Types of Liposuction Procedures
Liposuction is a surgical body-contouring procedure designed to remove localized fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise. It is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgeries worldwide, targeting areas such as the abdomen, thighs, arms, buttocks, chin, and neck. The primary goal of liposuction is not weight loss but rather the reshaping and refinement of body proportions. Over the years, various techniques have been developed to enhance safety, precision, and recovery time, ranging from traditional suction-assisted methods to advanced approaches utilizing ultrasound or laser energy. Each technique offers unique advantages, depending on the patient's needs and the area being treated. Different procedures are:
Tumescent liposuction (fluid injection) is the most common type of liposuction. It involves injecting a large amount of medicated solution into the areas before the fat is removed. Super-wet technique is similar to tumescent liposuction. The difference is that not as much fluid is used during the surgery. The amount of fluid injected is equal to the amount of fat to be removed.
Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL) uses ultrasonic vibrations to turn fat cells into liquid. Afterward, the cells can be vacuumed out. UAL can be done in two ways, external (above the surface of the skin with a special emitter) or internal (below the surface of the skin with a small, heated cannula). This technique may help remove fat from dense, fiber-filled (fibrous) areas of the body such as the upper back or enlarged male breast tissue.
Laser-assisted liposuction (LAL) uses laser energy to liquefy fat cells. After the cells are liquefied, they can be vacuumed out or allowed to drain out through small tubes. Because the tube (cannula) used during LAL is smaller than the ones used in traditional liposuction, surgeons prefer using LAL for confined areas. These areas include the chin, jowls, and face.
