Liposuction alternatives - what are the options?

Simplified view of liposuction will be presented. Liposuction (and all of the "million" variations of it) involves fat removal using thin cannulas attached to a suction power device. This part is virtually the same for all units available. The part that is different is the means by which the fat is "broken" down PRIOR TO THE ASPIRATION (removal of fat).

• Traditional liposuction units use cannulas with holes, with which the surgeon mechanically breaks the fat and aspirates at the same time by moving the cannula back and forth.
• Power-assisted liposuction units use an external power source, which causes movement of the cannula itself, in addition to the movement back and forth by the surgeon.
• Ultrasonic liposuction units deliver ultrasonic energy to break down the fat. Depending on the unit, fat is aspirated concurrently or separately (but during the same surgery) using a suction cannula. VASER is an example of an ultrasonic unit.
• SmartLipo (laser) unit uses light energy (i.e. laser) to break down the fat PRIOR TO THE ASPIRATION. At times, if a small area is addressed, fat aspiration may not be performed, as the body over time will absorb the broken down fat.

So what really is the difference between the various units if they all end up with ASPIRATION AS THEIR FINAL STEP? Basically, the energy source required to break down the fat:

• Mechanical (Surgeon)
• Power Assisted (electrical/gas power + Surgeon)
• Ultrasound
• Light (Laser)

The purported benefits of the latter two are they result in less trauma to the tissues, implying less recovery, less swelling, etc. Furthermore, because energy is also delivered to the undersurface of the skin as it is being delivered to the subcutaneous fat, some skin tightening can be seen. This is more true of SmartLipo (laser) unit.

Several caveats:

1. Obviously, the overall recovery time is very dependent on the magnitude of liposuction performed - irrespective of the unit used. Small volume liposuction requires less recovery than larger volume liposuction.
2. Even with the latest technological advancement, the the outcome is largely dependent on the operator (i.e. the surgeon) and the candidacy of the patient (determined by the surgeon).
3. Excellent results can be seen with ALL UNITS, likewise, less than ideal outcomes can be seen with all units, as the unit is only as good as the operator using it. Some inherent advantages of VASER, SmartLipo units can be potentiated in selected patients IF THE RIGHT PATIENT IS SELECTED.
4. Surgery is surgery. All surgeries have inherent risks and potential complications. Please do not trivialize any surgical procedure, despite what you read and hear. Consult your local professional about the various options, benefits, potential complications and limitations and be fully informed prior to any procedure.

As with many of the less-invasive technologies, SmartLipo is an extremely effective treatment... but when used appropriately. It is not a replacement for traditional liposuction as some physicians would suggest.

For larger contouring procedures involving removal of 3-6 liters of fat, there is no way that this technology can effectively contour as well as VASER LipoSelection in the same amount of time. In fact, many physicians will actually combine the two procedures and use SmartLipo to tighten skin while using VASER to remove the bulk of fat.

What kind of liposuction alternatives do I have?

You must consider how quickly you want results.

• Non-surgical treatments, such as Lipodissolve or mesotherapy can have some benefit. However, they will have nowhere near the potential results of laser liposuction. Using a tiny needle, a mixture of medications is injected into the fat layer to help reduce the volume of the given area. This works OK if treating small areas and no loose skin. There is some swelling and discomfort following each session. This usually requires multiple sessions to be effective. Again, some love the results, some don't.
• Radiofrequency devices and lasers may tighten the skin and show some reduction in volume. . .(Body by Thermage). . .but you still won't see the dramatic improvements you will appreciate with a liposuction procedure.  The new deep tip can help reduce volume and tighten skin. I would choose this if the skin is slightly loose and you don't want any downtime. Generally, only one treatment is needed. Results are variable. Some people note dramatic changes, others struggle to see the difference.

You can sometimes combine procedures, such as SmartLipo with Body by Thermage, for even more noticeable results. That is an area that has yet to be studied in depth. Don't be surprised to see HUGE advancements in the body contouring industry over the next 5 years.

Nothing will compare to the results achieved with liposuction, however I would NOT consider having liposuction performed without a laser technique. There is simply no reason to do it. The results are smoother, the skin is tighter, and there is less downtime using a laser prior to suction than without it. There is absolutely NO question about it.

The 70s and 80s may be cool. . .but not when you're talking about liposuction!