Liposuction can be used to remove fat cells from specific areas of the body.
Liposuction, or "lipo" as it is sometimes called, is a medical technique used to eliminate areas of fat from underneath the skin. Liposuction can be targeted toward a specific problem area, such as the hips or arms, and is most effective when combined with traditional weight loss methods, which include diet and exercise.
Tumescent Liposuction
Tumescent liposuction is the most commonly used procedure for reducing fat using minimally invasive surgery. This procedure uses a special anesthetic compound containing lidocaine and epinephrine, which acts primarily as a pain reliever. The medication also works as a vasoconstrictor, shrinking the blood vessels and reducing bleeding.
Once the anesthetic compound has dulled the nerves, a small incision is made and fat cells are suctioned out of the body. Stubborn areas of fat can be specifically targeted by saturating the cells with additional amounts of the anesthetic compound, making them easier to manipulate and remove. Epinephrine helps prevent excessive bleeding from occurring, and the incision area typically heals quickly after surgery.
Ultrasonic Liposuction
Ultrasonic liposuction uses high frequency sound to create vibrations in targeted areas of fat. When this fat vibrates at a high enough rate, it turns into liquid and dissipates. This liquidized fat is then removed using specialized liposuction tools. Ultrasonic liposuction can be used to reach areas including the chin and ankles that are are not well suited for other liposuction types because of their shape.
In addition to liquefying fat, ultrasonic liposuction is also effective at increasing the tightness of baggy skin. This allows two cosmetic benefits to be attained at once, saving time and money for patients. In some cases, ultrasonic liposuction can be combined with other procedures such as tumescent liposuction to remove large amounts of fat quickly.
Smartlipo Liposuction
"Smartlipo" is the trademarked name for a specialized liposuction procedure developed by the medical company Cynosure. This type of liposuction uses laser light delivered through a fiber optic cable to target pockets of fat. A cannula is used to thread the small probe under the skin. When laser light is applied, the fat cells are destroyed.
Compared to other methods of liposuction, Smartlipo is relatively painless and can be completed with minimal bruising and blood loss. Due to local anesthesia, patients receiving Smartlipo are able to remain conscious and alert during the procedure, which can often be completed in an hour or less. Most patients completely recover from Smartlipo within several days.
Power Assisted Liposuction
Power assisted liposuction is similar to traditional tumescent liposuction, but uses special tools to increase the amount of fat collected while decreasing the amount of discomfort. The collection tip of a power assisted liposuction tool vibrates and a very fast rate. These vibrations help break up groups of fat cells.
Because power assisted liposuction is more efficient than standard liposuction, more fat can be removed in less time. The vibrating tool allows doctors to target areas while using less force on the instrument. This means less potential risk for the patient, and fewer side effects such as pain and bruising.
Tags: anesthetic compound, assisted liposuction, liposuction uses, combined with, laser light
