Liposuction

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

TUMESCENT “SUPER-WET”

Tumescent liposuction, known as the “Super-Wet” approach, is a suction-assisted (SAL) technique that uses a solution and power-aided motor to help remove stubborn fat. The surgeon injects the solution, made of saline, lidocaine, and epinephrine (to control bleeding) into the problem areas. The surgeon then inserts the cannula attached to the motor to remove fat cells from the body at a controlled speed. The motor helps surgeons remove anywhere from several ounces to a few pounds of fat.

ULTRASOUND-ASSISTED (UAL)

Another surgical technique commonly used is the ultrasound-assisted (UAL), or ultrasonic, approach. Surgeons perform this dual process on denser areas of fat, such as in the thighs and stomach. During this technique, ultrasound waves loosen and melt the fat into a liquid. Surgeons then use the cannula to extract the solution. This surgical method is more popular among men wanting more defined and contoured muscles.

LASER-ASSISTED (LAL)

Laser-assisted liposuction (LAL) uses laser technology on specified areas of fat to loosen and liquefy the fat for removal. LAL liposuction includes brands such as SmartLipo, SlimLipo, Lipolite Laser Liposculpture, LipoLite, and ProLipo PLUS.

DURING/AFTER SURGERY

Liposuction is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia at a hospital or surgery center. The procedure lasts about 30 minutes for each body part. It can be a stand-alone surgery or combined with other procedures. However, the surgeon may suggest performing the surgery over a period of time for the safety of the patient. After surgery, patients are required to wear a compression garment to help the body adjust to its new shape. Bruising and swelling will subside within one week, but patients will not see final results for several months. Liposuction does leave a small scar, but it fades over time.