What is assisted liposuction?

Unlike traditional liposuction, assisted liposuction helps shape one’s body in those areas that cannot be targeted using controlled diet and exercise. These regions include saddlebags or protruding belly. The technique is readily being used to minimize fullness in abdomen, arms, hips, thighs, waist, and other regions of the body.

In case of traditional liposuction, anesthesia is first given to patients. A hollow tube attached to a vacuum is then inserted using a small opening into the area where excess fats are deposited. The tube is then moved around to disintegrate the fat and then they are sucked out of the body.

On the other hand, assisted liposuction uses advanced technology where medical laser beams are used to liquefy the fat, which is then sucked out of the body. Ultrasound assisted liposuction comprises of a cannula that vibrates quickly and gives off ultrasound energy. When the cannula is passed through the fat cells, the energy emitting from it, liquefies the fat cells, which are then sucked out of the body. The ultrasound can be run either above or below the skin surface.

Laser or ultrasound liposuction offers some advantages over traditional liposuction such as the use of sedation rather than general anesthesia. Less trauma and smoother skin are the results of this technology. However, it should be kept in mind that this is a new technology and only a few studies have proved the result than traditional liposuction. It is therefore, important to discuss the advantages and disadvantage of this new technology with the doctor.

There are a few common problems linked with laser assisted liposuction such as skin burns, and infection, and bruising to name only a few. Patients going through laser liposuction experience sore and a little swollen for a few days. The doctor often prescribes pain killer medications for the same. During recovery phase, the skin begins to tighten, as the new layers of skin form.

Cost of laser assisted or ultrasound assisted liposuction may vary depending on the qualification and expertise of the surgeon, the type of procedure used, time and effort required and the geographic location of the clinic. In general, the cost includes surgeon’s fee, surgical facility costs, anesthesia fees, and medications cost. It is always advised to ask the surgeon about the total cost of the procedure.