Liposuction is one of the most popular procedures performed by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Brian S. Glatt, MD, FACS. In fact, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery liposuction has surpassed breast augmentation as the most popular procedure in the United States.
Many people have heard the terms “Liposculpture”, “Liposelect”, “Laser Lipo”, and “SmartLipo”. Studies performed and published in plastic surgery literature show no difference among various liposuction modalities. These terms are heavily marketed by those who have purchased the “brand named” devices and unfortunately the techniques have been shown to produce no distinct advantage over more standard techniques.
There are two basic types of liposuction (also referred to as lipoplasty or lipectomy), which are tried and true, SAL (Suction Assisted Liposuction) and UAL (Ultrasonic Assisted Liposuction).
SAL is the removal of fat from the body through the assistance of some form of suction. Dr. Glatt performs SAL while utilizing the tumescent technique, also known and the “wet” or “super wet” technique. Tumescence is a treatment administered just prior to the actual suction and involves the infusion of saline with a local anesthetic which magnifies the fat layer, making it easier to remove. By including tumescence with SAL Dr. Glatt is able to utilize smaller incisions during the procedure, and the safety and comfort of the surgery is enhanced.
The second type of liposuction, UAL, uses high-frequency energy from ultrasound to “liquefy” and dislodge fat cells prior to suctioning. Dr. Glatt often performs UAL in conjunction with SAL to improve both removal of fat and selective sculpting of the area.
Liposuction can be used to remove excess fat from areas of the body including the abdomen, thighs, flanks, hips, upper arms, chest and buttocks. Even excess fat of the neck, chin and jowls can be treated using this technique.
Liposuction is an integral part of a “mommy makeover” and is often performed in combination with abdominoplasty, breast reduction or breast lift to enhance the results of these procedures.
To discuss if you are a candidate for liposuction surgery call the Morristown office of Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Brian S. Glatt, MD, FACS at 973-889-9300.