Ultrasonic Liposuction

Liposuction, or "liposculpture", as it is sometimes called, is the most popular aesthetic procedure in North America year after year and demand continues to climb.  Liposuction appeals to men and women within a very wide age range and the reason is obvious 

Liposuction permanently removes areas of localized fat that are resistant to diet and exercise.  The chin, neck, cheeks, upper arms, abdomen, back, buttocks, hips, thighs, knees, calves and ankles are all areas of the body that respond well to the Liposuction procedure.

The fat cells that are removed during the Liposuction procedure do not grow back.  If you gain weight after undergoing Liposuction, there will be fewer fat cells in the areas that were treated.  The weight gain will be distributed more evenly, rather than accumulating in the areas that were problematic in the past.

Liposuction surgery provides excellent results for patients battling localized areas of fat, or "trouble spots".  Liposuction is not considered an effective substitute for overall weight loss.

The Procedure
Two different techniques are commonly used to perform the Liposuction procedure:  tumescent and ultrasonic.  Both techniques are available at Barr Plastic Surgery Centre. The tumescent technique refers to the conventional technique of using mechanical force to cut and vacuum out fat cells after a large volume of anaesthetic solution is injected into the areas to be treated.  This method results in a significantly higher incidence of bruising, numbness and potential skin dimpling when compared to Ultrasonic Liposuction.  In addition, the skin does not contract as much post-operatively using the tumescent technique as it does after using the ultrasonic method.

Ultrasonic Liposuction is a relatively new technique.  Dr.Barr has been using this technology for 4 years, since its introduction to Canada. This is a technique in which ultrasonic energy is used to target the fat cells only, leaving the surrounding structures such as blood vessels, nerves and connective tissues undamaged.  During this procedure, ultrasound waves are used to slowly liquefy the fat before gently removing it from the body.  The ultrasound waves are delivered into the fat from the tip of a small probe that is introduced under the skin through tiny incisions. Low suction vacuuming is all that is required to remove the emulsified fat from the treated areas.  The ultrasonic probe stimulates the skin, which ensures optimal skin contraction. As there is much less trauma delivered to the region, there is much less bleeding, bruising and swelling associated with using this method. Because Ultrasonic Liposuction emulsifies fat rather than cutting it, more fat can be removed and there is minimal risk of any contour changes in the skin, which can occur with Tumescent Liposuction.

Quick Facts

Tumescent technique

1. Should not be used on larger areas due to trauma to tissues in the region treated, but satisfactory for     smaller areas
2. High incidence of significant bruising, swelling and numbness.
3. Longer recovery period.
4. Less discomfort during recovery period.
5. No skin contraction.
6. Minimally lower cost of treatment is due to less expensive equipment used.
7. Increased risk of skin contour problems (dimpling).
8. Less fat can be removed.

Ultrasonic technique

1. Can be used on small and large areas.
2. Minimal bruising and swelling.
3. Skin sensation returns very quickly.
4. Excellent skin contraction.
5. Faster recovery and superior long term results.

Post Operative Course
Patients are required to wear a compression garment, which is provided, for 3 to 6 weeks after surgery.  This compression decreases post-operative swelling and bruising and enhances skin tightening.  Patients are usually up and around within a day, return to work and most activities in 3 to 5 days. More strenuous activities should be avoided for 2 to 3 weeks.

Concurrent Procedures
Liposuction is very commonly combined with breast surgery as well as the tummy tuck procedure (Abdominoplasty).