Are There Different Types of Liposuction? Answers to Common Liposuction Questions

If you’re like most US adults, you’re always looking for new and better ways to shed those extra pounds. From 2013 to 2016, 49.1% of American adults reported trying to lose weight over a 12 month period. These adults tried exercising, restricting calories, and upping their consumption of fibrous fruits and veggies. For most people, though, calorie restriction and vigorous exercise aren’t sustainable. It’s challenging to make long-term changes when you can’t see immediate results. That’s why you need to know about the different types of liposuction.

Liposuction is a quick procedure with incredible weight loss results. Liposuction removes stubborn fat cells for good and doesn’t lead to weight gain in other parts of the body.

Have we piqued your interest in liposuction procedures? Liposuction procedures may be nearly half a century old, but most people don’t know much about it.

Check out these frequently asked liposuction questions and get in the know before you schedule your first appointment.

Are There Different Types of Liposuction?

There are currently four different types of liposuction procedures you can get: tumescent liposuction, the super-wet technique, ultrasound-assisted liposuction, and laser-assisted liposuction.

The super-wet liposuction technique injects small volumes of fluid into the body. This fluid contains a numbing agent, a blood vessel contractor, and a salt solution. The surgeon then sucks out the fat using the fluid’s ingredients for a quicker and relatively pain-free procedure.

Tumescent liposuction is almost the same as super-wet liposuction. The difference is that the super-wet technique uses less fluid than tumescent liposuction. This type of liposuction is the most common, but it also takes more time.

Laser-assisted liposuction liquefies fat cells using lasers. The surgeon vacuums out the cells or the liquid drains through a series of tubes. This type of liposuction works best for acute areas like the face, chin, or neck.

Ultrasound-assisted liposuction liquefies fat in the same way as laser-assisted, but it does so with ultrasonic vibrations instead of lasers. It’s perfect for adults who want to lose a bit of stubborn fat fast and can be used on all areas of the body such as the stomach, thighs, love handles, and neck. It’s also a great route to take when treating gynecomastia (a feminine male chest), and safely collecting the good fats without damaging them when transferring fat to the buttocks or breasts.

At Premier Liposuction, we use Vaser; minimally invasive, ultrasound-assisted liposuction. This is an advanced form of liposuction used to gently remove excess, unwanted fat from the body. This is more of a body sculpting procedure that helps tighten the skin at the same time as suctioning out the fat.

Do I Have to Be Obese to Get Liposuction?

No! Whether you’re slightly overweight or a healthy adult with a few pounds of fat to shed, liposuction will work for you. Liposuction helps you look more toned and can get rid of fat in those stubborn areas like the lower belly, arms, or inner thighs.

The only people who are typically not ideal candidates for liposuction are those with cardiovascular problems, heart disease, diabetes, poor immune response, or not within 30% of a healthy weight.

Is Liposuction Painful?

Old-school liposuction was known for being painful since it used force to dislodge stubborn fat cells. Modern methods use minimally invasive, gentler techniques.

Ultrasound-assisted liposuction, which we use at Premier Liposuction, is relatively painless. You will be awake during the procedure and may only experience a slightly uncomfortable tugging feeling.

After the procedure, you may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. However, this usually dissipates after a day or two, if not sooner.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

This depends on the type of liposuction you decide to go with. With Vaser technology, many patients can return to work the day after a liposuction procedure. However, we recommend at least 48 hours of recovery time before returning to school or work.

We advise patients to avoid exercising for at least one week. After a week, you can resume gentle exercise. Avoid performing strenuous activities like weight lifting for at least two weeks.

Since liposuction is minimally invasive, you also won’t have to worry about damaging anything during sex. If this is a concern for you, make sure to talk to your surgeon before your procedure. We will also talk with you about this and any other concerns you may have during your free consultation.

Will I See Results Immediately?

Many patients report seeing results immediately after liposuction. Keep in mind that any swelling you may experience could hide the results, so it may take a few days after your operation to notice changes. It’s important to note that with Vaser liposuction, which is the method we use, you’ll experience much less swelling and bruising than you would with traditional liposuction.

Most patients report seeing at least 80–90% of their desired results achieved within 6–8 weeks, which typically falls within the window of your second follow-up visit. For the final results, most patients have to wait three to six months.

How Do I Choose the Right Surgeon?

Liposuction can be a significant investment, so you will want a professional who knows what they’re talking about, and makes you feel comfortable.

Liposuction can also be quite personal. You’ll want to vet out your surgeon before going in for your first visit. Make sure you feel safe and comfortable with both your surgeon and their staff.

Keep in mind that not all surgeons operate in the same way. The best doctors have their own style of liposuction. You may want to browse the surgeon’s previous client results before making your final decision.

Premier Liposuction Services in Las Vegas

Now that we’ve answered your questions about what to expect from the different types of liposuction, are you ready to get the results you’ve always wanted? At Premier Liposuction in Las Vegas, we want to help.

Our medical surgeons are experts in helping patients feel more comfortable in their skin. Are you ready to get the body of your dreams? Book a free consultation today!