Common techniques used in liposuction surgery today include:
Tumescent Liposuction
Ultrasonic Assisted Liposuction (UAL)
Power Assisted Liposuction (PAL)
Super Wet
Wet
Dry
It is important to consult a qualified and skilled cosmetic surgeon and discuss each of these techniques in detail. Factors such as medical history, general health, desired results and your surgeon's recommendations will determine the best procedure for you.
What does each technique involve?
Tumescent Liposuction - This procedure is considered the safest of all liposuction techniques due to some unique characteristics. These are:
The patient does not need to be under general anesthesia.
Fluid loss is reduced.
An IV is unnecessary in most cases.
The patient experiences little discomfort.
An injection containing lidocaine, epinephrine and saline is used.
A large volume of the solution is injected into the fatty areas to be removed. This solution is a local anesthetic, so the patient is awake during the procedure. The fatty tissue becomes swollen and firm and the amount of blood removed during the procedure is greatly reduced.
Ultrasonic Assisted Liposuction (UAL) - This procedure is performed by using a large amount of tumescent fluid along with a metal probe or paddle. The device delivers ultrasonic energy and heat into the subcutaneous fatty areas, breaking down the fat so it can be removed. The patient is required to be under general anesthesia or heavy IV sedation during this procedure.
This method is becoming less common due to the risk of severe scarring and full-thickness burns.
Power Assisted Liposuction (PAL) - This procedure moves a cannula (small, hollow tube) rapidly in-and-out or in a spinning motion. This constant, quick motion separates and removes the fat cells from targeted areas of the body. The power is supplied by an electric motor or compressed air. The PAL procedure allows for less manual movement by the surgeon for a quicker procedure. This method uses the anesthesia technique employed in tumescent technology.
Super Wet Technique - Requires general anesthesia. This procedure requires the injection of diluted local anesthesia. It uses less than half of the volume that the tumescent technique uses. There is significantly more blood loss that with the tumescent technique, but less than with the wet technique.
Wet Technique - This procedure also requires general anesthesia. A large amount of local anesthesia containing epinephrine is injected into the fatty areas. Excessive blood loss is common with this technique so it is rarely used in today's liposuction procedures.
Dry Technique - This procedure is no longer used for two main reasons. No local anesthetic was injected into the surgery locations. Also, there was more blood loss during this surgery than any other liposuction procedure.
Board certified cosmetic surgeons employ the latest techniques available to them. During your consultation, ask as many questions as possible about your elected procedure. Be sure all of your questions have been answered thoroughly and clearly before making any decisions.
