Liposuction is one of several cosmetic procedures designed to remove fat deposits and improve a body’s shape. It is not a weight loss method; so the ideal patients are of normal weight. They simply have localized fat deposits that have proven impervious to diet or exercise. We at MacMed Spa Salon & Medical provide both various kinds of liposuction to our patients.
Traditional Liposuction
The traditional form of Liposuction is most commonly performed on the abdomen, hips, thighs, buttocks and face. The patient is given general anesthetic. The doctor will then make an incision and insert a cannula or thin tube into the fat. He will move it back and forth to break up the fat cells that he will then remove with a vacuum pump. Afterward, he may either stitch the incisions closed or leave them open to prevent bruising and swelling. He may also insert a drainage tube to prevent any fluid build-up.
Traditional liposuction can be riskier than other types. On the other hand, since the patient is under general anesthetic larger areas can be treated and more fat removed.
What is Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction?
Also known as UAL, this kind of liposuction is used in places where the fat is denser and harder to remove. It is therefore commonly performed on the upper back, cheeks, chin, neck, ankles, calves, knees and male chest area. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with tumescent liposuction. In the latter case, it is used to “fine tune” a procedure since it is more precise.
A special cannula is used that emits ultrasound waves that break up and liquefy the fat cells. He then vacuums them up with a suction pump. UAL can also tighten skin and is thus sometimes used as an alternative to procedures like tummy tucks or body lifts intended to remove loose or excess skin.
What is Vaser Liposuction?
Vaser liposuction, also called LipoSelection, is a type of UAL. The procedure uses a special cannula and specially grooved probes to remove the fat. The technique can be used in most areas, but is especially useful for delicate parts of the body like the arms, neck, chin or inner thighs.
The treatment provider injects a tumescent liquid, which is a saline solution containing anesthetics, into the treatment area. He then uses the probes to generate ultrasonic energy that breaks down fat cells into a liquid that will be mixed with the tumescent liquid. A cannula is used to remove the mixture. Some of the anesthetic remains in the tissues to help reduce pain.
Vaser liposuction has the advantage of not damaging surrounding tissues. It, therefore, causes less pain and fewer side effects and has a shorter recovery time. While the patient may request general anesthetic, it is not necessary, and the procedure can be performed under a local anesthetic.
If you are interested in liposuction, our team at Mac Med Spa will be able to assist you. Contact us today to book an appointment and get rid of the stubborn fat you want to be removed.