Liposuction is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of fat from various parts of the body. It is performed on people who want to lose stubborn inches of flab.
 
The traditional liposuction method is called tumescent liposuction, and it involves making incisions in the skin and using a vacuum tube to suction out fat and fluid.
 
A new and exciting method, Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction (UAL), has been gaining in popularity due to its advantages over tumescent lipo. This technique makes use of ultrasound energy.
 
In this procedure, Dr. Wallace makes a small incision and then inserts a device that emits ultrasound energy. This energy gently ruptures the fat cells in the affected area. The fat thus gets liquefied, making removal much easier.
 

The Benefits of UAL over Traditional Liposuction

 
UAL has a number of advantages over tumescent lipo. First, UAL is a more precise method of removing fat. Since it liquefies the excess fat cells, removal of the fat becomes easier for the surgeon. They do not have to dislodge the stubborn cells, a process which can cause damage to the surrounding tissues.
 
Because damage is minimized to the surrounding tissues, there is a reduction in the amount of post-surgical bruising and swelling, making the recovery process faster and more comfortable.
 
UAL works very well in areas of the body where the fat deposits are dense. The mid-stomach, love handles, chin, and neck are all areas where UAL can work very well. It is particularly helpful for removal of fat rolls. These are composed of fibrous tissues, which are harder to remove. UAL helps to remove these fat rolls more effectively.
 
Since ultrasound energy heats the skin tissues during this procedure, this helps to tighten the skin. Removal of fat can result in excess sagging skin, and heat increases skin contraction to help it shrink and better fit the new contours of the area.
 
UAL is also advantageous in that it is able to remove larger volumes of fat in one sitting, making the overall process more convenient for the patient.
 

The UAL Procedure

 
To undergo ultrasound-assisted liposuction, you will first need to get in touch with Dr. Wallace for a consultation. He will examine your trouble areas and ask you about your medical history. He will also ask you to stop taking any medicines that thin the blood for a few days before the procedure.
 
At the start of the procedure, tumescent fluid is injected into the area being targeted for fat removal. This fluid contains local anesthetic to numb the region, a saltwater solution, and epinephrine to prevent fluid loss.
 
Dr. Wallace then makes a small incision and inserts a cannula. Through this cannula, he delivers powerful waves of ultrasonic energy. The energy destroys the walls of the fat cells by liquefying them. Once this is done, Dr. Wallace suctions out the liquefied fat through the cannula.
 
Once the procedure is done, Dr. Wallace closes the incision. Unless the area affected is very large or if you have other health conditions, you can go home the same day, since it is typically an outpatient procedure.
 
Dr. Wallace may advise you to rest for a couple of days and take off from work. You may be asked to do walking or moderate exercise to avoid the formation of blood clots during the healing process.
 

The Results of UAL Treatment

 
The effects of UAL may take a couple of weeks to be apparent. You will need to come in for follow-up visits to Dr. Wallace to ensure that there are no complications. Once the healing is complete, you can see the results for yourself.
 

Make an Appointment to See Dr. Wallace

 
Dr. Charles Wallace, a board-certified plastic surgeon, will be happy to tell you more about the procedure during a consultation. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment.