Many clinics that offer liposuction prefer ultrasonic assisted liposuction (UAL), as is the case with the Vaser Lipo clinics, because of its numerous benefits. Basically, it’s a procedure that involves the use of high-pitched sound waves (i.e., ultrasound) in liquefying fat in a specific area of the body. The liquefied fat can then be more easily removed through other means.
Use of Sound Waves
In most cases, it’s a procedure used in conjunction with tumescent liposuction particularly in getting more precise results in body contouring. It is then best applied on hard-to-treat areas like the neck, cheeks, and chin as well as the ankles, calves and knees.
The ultrasonic sound waves melt, so to speak, the stubborn fat deposits in the target areas. These fat deposits are rendered into a liquid state that, when combined with a tumescent fluid, makes it easier for the liquid fat to be removed.
The first step the in UAL is the injection of a tumescent fluid, usually a mix of salt water solution, anesthetic, and epinephrine. The fluid serves several purposes, from preventing fluid loss to expediting fat removal.
The ultrasonic sound waves are created by a generator. These are then transmitted to a cannula, a thin tube, which vacuums out the liquefied fat deposits.
Numerous Benefits
UAL is a popular procedure because of its numerous benefits. First, it can be used in the treatment of areas with denser fat deposits as well as in the removal of larger areas of fat in a single operation.
Second, it can be performed simultaneously with other cosmetic surgery procedures, such as a body lift or a tummy tuck. Both of these procedures are designed to remove excess, baggy, or loose skin in previously fatty areas.
Third, the recovery period can be shorter, usually between a few days and a couple of weeks depending on the treatment area and the amount of fat deposits removed. Each individual responds differently to the procedure, too; you have to discuss what you can and cannot do during your recovery period.
Fourth, it can be used on all areas of the body where traditional liposuction is also applied. But UAL works particularly well on areas requiring more precision, such as the love handles, the midsection, and stomach, as well as on male breast tissue. It can also be applied on areas that have already been subjected to liposuction but require further contouring.
These benefits come with risks, too, so be sure to discuss them with your cosmetic surgeon. There’s a greater risk of blistering, burns and scarring due to the large amount of heat produced during the procedure.