Liposuction devices: technology update

Abstract

Since its introduction by Illouz and others over 30 years ago, suction-assisted lipectomy/liposuction/lipoplasty has evolved tremendously and has developed into one of the most popular procedures in aesthetic plastic surgery. Liposuction is an effective procedure employed to treat localized adipose deposits in patients not suffering from generalized obesity. These accumulations of subcutaneous fat often occur in predictable distributions in both men and women. A cannula connected to a suction-generating source allows for small incisions to be strategically placed and large volumes of fat to be removed. This fat removal leads to improved harmonious balance of a patient’s physique and improved body contour. Various surgical techniques are available and have evolved as technology has improved. Current technology for liposuction includes suction-assisted lipectomy, ultrasound-assisted, power-assisted, laser-assisted, and radiofrequency-assisted. The choice of technology and technique often depends on patient characteristics and surgeon preference. The objective of this review is to provide a thorough assessment of current technologies available to plastic surgeons performing liposuction.

New Body Contouring Technique in Male: The Muscular Sculpture

“…Nowadays, a growing patient demand for a youthful appearance with a favorable body shape has led to the recent development of new body contouring techniques and surgical devices; however, some devices are timeconsuming procedures with a high learning curve, which are appropriate only for highly experienced surgeons [8][9][10][11][12].…”

Autologous fat transplantation for breast reconstruction: A literature review

“…Recently new methods of lipoaspiration have been developed such as suction- or power-assisted, laser-assisted, and ultrasound-assisted liposuction. These techniques were developed with the goal of achieving rapid tissue harvest, promoting skin tightening, and minimizing harvest-site morbidity [70]. Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL), is gaining popularity for its ability to improve the process of lipoaspiration, by decreasing blood loss and tissue trauma [71].…”

“…Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL), is gaining popularity for its ability to improve the process of lipoaspiration, by decreasing blood loss and tissue trauma [71]. During UAL, a specialized probe or cannula is used that transmits ultrasound vibrations into the fat tissue [70]. The vibrations lead to emulsification of the fat, making it easier to remove [72].…”

Multimodal Imaging and Theranostic Application of Disease-Directed Agents

“…14 [54]. Frequencies greater than 16 kHz are used to cause cavitation specifically within fat tissue, causing a breakdown of cellular structure [55]. The fat cells are then suctioned out.…”

“…The fat cells are then suctioned out. The fat cell cavitation with US-assisted liposuction (UAL) decreases blood loss, operative time, bruising, and discomfort particularly in fibrotic areas like the chest and side [55]. However, UAL patients have an increased risk of burns and will need to have larger incisions [55].…”