Liposuction has long been a popular cosmetic procedure for individuals seeking to contour their bodies and remove stubborn fat deposits. Since traditional liposuction was first created, various techniques have been developed, each with unique advantages and considerations. This blog explores the different types of liposuction, including VASER ultrasound liposuction, laser liposuction (SMART and SLIM liposuction), water jet liposuction, vibratory or "tickle" liposuction, Trisculpt liposuction, and Airsculpt liposuction. It's essential to understand that each technique has its benefits and drawbacks, and the plastic surgeon's expertise plays a crucial role in achieving optimal results.

It can be difficult to know what type of lipo is right for you, especially when so many non-plastic surgery practices and physicians are offering lipo at loss-leader pricing that oftentimes feels tempting. Now more than ever, it's vital that you have a thorough understanding of the type of lipo best suited for you.

Most importantly, please make sure to verify your surgeon's skills and experience with body contouring. Of course, we're going to tell you to always select a board-certified plastic surgeon because they've put in the work to be top-level in their craft. Make sure you have thoroughly vetted your provider's practice philosophy and lipo results, which should be supported with plenty of before and after photos and patient reviews. Ok, let's dive in!

VASER (Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance) ultrasound liposuction uses ultrasonic waves to emulsify fat cells, making them easier to remove. This technique allows for precise targeting of fat while sparing surrounding tissues, such as nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue.

Advantages

-Minimally invasive with less tissue trauma giving you a somewhat easier recovery with less downtime overall.

-You'll experience skin firming that you won't get with other lipo modalities thanks to the heat generated by ultrasonic waves.

-VASER® works well for effectively treating fibrous areas that are difficult to contour with other lipo methods. This makes VASER® the first choice for treating areas like the back and in male breast reduction (gynecomastia).

-The cannula used in VASER® is significantly smaller and prevents contour irregularities that sometimes result from the larger cannulas used in traditional lipo.

-We can create/define muscle contouring using a technique called "etching" or micro-sculpting.

-More powerful than laser-assisted liposuction. 

Disadvantages

-While not a disadvantage, performing VASER requires specialized equipment and training.

-When used inappropriately, a patient can experience burns or injury from the ultrasonic energy. More reason to select a trained, experienced board-certified plastic surgeon.

Learn More: Avoiding Trendy Lipo- Why Elegant Lipo is Better
Read More: VASER®: The Hi-definition Difference

Laser-Assisted Liposuction: SMART and SLIM Liposuction

Laser liposuction devices, including SMART (SmartLipo) and SLIM (SlimLipo), use laser energy to liquefy fat cells, which are then suctioned out. The laser also stimulates collagen production, promoting skin tightening.

Advantages

-Laser-assisted liposuction has dual benefits of fat removal and skin firming that are sufficient for patients with minimal skin laxity.

-Laser-based lipo minimizes bruising and swelling like VASER®, reducing downtime for many.

Disadvantages

-Potential for skin burn or thermal injury.

-Effectiveness depends on the skill and experience of the provider.

-SmartLipo is not always suitable for large-volume fat removal.

-Less powerful than ultrasound-assisted liposuction

Read More: Male Liposuction: How It's Different

Water Jet Liposuction

Water jet liposuction, or Body-Jet or water-assisted liposuction procedure large-volume, uses a high-pressure saline solution to gently loosen fat cells. The fat is then suctioned out simultaneously with the saline solution.

Advantages

Gentle on surrounding tissues, resulting in less bruising and swelling.

Disadvantages

-May be less effective for large-volume fat removal.

-It's more difficult for plastic surgeons to evaluate the endpoint of the procedure since the water in the tissues causes swelling.

-Requires specialized equipment and training.

-Results may vary depending on the provider's expertise.