What is Power Assisted or Electronic Liposuction?


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Power assisted or electronic liposuction is similar to traditional liposuction in that the fat is broken down using the cannula. However, unlike in traditional liposuction where it is the manual effort of the surgeon that breaks down the fat, in power assisted liposuction the cannula has an electronic device, which automatically breaks down the fat.

Power Assisted Liposuction Procedure

Power assisted liposuction is normally performed whilst you are under a local anaesthetic, although it is possible that you will be given a general anaesthetic if you are anxious, the treatment area is sensitive, or a large amount of fat is being removed. The local anaesthetic will be inserted in the form of tumescent fluid, which numbs the area and prevents blood loss by closing the blood vessels.

Once you have been anaesthetised, a small incision will be made in the treatment area. The cannula will be inserted into your body through this incision. Instead of the surgeon pulling the cannula backwards and forwards, as in traditional liposuction, the mechanical tip of the cannula uses rapid vibrations to break down the fat. The fat is the removed using a suction device.

Benefits of Power Assisted Liposuction

There are several benefits of power assisted liposuction over traditional liposuction. For example, a smaller incision can be created, as the cannula is narrower. This means that recovery time is quicker and scarring is reduced. It also means that there is less of a chance of infection during and after the procedure.

The smaller incision and thinner cannula means that the surgeon can be more precise in targeting the fat. This means that they can create smoother, more accurate results. It also means that they can target specific pockets of fat allowing them to sculpt your body into a more natural shape.

As less force is used during the procedure and the surgeon can be more accurate there is less trauma to the skin and surrounding tissues. This means that there is less bruising and the recovery time is quicker and less uncomfortable. This also makes the treatment cost effective, as there is no need for pro- longed time off work.

Power assisted liposuction is also beneficial as it carries less of a risk than other liposuction treatments. This is because it is a quick treatment meaning that there is a lower chance of infection or deep vein thrombosis. It also causes less tissue damage meaning that blood loss is lower.

Disadvantages of Power Assisted Liposuction

There are also some disadvantages of power assisted liposuction and more modern techniques such as vaser liposuction are now considered to be less of a risk. Power assisted liposuction can cause pain, discolouration, bleeding, bruising, and swelling. There is also a risk from the tumescent fluid, which contains lidocaine and can be toxic if large amounts are injected.

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