Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery used to remove fat deposits and contour areas like the waist and buttocks. The surgeons at Somerset Plastic Surgery offer various liposuction methods, including tumescent and ultrasound-assisted liposuction. Our team can recommend a technique based on each client’s aesthetic goals, health status, and target areas. Here are four types of liposuction and how they’re performed:
1. Traditional Liposuction
Traditional liposuction helps remove stubborn fat that hasn’t responded to diet and exercise. It typically involves using intravenous sedation or general anesthesia to keep the patient comfortable during the procedure. After anesthesia, the plastic surgeon makes a small incision near the target area and inserts a thin tube called a cannula. The cannula is attached to a high-pressure vacuum and then slowly moved back and forth. This controlled movement allows the surgeon to loosen and suction out the fat deposits. Once the procedure is complete, the surgeon will suture the incisions to begin the healing process.
Our plastic surgeons can use this cosmetic surgery to target the following areas:
- Abdomen
- Waist
- Hips
- Thighs
- Buttocks
- Upper Arms
- Chin
- Cheeks
- Neck
- Knees
Traditional liposuction can take around two to three hours to complete. It may remove large amounts of fat, up to 10 liters in some cases. The results are also permanent as long as the patient maintains a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.
2. Tumescent Liposuction
Tumescent liposuction is a less extensive method of fat removal. It may be performed without general anesthesia by using local anesthesia instead. Before the procedure, the surgeon injects a significant amount of medicated solution into the targeted fat removal areas. This solution combines saline, a local anesthetic such as lidocaine, and a vasoconstrictor like epinephrine. Saline causes the cells to swell and become firm, which may make them easier to remove, while epinephrine reduces bleeding and swelling. Lidocaine helps numb the area to relieve pain during and after the procedure. The injection amount is based on the volume of fat that will be removed and can be up to three times the targeted removal amount.
After injecting the solution, the surgeon inserts a microcannula through a small incision to remove the fat. They suction the targeted areas and apply compression bandages to close the incisions once the procedure is complete. Tumescent liposuction takes approximately three to four hours to perform. It can suit those with a smaller treatment area, removing an average of three to five liters of fat.
3. Super-wet Technique
Similar to tumescent liposuction, the super-wet technique uses medicated fluid injections to help with the procedure, though the amount of fluid is significantly less. For this technique, the plastic surgeon utilizes a ratio of approximately 1:1. If the surgeon plans to remove two liters of fat, they will inject about two liters of the medicated solution before treatment.
The general steps of this method are similar to those for traditional liposuction. Using a cannula inserted through a small incision, the plastic surgeon will break up the fat deposits and then suction them out. This technique can be completed fairly quickly but may also require sedation or general anesthesia. Our plastic surgeons will discuss the available anesthesia options with each patient to make sure they remain comfortable throughout the process.
4. Ultrasound-assisted Liposuction
Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL) uses ultrasound energy to liquefy the fat cells before removal. It may be a more effective method for treating dense or fibrous areas of fat, such as the upper back or the male chest, in cases of enlarged breast tissue. During UAL, the plastic surgeon utilizes a specialized cannula that emits ultrasonic energy to dissolve the targeted fat cells. They then suction out the liquefied fat using a standard cannula. This method provides a precise removal process, making it suitable for smaller target areas like the neck, chin, and ankles or follow-up procedures.
Benefits of Liposuction
Liposuction has been performed for decades and is regarded as a safe and effective method for fat removal when performed by a qualified surgeon. It can alleviate discomfort where fat deposits hinder movement or cause physical irritation. This includes fat reduction in areas like the thighs or back, which can enhance physical mobility and posture. Patients may also find that their clothing fits more comfortably after liposuction. For those seeking more transformative results, liposuction can be combined with other cosmetic surgeries, such as tummy tucks or body lifts. While it’s not a substitute for weight loss, liposuction serves as a suitable complement to a healthy lifestyle.
Schedule Your Cosmetic Surgery Consultation
Liposuction can effectively remove fat deposits in many different parts of the body, including delicate areas like the chin or ankles. It allows for precise contouring, creating a smoother and more proportionate appearance. Our team of cosmetic surgery professionals uses the latest technology to help our patients achieve natural-looking and long-lasting results. Contact Somerset Plastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation and discuss our effective fat removal methods.