There are just a few different liposuction techniques. But what they all have in common is the use of a thin tube, called a cannula, connected to a vacuum to suction the fat from your body.
- Tumescent liposuction is the most common technique using local anesthesia. Dr. Melanie Carreon injects a sterile solution into the area where the fat is to be removed. It consists of saline -- which is salt water - along with lidocaine and epinephrine. The solution makes it easier to suction the fat with less blood loss and pain.
- Ultrasound-assisted liposuction, or UAL, uses sound waves energy under your skin to rupture the cell walls of the fat. This liquefies the fat so it can be suctioned out.
- Laser-assisted liposuction, or SmartLipo, uses a laser to produce a burst of energy to liquefy the fat.
How Long Is Recovery?
This is performed in our AAAHC Accredited Outpatient Surgical Center. But you should expect bruising, swelling, and soreness for a few weeks.
We require to wear a compression garment for a few months after surgery to control swelling.
You'll also have to take some antibiotics to prevent infection. Most people can return to work within a few days and get back to normal activities within 2 weeks. But every person is different.