Glossary of Cosmetic Plastic Surgery and Laser Terms
Liposuction
Liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic plastic surgery procedures. Liposuction, also known as lipoplasty, or suction lipectomy, removes excess fat deposits to help contour and reshape the body. Areas to consider for liposuction are submental (under the chin), arms, male breasts (gynecomastia), abdomen, mons pubis (the pubic mound), love handles (flanks), buttocks, hips, inner and outer thighs, knees, and ankles. Liposuction is sometimes called Tumescent Liposuction, referring to the saline solution that is used. The tumescent solution is a mixture of epinephrine, lidocaine, and normal saline. The epinephrine causes vaso-constriction so that blood loss is very minimal. The lidocaine numbs the area. First, a tiny incision is made in an inconspicuous place near the fat deposit. For example, if the submental (under the chin) area is to be liposuctioned, a tiny incision is made at the base of each ear lobe and another under the chin. The tumescent solution is infused into the fatty tissue layer through the small hidden incisions. The solution is left in the area for about fifteen to twenty minutes for the epinephrine and lidocaine to work.
Then the fat is suctioned away via a thin metal tube called a cannula hooked to a gentle vacuum pump. Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL) uses ultrasonic energy (sound waves) to liquefy excess fat prior to suctioning. It causes the fat cells to break apart and emulsify into the infustion fluid. Ultrasound is very helpful to use in areas where the fat is fibrous, such as male breasts (gynecomastia) or dowager’s hump. Vaser Liposuction, also known as Vaser LipoSelection, uses a newer ultrasonic technology that is tissue-selective. The ultrasound energy targets unwanted fat, but preserves other surrounding tissues such as nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue, to promote smooth contours and rapid healing. An elastic compression garment is worn under the clothes for about a month after surgery. The garment helps to minimize swelling and aids in the retraction and redraping of the skin.
Call FACESplusTM at 858-453-7224 to learn more about cosmetic surgery, lasers, and non-surgical options.
