatty tissue.
To find out which liposuction approach is best for you, contact Dayton and Cincinnati’s top cosmetic surgeon, Dr Mark Mandell-Brown.