Types of Liposuction

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Types of Liposuction

Liposuction Techniques

There are several techniques for performing the liposuction procedure. It is important to consider your health condition and whether you have had liposuction in the past when selecting a technique.

Liposuction techniques vary, but the common factor among all of them is the use of a thin cannula connected to a vacuum to suction fat cells from your body. The selection of liposuction techniques should always be made in consultation with your doctor.

Tumescent Liposuction Technique:

Tumescent Liposuction is the most commonly used classic liposuction procedure. A special sterile solution that helps in fat removal, an anesthetic (lidocaine) to relieve pain, and a medication (epinephrine) that causes blood vessels in the treated area to constrict are injected. This fluid mixture causes the injected area to swell and firm up. Then, small (1-3 mm) incisions are made in your skin, and a thin tube called a cannula is inserted beneath the skin. The cannula is connected to a vacuum device that suctions fat cells and the injected fluids from your body.

Vaser Liposuction Technique:

Vaser Liposuction is essentially the same as traditional liposuction, but during the procedure, the surgeon places a metal cannula that emits ultrasonic waves beneath your skin. The ultrasonic waves break down fat cells, allowing for more uniform fat removal. Vaser Liposuction is the most effective next-generation liposuction technique, which also enhances skin contours and reduces skin damage. The ultrasonic waves help the skin regain its firmness after fat removal.

Laser-Assisted Liposuction (LAL):

This technique is similar to Vaser, but instead of ultrasonic waves, laser light is used. High-intensity laser light is used to break down fat cells for removal. During LAL, the surgeon places a laser fiber through a small incision in the skin and suctions the fat deposits. The fat cells are then removed through a cannula.

Lipokit-Assisted Liposuction:

In this technique, tumescent fluid is injected, and the area is allowed to rest for 10-15 minutes. The Lipokit device vibrates, breaking down the fat into a more homogeneous state, and it has been noted to be effective for cellulite as well. It is recommended that no more than 4-5 liters of fat be removed using this technique.