Tumescent Liposuction vs. Other Types

The American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery regularly reviews the practices of elective cosmetic plastic surgeons across the country and around the world. In an attempt to better understand the way technology evolves to meet the demand of the patients, many studies attempt to analyze what tools or techniques are more popular than others. This can be important information to the businesses that make millions of dollars in the research and development of new tools and technologies to help keep patients looking younger and more beautiful. 

Liposuction is no different. In a regular review of liposuction techniques and tools, The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery found that the majority of elective cosmetic plastic surgeons preferred and utilized the traditional type of fat removal that is commonly referred to as “tumescent.” In fact, the elective cosmetic plastic surgeons used this type of procedure so often, it was more popular than all other types of liposuction combined. 

There are a variety of different techniques and the type that your elective cosmetic plastic surgeon suggests for your particular situation may be different than what he or she would recommend for someone else. Each person is unique and depending on the amount of fat to be removed and the particular location that it is being removed from, some techniques are more appropriate than others. Be sure to discuss your expectations with your elective cosmetic plastic surgeon. The main factor that precipitates dissatisfaction after leaving the operating room is unhealthy or incorrect expectations before performing the procedure. It is important to remember that this is not a permanent method of fat removal and the fat can come back if you continue to make poor decisions about your health and lifestyle. 

Laser-assisted fat removal is not very common, but is popular for small areas of fat removal with thin skin areas. A location that might be a good candidate for laser-assisted fat removal may be underneath the chin or in the jowls. Ultrasound-assisted fat removal is a little more popular. Ultrasound-assisted fat removal can be used effectively in men and women that require revision surgery. It is also used in men that want to reduce breast tissue fat and eliminate gynecomastia. Lastly, if you are a female patient that is having a lot of fat removed for the first time, your elective cosmetic plastic surgeon will probably recommend the most type of liposuction: tumescent. 

Contact a board-certified elective cosmetic plastic surgeon in your area today. He or she should be able to answer any questions you may have and ensure you get the type of procedure that is right for you and will help you look your best.