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Liposuction
Liposuction is consistently among the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures as it is the process of removing fatty deposits from underneath the skin, which can be performed on many facial and body areas, both males and females, and on patients ranging from their late teens to 60-plus. A good candidate for liposuction is someone who has a troublesome area of fat that he/she has not been unable to get rid of through diet and exercise. All candidates should realize that liposuction is not solution for obesity, and a patient should be at a steady weight for 6-12 months before undergoing this procedure. There are several different techniques.
Traditional Liposuction - This technique has been around since the 1970’s, and continues to be the most commonly used as it involves a thin, hollow metal rod with suction capability. While traditional liposuction may involve more blood loss, most ABPS surgeons have extensive experience with this technique, and more experience equates to better results. There is not a lot of high-tech equipment involved so it often costs less than other forms.
Ultrasonic Liposuction – Ultrasonic liposuction was first introduced in the United States in the 1990’s and uses the suctioning of traditional liposuction along with high frequency waves to lessen blood loss. Tumescent fluid is injected into the fat and ultrasonic waves are used to liquefy the fat so that suctioning is gentler on the surrounding tissues. While this method is less abrasive than traditional liposuction, it can be more expensive because the process takes more time. There is also an increased chance of burning near the skin due to the ultrasound and the entry incisions are larger.
External Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction – This is newest method of liposuction, having been available since the late 1990’s. This process offers less blood loss, swelling and discomfort and may possibly offer a decreased risk of burns and painful postoperative recovery time. However, some doctors fear that it has not been around long enough to be able to weigh the long term effects
With any technique, you can expect to be down for about one to two weeks, and refrain from strenuous activity for about a month after liposuction. Bruising and swelling can last anywhere from one month to six months. Each area of liposuction treatment generally costs several thousand dollars, but as the number of treatment areas increase, the costs associated with each additional area come down. All techniques have their risks and benefits so it’s important to trust your surgeon’s method. If you trust your doctor then you should trust whatever method he feels most comfortable with to achieve the results specific to your body. For more information, please contact an Advisor at MCSA.
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