The Main Differences Between Traditional Liposuction and Ultrasound Liposuction
If you are frustrated that diet and exercise are simply not yielding the results you want, it may be time to consider body contouring through the use of liposuction. Liposuction has been a popular procedure for over 30 years, but advances in less invasive medical technology have enabled cosmetic surgeons to provide superior results with fewer complications and side effects. Here are some of the main differences between traditional (or tumescent) liposuction and ultrasound liposuction (UAL) to help you be better informed when you visit your cosmetic surgeon for a consultation.
The most common targeted areas for liposuction are the abdomen, love handles, thighs, and the upper back. Although both tumescent and ultrasound procedures will work effectively on these areas, ultrasound liposuction is a much gentler process so it is more versatile. For this reason UAL is a much better choice for delicate places such as the chin, upper arms, inner thighs, and even the neck.
With traditional liposuction, a cannula is inserted into or near the targeted area. That cannula injects the area with a saline solution and other liquids, and then is used to mechanically break up the fat cells for easier suction. The mechanical action required in traditional liposuction looks rather violent because so much force needs to be used: the result is possible tissue damage and bleeding.
With ultrasound liposuction, an ultrasound attachment on the cannula uses sound waves to literally liquefy the fat cells: no forceful mechanical action required. The liquefied fat combines with the saline solution and is easily extracted by the cannula. The results: less pain, less swelling, and less bruising than with the traditional method.
For more detailed information about the differences between tumescent liposuction and ultrasound liposuction and which one might be right for you, contact a good cosmetic surgeon.