23 Feb The Many Types of Liposuction
If you think there’s just one type of liposuction, think again. The gold standard in fat reduction available at Dr. Shaun Parson Plastic Surgery & Skin Center can include a myriad of types and techniques, which his why it’s so important to only trust the leading plastic surgeon with your body and your results.
Liposuction is the only way to immediately and permanently remove fat from the body. Nothing else comes close. There are procedure that promise to non-invasively “remove” fat by melting or freezing it away, but these procedures require multiple treatments and the results aren’t 100 percent controllable or instant. That’ something only liposuction can do, so let’s take a closer look at the most-requested procedure in the U.S.
You can get liposuction just about anywhere. This procedure uses a vacuum device that removes stubborn fat that just won’t budge with diet or exercise. As you can imagine, the stomach is a popular spot, as are the “saddlebags.” Even though liposuction does remove fat, it isn’t considered a “weight-loss surgery.” Instead, it’s a body sculpting procedure, but one that can be aggressive and highly effective.
Liposuction Approaches
Today’s liposuction can also use various energy-based technologies like lasers, ultrasound, and radiofrequency. These energy technologies maximize the final result compared to using “just” traditional liposuction. However, keep in mind that even with the many modalities available today, liposuction is still a surgery. The type of sedation required might be general, deep, or local depending on the treatment area and amount of fat to be removed.
It’s also important to remember that the skill of the surgeon is just as important as the type of liposuction. Look at before and after photos, and make sure that the surgeon is board certified and accredited. When you do your homework, you’ll be rewarded with the best outcome.
Understanding Liposuction
Sometimes the brand name of the liposuction equipment is used instead of the term “liposuction,” which can be confusing. Consider liposuction modalities as different family members under the umbrella of liposuction. The first “family member” is the suction-assisted, traditional liposuction you’ve probably heard about. Next is the one using ultrasound, which works by separating the fat from the collagen. There are radiofrequency and laser approaches, which work by heating up the fat. Finally, power-assisted liposuction uses a rotating motion. It is not uncommon for a surgeon to use various liposuction tools and techniques in one procedure. As a patient, don’t “shop around” for modalities, but rather consider the experience and proven results of the surgeon. A great surgeon will have the latest technology and recommend the best approach for you.
Traditional liposuction is great for those who have a good skin tone, but struggle with localized fat deposits. A metal tube (cannula) removes the fat, and works very well where tissue is not very fibrous. Ultrasound liposuction is a good approach for larger areas. It’s a two-step treatment that first liquifies fat before it suctions it out. The stomach, back, and hips are good areas for ultrasound-aided liposuction.
Liposuction 101
Lasers work by heating up tissue so that fat is broken down for what some consider an easier removal. There is said to be less bruising and swelling with this technique, though studies have not yet backed this up. With laser lipo, traditional liposuction is still needed to actually remove the fat.
Radiofrequency is a newer approach that liquifies fat that’s to be suctioned from the body. Some say it also tightens loose skin via collagen production, but patients have reported uneven skin—which is why many clinics do not offer it.
Finally, there is power-assisted liposuction. This approach gives the cannula the necessary power to suction fat best. There’s a back and forth movement made during the procedure so less force is required. Some say tissue damage is also minimized with this technique.
Is Lipo for You?
The incisions for liposuction are so tiny they are generally invisible to the naked eye upon healing. Anesthetic is injected along with saline during the surgery to help loosen fat cells and ease the removal process. Skin can be swollen and bruised in the first few days after surgery, but most patients feel good enough to walk around right after the anesthesia wears off. Compression garments are often required to reduce blood clots for a few days post-op.
Interested in learning if lipo is for you? Connect with Dr. Shaun Parson Plastic Surgery & Skin Center and schedule your complimentary liposuction consultation.