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Ultrasonic liposuction plastic surgery
To get answers to the most frequent questions about ultrasonic
liposuction cosmetic surgery, please select one of the links below:
What is internal ultrasonic liposuction?
Ultrasonic liposuction, (Ultrasound Assisted Lipoplasty) or "Ultrasound
Assisted Liposuction" (U.A.L.) is a technique of liposuction
where the fatty tissue is removed with the assistance of sound
waves which are beyond the range of human hearing. Because the
sound waves are doing the work the surgeon is able to more precisely
guide the cannula. This increases safety. The ultrasonic energy
is targeted to fat cells and creates less damage to other tissues
such as nerves, blood vessels and muscles.
How long has ultrasonic liposuction been available?
Ultrasonic liposuction began in Europe in the early 90s and became
popular in the United States in early 1997.
Who should perform ultrasonic liposuction?
In Dr. O'Connell's opinion, ultrasonic liposuction should only
be performed by a surgeon who has obtained training in
this technique. As with all plastic surgical procedures, the surgeon's
experience and continuing education also are important for safety
and quality.
In January, 1997 Dr. O'Connell became the first plastic surgeon
in Connecticut to obtain formal training in ultrasonic liposuction.
He is greatly experienced with this technique and has lectured
at Yale University and at the Massachusetts Society of Plastic
Surgeons on this subject.
What are the benefits of ultrasonic liposuction?
Ultrasonic liposuction facilitates a more complete removal of
fat from certain areas of the body known as "fibrous areas."
These areas include the abdomen, back, male chest and hips.
Ultrasonic liposuction allows for more complete fat removal with
less blood loss and less damage to surrounding tissues. Ultrasound
Assisted Liposuction can be used in other areas as well.
One advantage of ultrasonic liposuction is increased skin shrinkage
compared to traditional liposuction. This is especially important
in the abdominal area where loose skin is often present following
pregnancy or changes in weight.
It is said that there is less bruising and swelling following
ultrasonic liposuction compared to traditional liposuction, although
this is controversial in Dr. O'Connell's opinion.
Ultrasonic liposuction also facilitates fat removal from areas
that have already been treated by liposuction in the past.
Many physicians believe that ultrasonic liposuction yields a
smoother contour when compared with traditional liposuction.
- View
photos of ultrasonic liposuction plastic surgery - Patient #1
- View photos of ultrasonic
liposuction plastic surgery - Patient #2
- View photos of ultrasonic
liposuction plastic surgery - Patient #3
- View photos of ultrasonic
liposuction plastic surgery - Patient #4
- View photos of ultrasonic
liposuction plastic surgery - Patient #5
- View
photos of ultrasonic liposuction plastic surgery - Patient #6
- View photos of ultrasonic
liposuction plastic surgery - Patient #7
Does Dr. O'Connell still perform traditional
liposuction?
Yes. Ultrasonic liposuction is a tool and should not be indiscriminately
applied. Dr. O'Connell often uses traditional liposuction in the
face, neck, knees and in situations where very small corrections
are needed.
Read answers to frequently questions about traditional
liposuction, lipostructure, and liposculpture.
Does ultrasonic liposuction cost more?
Because of the added cost of the equipment, some of which is
disposable, most plastic surgeons charge slightly higher fees
for ultrasonic liposuction. Because Dr. O'Connell often combines
traditional and ultrasonic liposuction to obtain the maximum benefit
for each patient, there is only minimal added cost.
What type of anesthesia is used for ultrasonic
liposuction?
The same types of anesthesia can be used for either traditional
or Ultrasonic Assisted Liposuction. Dr. O'Connell prefers to perform
all types of liposuction with a modified "tumescent"
technique which does not require general, spinal or epidural anesthesia.
For your safety, monitored anesthesia care is provided in most
instances by a Board Certified Anesthesiologist.
This is sometimes referred to as "twilight" anesthesia.
Where is ultrasonic liposuction performed?
Dr. O'Connell currently performs most procedures utilizing ultrasound
assisted lipoplasty in surgical
facilities at Plastic Surgery of Southern Connecticut.
Are there risks associated with ultrasonic liposuction?
As with all surgical procedures there are risks and potential complications some of which are exclusive to ultrasonic liposuction. A thorough consideration of all risks, alternatives and potential benefits is an important part of the pre-operative consultative process.
To contact Connecticut plastic surgeon Dr. Joseph B. O'Connell about any cosmetic surgery procedures, please fill out
our contact form or call us at (203)
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Plastic Surgery of Southern Connecticut
208 Post Road West • Westport, CT 06680
Phone: 203-454-0044 • Email: jbomd@aol.com
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