There are several different types of liposuction. Diet, exercise and a healthy lifestyle are the best ways to get rid of body fat. However, certain areas of the body that hold on to fat more, and it can be difficult to remove stubborn body fat. Liposuction is one solution to help solve this issue.
Suction Assisted Liposuction
Suction assisted liposuction is the oldest type of liposuction, as well as the least expensive. With this type, small incisions are made over the desired area. A hollow needle, called a cannula is inserted through these incisions to suction out the fat cells. Most people are able to return to their normal duties, after a few days after suction assisted liposuction. The recovery time ranges one to three months. It can take three to six months to see the final shape of your body after surgery. This can be used on the buttocks, thighs, legs, back, arms, and abdomen. This type of liposuction is typically not used on the face. Compared to other types of liposuction, dimpling and other imperfections are more common after surgery. As well, bleeding and bruising are more common during the healing process than with other types of liposuction. As well, it can be more difficult to control the removal and the relocation of fat during the surgical and healing process.
Tumescent Technique Liposuction
Most types of liposuction use the tumescent technique. This technique decreases blood loss during liposuction. With this type of liposuction lidocaine, an anesthetic, and epinephrine, which helps constrict the blood vessels and reduce bleeding, are injected into the area to make the fat cells swell. This in turn makes the fat easier to identify and to remove. A cannula is then used to suction out the desired fat cells. It can take three to six months for the body to settle and the final shape and results to be visible. This type of liposuction can be used on most parts of the body and the face.
Power Assisted Liposuction
With this type of liposuction, the cannula turns or vibrates while suctioning the fat. There are various types of power assisted liposuction. Areas such as the back which has fibrous tissue is an example of an area that responds well to power assisted liposuction (PAL). PAL can be used on all areas of the body.
Ultrasound Assisted Liposuction
Another type of liposuction is ultrasound assisted liposuction. This type uses high frequency sound waves to create high amounts of energy. This in turn helps dissolve the fat cells, and makes them easier to remove during the procedure. With this type of liposuction, a larger amount of fat can be safely removed and less bruising and bleeding are common with this procedure. With the newer machines, blistering and burning from the energy rays are uncommon. Any numbness that occurs is temporary.
This is commonly used for areas that have more fibrous fat, which is more difficult to get rid of with traditional suction based liposuctions. For example, around the back and the side of the thighs, as well as around the chest in men. The heat causes better skin shrinkage and tightening as compared to traditional liposuction
Laser Assisted Types of Liposuction
Another type of liposuction is laser assisted liposuction. This type uses a laser to help break down the fat cells. An anesthetic as well as epinephrine are injected into several small incisions. Then, the cannula is inserted along with the laser probe. This laser helps break down fat to a liquid oil, which can be removed quite easily through the cannula. Since the fat cells are liquefied, a much smaller cannula is needed for this type of procedure. Because of this, the incisions that are made are much smaller and will heal quicker and leave minimal scarring. This can be used anywhere on the body as well as the face, such as the chin and cheeks. Because of the laser, this procedure can also help tighten the skin after liposuction. Some of the disadvantages of this type include a higher risk of burns because of lasers.
Smartlipo (Smart Liposuction)
Another type of liposuction is Smartlipo. This type of liposuction uses lasers as well, but differs slightly from laser assisted liposuction. Smart lipo uses two laser frequencies. One frequency is used to liquefy fat, and the other is used to tighten skin in the area and stimulate collagen production. There are increased risks of burns and blistering with Smartlipo over other types of liposuction. To minimize risks and help you achieve the best results, make sure to visit a Board Certified plastic surgeon.
To decide which type of liposuction is best for you, it is best to consider which areas of the body you would like to have sculpted, as well as how much fat you would like to remove. Recovery time varies slightly depending on the type of liposuction. Certain types of liposuction are less expensive than others. You should also consider whether you would like skin tightening in conjunction with your liposuction, as this is a possibility with liposuction that uses lasers. Make sure you discuss this with your plastic surgeon during your consultation.
If you are interested in liposuction, contact our office to set up a personalized consultation with Dr. Michelle. Hardaway call our office today.
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