Before undergoing liposuction, the surgeon may circle and line the areas of the body to be treated. They may also take photos to compare before and after images.
The way liposuction is performed depends on the specific technique used. The surgeon determines the most suitable method based on the treatment goals, the area of the body being treated, and whether you have had liposuction procedures before.
Tumorous liposuction: This is the most common type of liposuction. The surgeon injects a sterile solution into the treatment area. This solution consists of a mixture of saline solution, which helps break down fat; a local anesthetic (lidocaine) to relieve pain; and an antipyretic (epinephrine), which constricts blood vessels. This fluid mixture causes the treated area to swell and firm.
The surgeon then makes small incisions in the skin and inserts a thin tube (cannula) under the skin. This cannula is connected to a vacuum device that suctions fat and fluids from the body. The fluids may be replaced through an intravenous line.
Ultrasound-assisted liposuction: This is a type of liposuction where the skin is swollen and the area is engorged with ultrasound. This type of liposuction is sometimes used in conjunction with traditional liposuction. During ultrasound-assisted liposuction, the surgeon inserts a metal probe that emits ultrasound energy under the skin. This energy ruptures the walls of fat cells, breaking down the fat for easier removal. A newer generation of ultrasound-assisted liposuction is called VASER-assisted liposuction, which uses a device that can improve skin contouring and reduce the risk of injury.
Laser-assisted liposuction. This technique uses high-intensity laser light to break down and remove fat. During laser-assisted liposuction, the surgeon inserts a laser fiber through a small incision into the skin and emulsifies the fat deposits. The fat is then removed through a cannula.
Power-assisted liposuction. In this type of liposuction, a cannula is used that moves rapidly back and forth. This vibration allows the surgeon to remove stubborn fat more easily and quickly. In some cases, power-assisted liposuction may cause less pain and swelling and may allow the surgeon to remove fat more precisely. The surgeon may resort to using this technique if there are large amounts of fat that need to be removed, or if you have previously undergone liposuction.
