Ultrasonic Liposuction - Things to Consider

Some areas such as the chin, neck, knees, calves and ankles are particularly hard to treat with traditional liposuction techniques. As such, surgeons have evolved procedures in order to customize fat removal for their patients.

Often paired with tumescent or super-wet liposuction, ultrasonic liposuction utilizes sound waves to break up fat cells in the body. When directed at a particular body location, the ultrasound causes the fat cells in that tissue to emulsify into smaller particles that are more easily removed. Injected fluids help the body maintain a homeostasis while the surgeon uses a cannula to suction out the fat cells. This fluid balance helps the body to recover quicker and provides better overall results.

How Does It Compare To Other Procedures?

Similar to many other forms of liposuction surgery, the steps of this invasive procedure are essentially similar to most cosmetic operations. The surgeon will use anesthesia to put you to sleep or if the area is small, they might simply opt to use local anesthetic and a general sedative to keep you comfortable. Small incisions will be made in inconspicuous locations that will be easily hid once they have healed and aspirators or cannulas are inserted into the body cavity. The ultrasound machine is directed at the fatty tissue and liquefies the tissue quickly and efficiently. The surgeon will use small stitches or surgical glue to close the incisions and you will be wheeled to a nearby post-operative area for recovery.

Risks and side effects of ultrasonic liposuction include bruising, swelling, hematoma or seroma formation, infection, negative reaction to anesthesia, burns, blistering, extensive scarring, delayed wound healing, or infection. Mild to moderate pain is normal and should be expected after surgery. However, any increase in redness, inflammation or pain should be immediately reported to your physician as it may be a sign of infection. Infection should be treated immediately with a course of antibiotics to prevent further delays in wound healing or even life-threatening complications.

What Are The Risks Involved?

Compared to other forms of liposuction, ultrasonic liposuction carries a higher risk of scarring and burns. This can be avoided or minimized by choosing a surgeon that is board-certified and has extensive experience and education with this particular technique. Be sure to bring up any questions or concerns you may have with your surgeon. He or she should be able to address your comments and provide before and after photos demonstrating the quality of their work. This is an important surgery and you should not cut corners or sacrifice financial concerns for quality of work and overall outcome.

Because this can be a risky surgery, make sure you are comfortable with your plastic surgeon and his or her experience with ultrasonic liposuction cosmetic surgery.