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The 3 Types of Liposuction You Need to Know

Liposuction is the most well-known fat reduction procedure. The main technique used for liposuction is the removal of fat with a vacuum system; fat is literally suctioned out of the body. With this technique, patients can smooth out the figure to enhance the contours of the body. Therefore, liposuction is often referred to as a “body contouring” procedure. However, many patients aren’t aware that there is more than one type of liposuction. Below, we’ll explain the 3 types of liposuction you need to know about.

1.   Tumescent Liposuction

Also known as fluid injection liposuction, tumescent liposuction is the most commonly used liposuction technique. This technique involves the injection of fluid into the treatment areas before fat is removed. The fluid is a combination of lidocaine, epinephrine and IV saltwater solution. Lidocaine is a local numbing agent that helps minimize discomfort. Epinephrine constricts the blood vessels to minimize bleeding. The saltwater solution assists in fat removal.

There is also a technique known as “super wet” liposuction, which falls under the tumescent liposuction category. This technique simply uses more tumescent fluid during the liposuction process, maximizing the benefits of the tumescent technique.

2.   Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction (UAL)

Ultrasound-assisted liposuction, also known as UAL, uses ultrasonic vibrations to liquefy fat cells that would otherwise be difficult to remove. Afterward, the liquefied fat can easily be vacuumed out. Depending on the area of the body being targeted, you may have an external or internal ultrasound. Different tools will be used for each. However, these procedures take significantly longer than tumescent techniques because they require additional instruments, and in some cases, additional incisions. Combining this technique with the tumescent technique can help remove more fat from certain locations.

3.   Laser-Assisted Liposuction (LAL)

Laser-assisted liposuction, or LAL, is similar to UAL. The key difference is that LAL uses laser technology to liquefy fat cells instead of ultrasound technology. The benefits are the same, as fat cells liquefied with laser energy are easily removed. However, LAL offers a few additional benefits that are unique to this technique.

First, LAL is the preferred technique for smaller treatment areas. This is because the fat removal tool used for LAL, called the cannula, is smaller than cannulas used for other techniques. It is more appropriate for areas like the neck, chin and face, as smaller incisions are required.

Second, the laser energy used for the LAL technique has skin-tightening benefits. Laser energy stimulates collagen and elastin production in the skin, which is used to heal and strengthen skin tissue. As a result, patients may experience skin tightening benefits after LAL that reduce sagging skin and improve overall results.

Which Liposuction Technique is Best for Me?

The three liposuction techniques above offer key differences and advantages. Patients may opt for one treatment over another depending on their treatment goals and desired treatment areas. If you’d like to determine which type of liposuction is best for you, contact us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Philpott of The Body Sculpting Center.



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