Ultrasonic liposuction

If you’re a woman, you’re probably familiar with areas of fat on the body that are practically resistant to any form of exercise and fat that is stingy when it comes to letting go. The stomach, thighs, hips, arms, chin, and even more areas in the body can be stuck with unwanted fat cells. It may be embarrassing to carry large amounts of fat in these areas, and the solution to get rid of them lies, when exercise and dieting aren’t enough, in liposuction. There are many different types of liposuction procedures, but ultrasonic liposuction will be focused on in this article.

What is Ultrasonic Liposuction?
Liposuction, in general, is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of areas having visible fat. The specific methods vary, but eventually the fat is removed through a vacuum-like course of action, all in all creating a smoother appearance, and with that, a boost of self-confidence. In ultrasonic liposuction, ultrasonic energy (sound waves) is utilized to break down and liquefy fat cells; this energy is delivered through metal rods or paddles into the body (internally) or over the skin (externally). This process makes the removal of the fat cells much easier and less invasive to the surrounding tissues. If it is done internally, a special tumescent fluid is injected into the fatty area from a cannula, which is a large hollow needle, to be mixed with the “melted” fat and then sucked out with a vacuum through the cannula; the fluid makes it easier to get the fat out of the body. External ultrasonic liposuction, which is rarely used, never pierces the skin and breaks down the fat externally. Commonly treated areas of this method include the hips, stomach, thighs, buttocks, cheeks, and chin.

Who is a Good Candidate?
If you’ve been uncomfortable with or at a loss of what to do with the visible fat on your body, and liposuction is something you’re considering, it can’t hurt to have a consultation with a certified liposuction surgeon. He or she can give you all the information you need to know and answer all of your questions. Together you can decide if ultrasonic liposuction is right for you. Both men and women can have this procedure.

Benefits
The great thing about liposuction, as opposed to dieting, is that the removal of the fat cells is permanent. Our bodies only have a certain amount of fat cells, but our eating and exercising behaviors will determine how full these cells are. With liposuction, the fat cells are removed for good, but it is up to the patient to continue eating healthy and exercising to keep fat stores low.

Side Effects, Risks, and Complications
When undergoing any type of surgery or procedure, there is always a risk of side effects and complications. For ultrasonic liposuction, possible side effects include bruising, swelling, discomfort, numbness, limited mobility, and blood clots due to the heat from the energy. While rare, damage can be done to the peripheral nerves around the site of the procedure. Another possible risk is developing a seroma, which is a sack of clear yellow fluid just beneath the skin; the seroma can be present in the body for weeks. Pain and discomfort is almost always a risk that you just have to take, but the doctor will prescribe pain medications for this. Being stiff and sore is also fairly common. All of these should be discussed by the doctor before the decision to have liposuction is made.

Cost
Of course, depending on the type of liposuction you have, the cost will vary. However, it will most likely fall between $2,500 and $3,000. Insurance does not typically cover liposuction costs.

Last updated on Feb 25th, 2011 and filed under Plastic Surgery. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

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