Types of Liposuction
Not all liposuction is the same, and there are a number of different types depending on how much fluid is injected into the area to be treated. They also differ in terms of the way the fatty tissues are broken down before removal. The one thing that all types have in common is that the fat is then sucked out by a vacuum pump.
The type of procedure most suited to you will depend on how much fat you need removed. Some types also take longer to perform than others.
Here is a brief guide to the types of liposuction (though you should always ask your surgeon for more advice on your specific procedure):
Wet Liposuction
This involves injecting a mixture of salty water, anaesthetic and adrenaline into the area to be treated. This will help to reduce any bleeding and swelling. A cut is then made into the skin, where a small metal tube is inserted. The tube is moved around to break up the fatty tissue, which is then sucked out through the tube. Sometimes more than one cut is needed in larger areas. Dry liposuction is no longer recommended for liposuction, as the fluid is important for helping to loosen the fat cells.
Super-Wet Liposuction
When this kind of liposuction is performed, the amount of water to be injected is equal to the volume of fat to be removed. This is typically used to remove larger amounts of fat tissue, and can take between 1 and three hours, depending on the size of the area to be treated.
Ultrasound-assisted Liposuction (UAL)
Some fat is more dense, for example that on a man, in which case an ultrasound can be used to help break it up before it's removed. This technique is also used where there is a lot of fat to be removed. The procedure makes use of a special cannula, which sends ultrasound vibrations into the area, liquefying the fat. It is then removed using a suction device, low pressure to help reduce any trauma to the surrounding area.
Power-assisted Liposuction (PAL)
Power-assisted liposuction makes use of a specialised cannula with mechanical movements. Controlled movements mean that the procedure will be more comfortable, and there are less risks involved in the procedure.
Tumescent Liposuction
This type of liposuction makes use of a large amount of fluid, up to 3 or 4 times the volume of fat that is going to be sucked out. this larger amount of fluid is what helps to separate the fatty tissue from the muscles, making more space to break up the fat cells. This version of the procedure is longer than the others, taking around four hours, due to the fact that it uses extra fluid. It is usually used to remove smaller amounts of fat.
Water-Assisted Liposuction (WAL)
This is a newer technique, using a beam of water to loosen the tissues of fat. The water is constantly being added and removed through a cannula. This procedure can help to reduce the swelling, and the movements are generally more gentle.
