Ask a Surgeon - Liposuction - I would like to know if the new procedure, power liposuction, could be done...

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I would like to know if the new procedure, power liposuction, could be done without...

Q:

I would like to know if the new procedure, power liposuction, could be done without it being major surgery, and without my being put to sleep. I would be more inclined to consider it if this is in fact true.

A:

In power-assisted liposuction (PAL) the surgeon uses a vibrating cannula or tube. The vibration eases passage through the fat and helps to dislodge it, permitting the surgeon to remove more fat and sculpt the tissues with more finesse. I believe the method is also gentler and less traumatic for the patient. PAL can be performed with a local anesthesia. Whether powered-liposuction is considered major surgery or not depends on how much fat is removed, or if additional surgical procedures are performed. Liposuction is a surgical procedure and is subject to complications as with any surgery. If liposuction is performed by a properly trained, board certified plastic surgeon, however, it is a safe procedure with gratifying results.