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UltraSonic or UltraSound Liposuction

 

Ultrasound assistance is a technique used in addition to Suction-Assisted Liposuction.  Some surgeons believe that it can improve the patient's outcome.  UAL (Ultrasound Assisted Lipoplasty) uses high frequency energy from an ultrasound to literally rupture fat cells and dislodge them prior to suctioning. 

This technique uses a special cannula that produces ultrasonic energy to liquefy the fat cells.  The fat is then removed with traditional suction techniques.  Ultrasonic Assisted Liposuction is very effective in very fibrous fat which is found commonly in men's flanks, upper back and also enlarged breast area.  This technique requires a larger incision than some of the other liposuction methods and longer operating times.

The procedure can be performed either internal or external:

  • Internal Ultrasound:  The ultrasound device is attached to the tip of the cannula, emitting the energy directly to the fat.

  • External Ultrasound:  A device placed outside the body emits energy through the skin and soft tissue to the fat.  External UAL is commonly used as an adjunct to SAL.

 

 

 

  • VASER Ultrasonic LipoSelection

Vaser Liposuction or LipoSelection uses ultrasonic technology that is specifically tissue selective.   The Vaser ultrasound energy (low frequency ultrasound waves) targets "unwanted fat"  and tighten skin - however, preserves the surrounding tissue including blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue.  This method of liposuction promotes smooth contours and rapid healing.

 

How VASER LipoSelection Procedure is done:

  • Tumescent anesthesia is pumped into the area with a solution that contains Lidocaine - Epinephrine and Saline.

  • A small ultrasound probe is inserted into the area to emulsify the fatty deposits.

  • All of the fat is aspirated and permanently removed from the body.

 

 

 

                      

                                       Images courtesy of VASER Ultrasonic LipoSelection

                                   The fatty layer is infused with tumescent fluid

              

                            

The high frequency vibration of VASER ultrasonic probes causes the fat cells to break apart and emulsify into the infusion fluid.

 

                      

Emulsified fat is easily removed via specially designed VentX Suction Cannula or massage.

 

                            

       While you heal, your skin will retract to give you a smooth, natural-looking result.

             

 

              

 

BENEFITS OF ULTRASOUND ASSISTED LIPOPLASTY

  • UAL beneficial with fibrous or fatty tissue located such as the back, upper abdomen, or male breast region.

  • UAL beneficial in repeat procedures

  • Treating larger areas of fat

  • Commonly used in combination with other surgical body contouring procedures

  • Skin tightening during the process

  • More precision with Ultrasonic Assisted Liposuction versus Tumescent

 

RISKS OF ULTRASOUND ASSISTED LIPOPLASTY

  • UAL creates a large amount of heat - causing greater risks of burns, blistering and scarring

  • Seroma

 

 

 

 

Some plastic surgeons like using the Vaser LipoSelection method with another type of liposuction, such as SmartLipo.  The two systems can compliment each other - providing for  the ultimate in fat melting and skin tightening.

 

 

 

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