Believe it or not, there are different methods that patients can take with a liposuction procedure. Depending what patients prefer, what the doctor recommends and what fits best, methods include tumescent, SmartLipo (or laser liposuction) or fat grafting.
Tumescent liposuction uses a numbing fluid to plump out the areas of unwanted fat, and with a small cannula, the fat is suctioned. Normally, traditional liposuction uses general or heave anesthetic for sedation and then uses larger cannulas and may result in bruising and a longer recovery. Tumescent liposuction (if done right) will be least risky of bruising and will have a shorter period of recovery.
SmartLipo or laser liposuction describes the method of using a laser along with regular or tumescent liposuction. Generally, a little more fat is removed and is a quicker recovery. We love SmartLipo!
Fat grafting is when fat is taken out and grafted to another area. Gentle liposuction is used first, usually from the thighs or abdomen and is injected in small droplets to the face, hands or breasts. After fat is injected, the body quickly builds a vascular network to support, making it permanently attached to the “new” part of the body.
With any of these procedures, it is always required to maintain a steady diet and exercise habit in order to keep your body shape after a liposuction procedure. Consult your board-certified plastic surgeon for the best option for you.