| There have been several
approaches developed for liposuction over the years. Each technique
has benefits and drawbacks, while some older techniques have lost
favor. The major features that distinguish the various liposuction
techniques are the amount of solution that is injected under the
skin before liposuction the use of any additional devices to assist
routine liposuction.
Super-wet liposuction technique
In the super-wet liposuction technique, a saline solution containing
a local anesthetic and adrenaline is injected into the area to be
treated, which makes the fat deposits easier to break up and extract.
This extra fluid also minimizes trauma to the surrounding tissue,
reducing swelling and post-operative pain. The administration of
adrenaline also decreases bleeding during surgery, further reducing
risks.
Tumescent liposuction technique
The tumescent liposuction technique, in which even larger amounts
of liquid solution are injected, has similar benefits. The tumescent
technique is the only technique that permits liposuction totally
by local anesthesia.
Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL)
A newer method, ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL), uses sound
waves to liquefy the fat after the injection of fluids. UAL also
minimizes trauma, causing less bruising and blood loss. UAL is particularly
useful on fibrous areas of the body, such as the male breast, the
upper abdomen, and the upper back, which are difficult to treat
with traditional techniques.
Dry liposuction
An earlier method of liposuction, called dry liposuction because
no liquefying agent was used, required general anesthesia. This
technique is not in frequent use today.
The technique chosen for your operation will be determined by a
combination of factors, including the precise area to be treated,
the amount of fat to be removed, your surgeon’s training and experience,
and your preferences.
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