Cosmetic Surgery Daily
Liposuction Techniques For Safer Surgery And Faster Recovery
Posted Monday, March 23, 2009
Over the years liposuction has evolved, becoming increasingly safer with faster recovery times, better results, and less risks. There are a variety of different liposuction techniques available, each with their own benefits and risks.
This cosmetic procedure is used to sculpt the body and smooth out unwanted fat pockets that disturb natural contours. Although sometimes considered a weight-loss method, little fat is removed during the surgery. So it is only recommended for those patients who have maintained a steady or ideal weight over an extended period of time.
The first technique used for liposuction, often referred to as "dry", could cause excessive trauma to the body, involved lengthy recovery periods, and the results were often unsatisfying. During the procedure a small incision was created and a hollow tube called a cannula was inserted into the body. The cannula is attached to a vacuum device that provides the suction needed to extract the fat.
Often the cannula would tear into tissue or damage other nearby areas unrelated to the procedure. There would be much bruising and swelling afterward that lasted for an extended period of time. Many patients experienced uneven healing and were even left with displeasing deformities such as rippling below the skin.
Today plastic surgeons have created much safer and more successful techniques. Although each has a preference or specialty, it is important to consult with a qualified surgeon and discuss possible methods or approaches for your individual goals. Here is an overview of some of the current liposuction techniques being used today.
Wet and Super Wet
These two similar techniques are the exact opposite of the original "dry" method. Before inserting the cannula, saline combined with a blood vessel constrictor is injected into the area. The fluid helps loosen up cells, allowing the surgeon to move through the area more freely with less risk of damaging nerves or surrounding cells. Sometimes excessive bleeding can be a risk (specifically during the wet technique).
Ultrasonic Assisted Liposuction (UAL)
This stands for Ultrasonic Assisted Liposuction. The area is first treated with ultrasonic waves that heat, shake, and subsequently breaks up the fat into a more liquid state to allow for easier removal. This method is especially successful in treating areas prone to more fibrous fat deposits. Less bleeding has been reported, but there is the rare risk of burns to the skin.
Tumescent Liposuction
The biggest benefit of this method is that little blood will be removed during the procedure. A large amount of saline, lidocaine, and epinephrine are injected into the body. This combination makes the fatty areas firmer before they are suctioned out by the cannula.
Power Assisted Liposuction (PAL)
This technique is also known as Power Assisted Liposuction. It is similar to the dry technique, except that a vibrating cannula is used to help loosen the fat and decrease bruising and swelling. It is also particularly useful when treating fibrous areas of the boy such as the lower back and areas with scar tissue. There are many other liposuction techniques and variations, so it is important to discuss the procedure in detail with your plastic surgeon before undergoing the procedure.
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