Lipoplasty is basically “fat modeling” – most famously known as liposuction or liposculpture. It may also be known as liposculpture suction lipectomy or suction-assisted fat removal. Lipoplasty can be performed to eliminate fat almost anywhere on the body; but more often on the thighs, buttocks, neck, arms, calves, hips, chin, ankles, waist, and the abdomen – the most often asked-for part of the body that undergoes this procedure. Lipoplasty can flatten the abdomen, trim the hips and thighs, eradicate a double chin or shape the calves and ankles, just to mention a few.
People who seek out this cosmetic procedure usually have stubborn fat cells that, no matter how much exercise they do and diets they stick to, cannot get rid of that unwanted fat on certain parts of their body. Others have lipoplasty because they do not have time to work out and want a more efficient and instant solution.
It is possible to have lipoplasty at almost any age, however best results are acquired if the skin still has enough elasticity to bounce back following the fat removal.
Liposuction advances in techniques:
- Ultrasound-assisted liposuction or Ultrasonic-assisted liposuction (UAL) – Liquefies the fat using ultrasound to burst the fat cells wall, making it easier to remove unwanted fat, particularly in the abdomen, back and sides.
Types of UAL:
- External Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction (External UAL) – This technique uses a high intensity and high frequency external ultrasound before the liposuction procedure which increases the capability in extracting fat. It also reduces the discomfort during and after the procedure.
- Internal Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction (External UAL) – Ultrasonic energy applied using a specialised cannula. It uses the tip of the cannula to liquefy the loosened fat by placing it in the cannula when the ultrasound device is attached.
- Tumescent liposuction – Applies a local anesthetic to numb the area where the tube is to be inserted. “Tumescent” means swollen and firm. First, the skin is marked for the areas where the fat is to be removed. Tumescent liposuction may be used in conjunction with ‘other’ liposuction (ie UAL).
- SmartLipo or Laser Liposuction / Laser-Assisted Liposuction – Uses a minuscule laser that has laser fibre which is inserted to the skin, and a concentrated laserbeam light to melt fat cells. The high energy liquefies the fat cells making it easier to suction. The laser not only helps contour the body, it also stimulates the skin and help produce new collagen for more firm skin, in turn eliminating skin dimpling and preventing unwanted cellulite.
- Suction Assisted Liposuction (SAL) – Uses a tiny cannula that is connected to a pressurised vacuum.
- Power Assisted Liposuction (PAL) – Uses a mechanical cannula to extract fat through a smaller incision.
- Twin Cannula Assisted Liposuction (TCAL) – It is a mechanical method that uses a twin cannula in one. With this, there is no burning, therefore scarring is unlikely to appear.
The benefits of liposuction:
- Non toxic and relatively safe method of fat removal
- Reduction of fatty deposit or improvement in the appearance of cellulite
- Improved health condition through the elimination of unwanted fat in the body
- Improved appearance
- Increased self-esteem
- Sculpting areas of body that even exercise and diet don’t seem to impact
The risks of liposuction:
- Infection
- Burns
- Seroma
- Anesthesia-related problems
- Cardiac arrhythmia
- Embolisms
- Edema
- Nerve compression
The best candidates for liposuction are those who are average or a little above average weight, are in good health, and have specific areas of fat that have not responded well to diet and workouts.
For a detailed description on liposuction, click here.
To avoid as much risk as possible and bring about the best result in liposuction, be sure to choose a Plastic Surgeon who is well versed in all body contouring procedures, including liposuction.