Many people are surprised to discover there are several different types of liposuction available these days. At one time, there was only one form of liposuction. Now, though, technological developments have led to many kinds of machines that surgeons use to perform lipo surgeries. Yet, while there are many machines to choose from, not all produce equally good results. Here is information about some of the machine types that surgeons are currently using during the liposuction process.
Ultrasound-Assisted
Ultrasound-assisted liposuction is a relatively new lipo treatment. It involves using ultrasonic energy to carry out selective tissue lipolysis. It is a two-stage process that uses ultrasonic probes before suctioning out the fat. This type of lipo is best for fibrotic areas of fat. However, it comes with some significant downsides, including larger incisions and the risk of thermal burns.
Laser-Assisted
Laser-assisted liposuction uses a laser inside a cannula to break down fat ready for suctioning out. This type of liposuction has limited effectiveness, especially over large areas of the body. It also introduces the risk of potential thermal injuries.
Also read – Is There A Difference Between Lipedema Liposuction and Cosmetic Liposuction?
Non-Invasive Techniques
Recently, non-invasive technologies have become more popular. Some people are keen to reduce their body fat without having any downtime. Non-invasive treatments are supposed to cause less skin trauma and help tighten the skin without excessive downtime. The results, however, are nowhere near as effective as liposuction. One popular non-invasive option is CoolSculpting. This treatment can help to decrease small areas of fat, for example, underneath the chin. It isn’t suitable for use on large areas of the body, though. Also, the results are not especially impressive.
Traditional
Traditional liposuction first appeared in clinics during the 1970s and 1980s. Some surgeons still use these techniques, using a blunt-tipped cannula and suction to perform the procedure. Although traditional lipo is effective, it isn’t as precise as other more modern methods. It is primarily for de-bulking areas of excess fat rather than for achieving a sculpted look.
Power Assisted/Tumescent
Power-assisted/tumescent liposuction is the most popular form of lipo today. It is also the most effective. It uses a narrow cannula that vibrates rapidly to break up the fibrous fat. Fluid is also injected into the area that the surgeon is treating. That causes it to swell, loosening the fat cells and minimizing damage to the soft tissues. Quicker and easier than traditional lipo, power-assisted/tumescent liposuction is also gentler and less traumatic for the body. It is also suitable for treating both large and small areas from the chin to the entire leg.
Which Kind Of Liposuction Is Right For Me?
The most important thing when planning to undergo any kind of liposuction is the skill of the surgeon. Choosing a talented surgeon with plenty of experience is crucial if you want to achieve the best possible outcome. Although there are many different types of liposuction available today, experts recognize tumescent as the most effective. Dr. Su at ArtLipo is a pioneer of cutting-edge liposuction techniques, so get in touch to arrange a consultation.
Dr. Thomas Su, is the owner and cosmetic surgeon of Artistic Lipo. He has led our full-time clinic specializing in awake-only liposuction since 2007. Dr. Su began his medical career in internal medicine, practicing that until 2005, when he began to provide a full spectrum of non-invasive cosmetic procedures.
