Comparing the Different Types of Liposuction Offered By Dr. Shapiro
Liposuction has come a long way in the past decade. Now there are multiple liposuction types and techniques available to patients, three of which are currently offered by Shapiro Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. They are traditional liposuction, ultrasonic liposuction (also known as VASER Hi-Def liposuction), and laser liposuction. To help you understand the different types, we offer a brief description of how each technique works.
Traditional Liposuction
This type has been used in plastic surgery for many years, though it has become more refined since its inception. The procedure can be used to target superficial or subcutaneous fat, which is hiding under the skin tissues. It starts with small incisions at the area to be treated in an inconspicuous location. For example, if liposuction is going to be used on the arms, the incisions may be hidden on the underside of the arm or in the armpit. Once the incisions are made, the surgeon will use small blunt tubes known as cannulas to break up the fat layers into small pieces. This is done by moving the cannulas very carefully around in the subcutaneous layer of soft tissue so that only the fat cells are broken up. Once the fat has been dislodged, a hollow cannula attached to a vacuum is used to remove the fat from under the skin. After all the necessary fat has been removed, the surgeon closes up the incisions.
Ultrasonic Liposuction
Similar to traditional liposuction, this technique also involves removing fat using hollow cannulas that are inserted through the incisions. The difference is that instead of using manual force to break up the fatty deposits, the surgeon uses ultrasound energy to literally melt the fat. This is done with a special instrument that targets only the fat cells without damaging any of the other connective tissue or nerves. This technique is usually more effective than traditional liposuction and has significantly less bruising and swelling. There is also a shorter recovery period with this technique.
Laser Liposuction
This technique has elements similar to traditional and ultrasonic liposuction. Cannulas are still used to break up the fatty deposits, but instead of used manual force or ultrasound energy, heat waves from a laser are directed from the end of the cannula tubes to melt the fat. The heat waves aren’t strong enough to burn you or cause damage to the other parts of your body; they’re just strong enough to target the fat cells. The laser also emits a red light at the end of the cannula tube, making it easy for the surgeon to visually tracking it through the skin. This treatment is very effective at removing stubborn fat, though not as effective as ultrasonic liposuction and may leave you with some irregularities in your skin surface.
Liposuction from Dr. Shapiro
All three liposuction techniques are offered at Shapiro Aesthetic Plastic Surgery in Scottsdale, AZ. Dr. Shapiro typically prefers using the ultrasonic technique, as it offers better all-around results with very minimal damage to the patient. The technique also causes the skin to retract back to what it was before the fatty deposits were present, which keeps the skin looking better contoured and toned. Dr. Shapiro is also a specialist in this technique and the use of ultrasound energy to remove fat.
Ultimately, the type of liposuction used for each patient varies. Dr. Shapiro will conduct an assessment of your body and its problem areas before determining the best way to help you get rid of that unwanted fat. To schedule your liposuction consultation, call (480) 471-1700 today.
