There are various types of liposuction procedures on the market
. Traditional liposuction involved the creation of an incision in the patient's desired treatment area, then fat was suction out of the patient's body using a cannula (a small, tube-like fat vacuuming device). Today, the procedure is more advanced, and surgeons can perform various techniques to provide the patient with the best results possible and a shortened recovery period. Below is an overview of some of the most common types of liposuction.
Tumescent Liposuction
The tumescent liposuction procedure involves the use of injections into the treatment area before the fat is suctioned out of the body with the cannula. The injections contain ingredients that numb the treatment area and make fat easier to remove during the procedure.
Ultrasonic Liposuction
The ultrasonic liposuction procedure utilizes the power of ultrasonic waves to break up fat and make it easier to remove from the body. The tip of the cannula lets out the ultrasonic waves resulting in more fat removal and a less painful recovery period.
Laser Liposuction
The laser liposuction procedure is one of the newest liposuction techniques available, and it has received a lot of buzz in the media and among patients. The specially designed cannula that is used to remove fat emits laser light into the body. The laser light liquefies the fat so it can be easily vacuumed out of the body by the plastic surgeon.
Some of the above liposuction procedures can be performed in conjunction with one another. For example, many surgeons use the tumescent technique prior to removing fat with the cannula. If you are interested in undergoing liposuction surgery, talk to a qualified plastic surgeon to find out which technique is right for you. You may also be interested in learning more about non-invasive weight loss techniques such as Thermage and VelaShape.