Two basic types are used in liposuction - the Tumescent technique and Ultrasonic liposuction. On the whole, they have several similarities but are different in some important points. Both types of liposuction consist of similar surgical elements, and if you use ultrasound liposuction, you have to include tumescent as well.

Ultrasonic Liposuction

Ultrasonic assisted liposuction (UAL) is a two-step technique that uses the energy from sound waves to liquefy fat deposits before they are suctioned. Some surgeons may advise ultrasonic liposuction for large volume extractions, especially in tough areas such as the back, flanks and hips.

External ultrasonic energy can be applied and is recommended by some surgeons before or after the fat is removed by regular liposuction. Ultrasonic liposuction must ordinarily be combined with traditional liposuction when deep and surface fat is being removed.

With ultrasonic liposuction it is possible to remove fat from difficult areas such as the upper abdomen, flanks, hip and back. Ultrasonic liposuction is not a replacement for traditional liposuction but it is an addition. The results of ultrasonic liposuction are the same as traditional liposuction.

Tumescent Liposuction

One of the most significant improvements in liposuction in recent years has been the use of tumescent anesthesia, introduced by dermatologist Dr. Tumescent. Tumescent liposuction is now the most common form of liposuction.

The technique of tumescent liposuction has become especially popular, in part because of its purported safety. And now, tumescent technique has improved almost every aspect of liposuction. In fact, even if ultrasound is used, it will be followed by tumescent liposuction.

As judged by current world-wide experience, tumescent liposuction is very safe. Since its incetion, iposuction performed with the tumescent technique has had an excellent safety profile. Complications of liposuction performed with a pure tumescent technique have been minimal.

Much less bleeding occurs as a result of tumescent liposuction. Other situations exist that may benefit from tumescent liposuction.

These two types of liposuction have several derivative types.

With the further development of higher technologies we are surely to be encountered with new and modern types of liposuction in the years to come.

Suction-Assisted Liposuction: This is the combinative usage of tiny cannula inserted into the fat area by small incisions. A pressure is exercised over the place in order to drag the fat out.

Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction. From the top of the cannula are emitted ultrasound waves that liquefy the fat before sucking it out.

External Ultrasound-assisted Liposuction. This type of liposuction uses ultrasound waves that carry out the procedure by changing the structure of the fat cells. Then a tumescent fluid is injected to transmit the external waves and the fat is taken out.

Power-assisted Liposuction is a type of liposuction that takes the fat out by producing gentle pushes into and out of the skin. The tip of a cannula is the best instrument for doing this. The fat is gradually pulled out after several attempts.

VASER-assisted Liposuction: the last type of liposuction is the most high-tech developed. It uses constant stream of ultrasonic energy being inflicted on the fat area. The fat sells are broken up by the ultrasound waves pressure and then taken out by suction.

By Robbie Darmona & Jon Leger

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